25 Frugal Ways to Stretch Everyday Products

As prices continue to rise, it is becoming increasingly important to find ways to stretch your budget. One often overlooked method is reducing the amount of certain products you use daily or creating a less expensive DIY version. Finding ways to stretch everyday products is one of the frugal habits which allows you to save more money than you think.

You can save money on some common household products by simply using less or changing how you use them.Let’s explore some examples.

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1. Toothpaste

Use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste rather than filling the entire toothbrush. You can effectively brush your teeth with this small amount of toothpaste. Additionally, when the tube seems empty, cut it open to get every last bit out.

2. Shampoo

Contrary to what advertisements often suggest, lathering up once is sufficient. Over-washing can strip your hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness and damage.

Get a good quality shampoo (I use Better Not Younger) and you won’t have to use as much as the watered down, lesser expensive brands. This not only saves shampoo but also keeps your hair healthier.

3. Conditioner

Apply conditioner only to the tips of your hair. The ends need more moisture, while the roots can become oily if over-conditioned. While showering, wash your hair first. Then, apply the conditioner to the tips of your hair.

Leave the conditioner in for an additional three to six minutes while you clean the rest of your body. Rinse out the conditioner just before exiting the shower. This method also helps in using less product while maintaining healthy hair.

4. Body Wash

Body wash can be expensive, so look for sales. Applying a quarter-sized amount to a washcloth instead of directly on your body allows you to use less while still getting clean. Start at the top and work your way down to maximize coverage and efficiency.

5. Makeup Wipes

When it comes to ways to stretch everyday products, try going old school. Removing makeup is all about the cleanser you use, not the applicator with which you apply it. Instead of using disposable makeup wipes, opt for a washcloth. It’s reusable and just as effective with the right cleanser.

6. Cotton Pads/Balls

Repurpose the cotton from medicine bottles for small tasks that require cotton pads or balls. It’s a free and makes use of materials you already have. This simple change can help you avoid buying extra cotton products.

7. Hand Soap

Using too much of a product, one of the ways to stretch everyday products, is often overlooked. Experts recommend using only ½ teaspoon of hand soap per wash. Foaming hand soap uses even less.

You can easily make DIY foaming soap.

Start by filling a foaming soap container a quarter of the way with Castile soap, add 10-20 drops of any essential oil (we like peppermint or lemon), and fill the rest with water.

8. Laundry Detergent

Most people are spending far more on doing laundry than they need to. In addition to only washing full loads and setting the washing machine to “cold wash/cold rinse”, simply using less detergent could cut the cost of doing laundry in half.

Although the back of the detergent container may urge you to use more, you only need 1-2 tablespoons of laundry detergent per load. Overusing detergent doesn’t clean your clothes better and can actually harm fabrics over time. Using the recommended amount ensures your clothes are clean and lasts longer.

9. Dryer Sheets

Line dry your clothes when possible. If you need to use a dryer, substitute wool dryer balls or a clean, dry towel dampened with a few sprays of distilled white vinegar to soften clothes.

10. Fabric Softener

Skip the fabric softener and use vinegar instead. Vinegar is a natural alternative that softens clothes without the harsh chemicals. It’s also much cheaper and can help reduce static cling.

11. Paper Towels

Cut paper towels in half or use napkins instead. Better yet, repurpose old t-shirts, towels, or sheets into reusable cloths. Cloths can be washed and reused multiple times, making them much more cost-effective alternative when compared to disposable paper towels.

12. Napkins

Switch to cloth napkins for daily use. If you attend events at work, ask for any leftover napkins, plates, silverware, or condiment packets to bring home. Cloth napkins are more durable and can be washed and reused many times.

13. Dish Soap

Using a pump dispenser for dish soap helps control the amount used. Typically, 1-2 teaspoons are sufficient for a sink full of dishes.

Alternatively, you can premix dish soap with water in a separate container and use that watered-down mixture for dishes. This method works particularly well if using a sponge applicator with an attached water reservoir, ensuring you only use a small amount of soap each time.

14. Cleaning Supplies

Use multipurpose cleaners in various ways to avoid buying different products for each task. Look for cleaners that can be diluted with water to extend their use even further.

15. Body Lotion

Apply it right after you get out of the shower and your skin is still slightly damp. It will absorb into your skin more effectively and you will use less of it.

16. Plastic Wrap

Cover bowls and plates with another plate instead of using plastic wrap. This is an eco-friendly and cost-effective solution. Investing in reusable silicone covers can also help you reduce your plastic use.

17. Air Fresheners

Air fresheners are not only often expensive, the scents are overwhelming and contain chemicals and additives that aren’t necessarily what you want to be consistently exposing your friends and family to.

Instead, make your own air fresheners using simple ingredients. Combine ¾ cup of water, 2 tablespoons of vodka, rubbing alcohol, or real vanilla extract, 10 drops of wild orange essential oil, and 8 drops of peppermint essential oil. DIY vanilla extract is easy and saves money.

Use in a diffuser or spray in the room. This DIY solution is cheaper and allows you to customize scents to your preference.

18. Bottled Water

While we do purchase bottled water when it’s deeply discounted, we use reusable bottles most of the time. If you are taking water in your lunch bag or backpack, be sure to choose high quality bottles that don’t leak when turned sideways.

19. Disposable Plates and Utensils

Invest in Melmac or other reusable dishes. Dollar stores often have sales on these items. Remember, summer clearance season is a great time to stock up.

20. Pre-portioned Foods

Buy larger packages of items like yogurt or chips and repackage them into smaller portions yourself is one of the practical ways to stretch everyday products. It’s more economical and reduces waste from single-serving packages. This method allows you to control portion sizes and save money.

21. Microwave Popcorn

Pop your own popcorn from kernels. This is cheaper and allows you to control the ingredients. Plus, homemade popcorn can be flavored exactly to your liking.

22. Coffee Filters

Invest in a permanent coffee filter. Use paper filters for crafts instead of tossing them. This is one of the often overlooked ways to stretch everyday products. However, it pays for itself in a short time.

23. Greeting Cards

Make your own greeting cards, call personally, or send an e-card to save on the cost of store-bought cards. Handmade cards add a personal touch and can be customized for any occasion. E-cards are quick, easy, and often free..

24. Batteries

Use rechargeable batteries for frequently used items. For things like smoke detectors, traditional batteries are still the better option since they are replaced less often. Rechargeable batteries are cost-effective and reduce waste over time.

25. Printer Paper

Go digital whenever possible. When you do print, reuse the backside of papers.

Implementing these tips can significantly cut your expenses on household items.

Related Posts to read next:

• 5 Frugal Habits that Save More Money Than You Think
• 31 Small, Frugal Habits That Save Money Around the House
• How to Lower Grocery Bills (Without Eating Ramen Every Night)
• 16 Habits to Avoid If You Want to Save Money Now

Your Turn!

What do you do to save money? Tell me about it in the comments.