20 Crazy Ways to Save Money

One of the most popular crazy ways to save money is by dumpster diving. This involves searching through dumpsters and trash cans for discarded items that can be reused or resold. While it may sound gross or unappealing, many people have found valuable items such as furniture, electronics, and clothing that they can use or sell for a profit.

Another one of the crazy ways to save money is by living in a tiny house. Tiny houses are small, mobile homes that are typically less than 500 square feet in size. They are designed to be affordable and energy-efficient, and they can be customized to fit the needs of the homeowner. While living in a tiny house may not be for everyone, it can be a great way to save money on housing expenses and live a more minimalist lifestyle.

Dumpster Diving

Dumpster diving is a unique way to save money. It involves searching through dumpsters for items that can be reused or resold. Many people have been able to make a living or supplement their income through this practice. However, it is important to note that dumpster diving can be illegal in some areas, so it is important to research local laws before attempting it.

Those who are interested in dumpster diving should take precautions to ensure their safety. They should wear gloves and sturdy shoes to protect themselves from sharp objects or hazardous materials. It is also important to avoid diving in dumpsters that contain food waste or other unsanitary items.

Despite the risks, dumpster diving can be a great way to find valuable items for free. Some people have even found brand new electronics or designer clothing in dumpsters. Additionally, many stores and restaurants throw away perfectly good items that are simply no longer needed, such as furniture or kitchen appliances. Read some more of the crazy ways to save money.

Living in a Van or RV

Living in a van or RV may seem like an unconventional lifestyle, but it can be an effective way to save money. With no rent or mortgage payments, van or RV dwellers can significantly reduce their monthly expenses.

According to Money Under 30, the cost of living in a van can range from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars, depending on the level of customization and upgrades. However, even with the initial investment, van or RV living can still be a cost-effective option.

Van or RV dwellers can save money on housing, but they may need to consider other costs such as gas, maintenance, and camping fees. To reduce these expenses, van or RV dwellers can boondock, which means camping for free on public lands or in designated areas.

Van or RV living may not be for everyone, but for those willing to embrace the lifestyle, it can be a way to save money and live a simpler, more minimalist life.

Eating Only One Meal a Day

One of the crazy ways to save money is by eating only one meal a day. This is a form of intermittent fasting which restricts calorie consumption during a certain window of time. It may support weight loss and provide other health benefits.

Intermittent fasting can be done in different ways, such as eating within an 8-hour window and fasting for the other 16 hours, or eating only one meal a day (OMAD). OMAD takes intermittent fasting to another level, as it involves eating only one large meal per day and fasting for the other 23 hours.

OMAD can be challenging, especially for those who are used to eating three meals a day. However, it can also be a way to simplify meal planning and save money on groceries. By eating only one meal a day, you can also reduce food waste and focus on high-quality, nutrient-dense foods.

Using Cloth Toilet Paper

Some people are choosing to use cloth toilet paper as a way to save money and reduce waste. This alternative to traditional toilet paper involves using washable and reusable cloth wipes.

While it may seem like an odd choice, cloth toilet paper can save money in the long run by eliminating the need to constantly purchase disposable toilet paper. Additionally, it can help reduce waste and be more environmentally friendly.

Using cloth toilet paper requires a bit of extra effort, as the wipes need to be washed after each use. However, many people find that the extra effort is worth it for the cost savings and environmental benefits.

Reusing Dental Floss

Reusing dental floss may seem like a strange idea, but it is a money-saving hack that some people swear by. According to DentalEHub.com, it is possible to reuse dental floss by following a few simple steps.

• After flossing, rinse the floss under hot water to remove any debris.
• Apply soap to the floss and rub it between your fingers to clean it.
• Rinse the floss again and then soak it in hydrogen peroxide or mouthwash for a few minutes to kill any bacteria.
• Hang the floss up to dry or store it in a clean, dry container.

By reusing dental floss, you can save money on buying new floss and help the environment by reducing waste. However, it is important to note that reusing floss may not be the most hygienic option. As Modern Guru points out, floss is made from non-biodegradable materials and can harbor bacteria.

Overall, while reusing dental floss may be a creative way to save money, it is important to weigh the potential health risks before deciding to try it out.

Collecting Rainwater

Collecting rainwater is an excellent way to save money on your water bill while conserving water. There are many ways to collect rainwater, from rain barrels to rain chains, and even using everyday household items.

DIY rain barrel systems are a popular option and can be built easily with just a few materials. Rain chains can be used to collect rainwater in a decorative way, and diverters can be installed to direct rainwater from your gutters to a storage unit.

Conserving rainwater is not only cost-effective, but it is also better for your plants. Rainwater has a unique pH and higher levels of nitrogen and oxygen, which helps to boost plant growth.

Overall, collecting rainwater is a simple and effective way to save money and conserve water.

Skipping Showers

Skipping showers may sound like a crazy way to save money, but it can actually help reduce your water bill. According to CNET, showering daily can cost a significant amount of money, especially if you live in an area with high water rates.

Of course, skipping showers altogether is not a practical solution. However, reducing your shower frequency to every other day or every few days can help you save money on your water bill. Plus, it can be good for your skin and hair, as over-showering can strip away natural oils.

If you’re concerned about body odor, you can use alternative methods to stay fresh, such as using dry shampoo, body wipes, or simply washing with a washcloth and soap in between showers. It may take some getting used to, but it can be a small sacrifice to make for a lower water bill.

Using Public Bathrooms to Save Money

When trying to save money, it’s important to look for unconventional ways to cut costs. One option is to use public restrooms instead of your own at home. Not only does this save on water and toilet paper, but it can also help reduce your utility bills.

However, it’s important to be mindful of hygiene when using public restrooms. Always wash your hands thoroughly and consider carrying hand sanitizer or disinfectant wipes with you. Additionally, try to avoid peak times to minimize the risk of encountering a dirty or overcrowded restroom.

If you’re uncomfortable using public restrooms, consider investing in a portable camping toilet. These can be used in your own home and can be emptied into public restrooms or other appropriate facilities.

Cutting Your Own Hair

Cutting your own hair is a simple way to save money. According to SavingExpert, you can save thousands of dollars by cutting your own hair. However, it’s not for everyone.

If you’re considering cutting your own hair, invest in a good pair of hair shears. Using the right scissors will make it easier to make even cuts. Blippr recommends using hair shears instead of kids’ craft scissors.

While it may seem daunting at first, cutting your own hair is not as difficult as it seems. Lifehacker reports that the Frugalwoods started cutting each other’s hair in 2015 and have saved thousands of dollars since then.

Doing Your Own Car Repairs

One way to save money on car repairs is to do them yourself. While it may seem daunting, there are a few repairs that are relatively easy to do with the right tools and instructions.

Some repairs that can be done at home include replacing the air filter, changing the oil and oil filter, and replacing the windshield wiper blades. Additionally, replacing brake pads and rotors can be done at home with the right tools and instructions.

It is important to note that not all repairs can be done at home and attempting to do so can be dangerous. It is important to research and understand the repair before attempting it and to seek professional help if unsure.

Using Expired Products to Save Money

Some people use expired products to save money. While this may seem like a good idea, it can be risky. Expired products can be harmful to your health and may not work as intended. However, there are some products that can be safely used after their expiration date.

For example, expired canned goods can be used as long as the can is not damaged, swollen, or leaking. Expired medications should not be used, but over-the-counter drugs like antacids and pain relievers can be used past their expiration date if they haven’t changed color or consistency.

It’s important to use caution when using expired products. Always check the expiration date before using a product, and if it’s expired, use your best judgement before deciding to use it.

Freezing Your Credit Card

Freezing your credit card is a drastic measure to save money, but it can be effective for those who struggle with overspending. By placing your credit card in a container of water and freezing it, you can prevent yourself from using it impulsively.

However, it’s important to note that this method is not foolproof. If you have the willpower to thaw the card and use it, you may still be able to make purchases. Additionally, if you have automatic payments set up on the card, they may be declined if the card is frozen.

Before resorting to freezing your credit card, consider other methods of controlling your spending, such as creating a budget or seeking help from a financial advisor.

Using Free Samples

One of the craziest ways to save money is by using free samples. Many companies offer free samples of their products to entice customers to buy more. You can find free samples of everything from food to beauty products to household items.

To get free samples, start by looking for them online. Many companies offer free samples on their websites or through social media. You can also visit your local stores and ask if they have any free samples available.

Using free samples can help you save money in a few ways. First, you can try out products before you buy them, which can help you avoid wasting money on products that don’t work for you. Second, you can use free samples to supplement your regular purchases, which can help you save money on the products you already use.

However, it’s important to be careful when using free samples. Some companies may require you to sign up for a subscription or provide personal information in order to receive a free sample. Be sure to read the terms and conditions carefully before signing up for anything.

Living off the Grid

Living off the grid can be a great way to save money in the long run. While it may require a significant initial investment, it can substantially reduce your long-term cost of living. Here are a few ways to get started:

• Invest in a suitably sized solar setup and backup power
• Install a water filtration and treatment system for your drinking water
• Create an eco-friendly toilet system
• Learn more primitive cooking skills and reduce your bills by making an off-grid kitchen

It’s important to note that living off the grid isn’t for everyone. It requires a significant lifestyle change and may not be feasible for those with certain medical needs or who require consistent access to technology. However, for those willing to make the necessary changes, it can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to live.

Don’t Flush Until It’s Brown

Some people take frugality to the extreme and will do anything to save a few cents. One of the most extreme ways to save money on water is to not flush the toilet until it’s absolutely necessary. This means only flushing when there’s solid waste in the bowl.

While this may be a tried and true method of frugality, it’s not for everyone. It can lead to unpleasant odors and unsanitary conditions. It’s also not the most environmentally friendly method of saving water.

If you’re looking for more practical ways to save money on your water bill, consider installing low-flow showerheads and faucets, fixing any leaks, and only running the dishwasher or washing machine when they’re full. These simple changes can add up to big savings over time.

Using a Composting Toilet

Using a composting toilet is a unique way to save money on water bills and help the environment. By mixing waste with other materials, composting toilets are able to eliminate odor and use significantly less water than the average flush toilet. Nearly 27% of the average American’s household water usage occurs when flushing toilets.

Composting toilets work by breaking down waste into compost, which can be used as fertilizer. They are designed to separate urine from solid waste, which helps to reduce odor and speed up the composting process. Composting toilets are easy to use and require minimal maintenance. They are a great option for those who live off the grid or want to reduce their environmental impact.

While composting toilets may not be for everyone, they are a cost-effective and environmentally-friendly option for those who are willing to make the switch. By using a composting toilet, individuals can save money on water bills and reduce their overall water usage. Plus, they are a great way to reduce waste and help the environment.

Wearing Clothes Until They Fall Off

Some people take frugality to the extreme by wearing clothes until they fall apart. This may seem like an unhygienic or unsightly option, but it can save a lot of money in the long run.

One way to make this option more feasible is to invest in high-quality clothing that is built to last. This may cost more upfront, but it can save money in the long run by reducing the need to constantly replace clothes.

Another option is to learn basic sewing skills and repair clothes when they start to show signs of wear and tear. This can extend the life of clothing and save money on replacements.

Using a Bike Instead of a Car

Switching from a car to a bike is a crazy but effective way to save money. According to Strong Towns, any mileage you put on your bike instead of your car saves you about 50 cents per mile in gas, depreciation, and wear and maintenance. Doing a couple of bike errands per day (4 miles) in place of car errands will add up to $10,752 over ten years.

Not only does riding a bike save money on gas, but it also saves money on insurance. According to Bike Commuter Hero, on a 20-mile round trip commute, you can save up to $1,500 on insurance alone.

Additionally, using a bike instead of a car saves taxpayers money by reducing road wear. According to Treehugger, a 20-pound bicycle is a lot less rough on the pavement than a two-ton sedan. Every bicycle on the road amounts to money saved patching up potholes and repaving roads.

Living in a Tiny House

Living in a tiny house can be a great way to save money. Tiny homes are typically less expensive to build or buy than traditional homes and cost less to maintain. Additionally, tiny homes often come with lower utility bills since they require less energy to heat and cool.

However, living in a tiny house is not for everyone. It requires downsizing your possessions and adjusting to a smaller living space. Some people may find it challenging to live in such close quarters with others, especially if they have children or pets.

If you’re considering living in a tiny house, research your options and think about your lifestyle needs. Consider building your own tiny house to save money on construction costs. Look for ways to cut costs, such as using recycled or salvaged materials for building and furnishing your tiny home.

Collecting and Selling Scrap Metal

Collecting and selling scrap metal can be a great way to earn some extra cash. Scrap metal can be found in various places, including old appliances, cars, and construction sites. Some people even collect aluminum cans to sell as scrap metal.

Before selling scrap metal, it’s important to research the current market value of the metal. Prices can vary depending on the type of metal, condition, and location. It’s also important to find a reputable scrap yard that offers fair prices.

When collecting scrap metal, it’s important to take safety precautions. Wear gloves and protective clothing, and be careful when handling sharp or heavy objects. It’s also important to get permission before taking scrap metal from someone else’s property.

Overall, collecting and selling scrap metal can be a profitable way to save money or earn extra income. It’s important to do research, take safety precautions, and find a reputable scrap yard to ensure a successful venture.

Conclusion

When it comes to saving money, there are plenty of crazy and unconventional ways to do so. From using family cloth to stocking up on condiments, there are many ways to cut back on expenses and put more money into your savings account.

However, it’s important to remember that not all money-saving tips are created equal. Some may work better for certain individuals than others, and some may not be feasible or sustainable in the long run. It’s important to carefully consider each tip and determine whether it is a good fit for your lifestyle and financial goals.

Ultimately, the key to successful money-saving is to find a balance between cutting back on expenses and maintaining a comfortable and enjoyable lifestyle. By being mindful of your spending habits and finding creative ways to save money, you can achieve your financial goals and build a secure future for yourself and your loved ones.