August 24, 2025
Greetings!
Some money-saving ideas take planning, but others are just little habits you pick up and repeat until they become second nature. Today’s edition is all about those fast, easy hacks that don’t take much effort but can add up to real savings over time.
Here are a few of my favorites (and a couple of clever ones readers have shared).
Be Well,
Anisa
Be Well,
Anisa
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Stretch Your Dryer Sheets
One sheet doesn’t have to mean one load. Reuse them until they’re completely cleared of that fine waxy coating that fights static. You can easily get 4–5 rounds out of a single sheet.
Free Doggie Bags
If you walk your dog, check out neighborhoods or parks that provide free waste bags. One reader hasn’t bought a roll in six months thanks to this trick.
Repurpose Plastic Bags
Bread bags, produce bags, or grocery sacks — they all make great liners, storage bags, or trash bags for small bins.
Skip Restaurant Drinks
Ordering alcohol (or even soda) at a restaurant can double your bill. Stick with water and you’ll save a surprising amount over time.
Save Small Things
Paper clips, twist ties, and rubber bands are almost always thrown away — but they’re handy and basically free if you collect them instead of buying.
Use Student Discounts (Legitimately!)
If you or someone you know has a valid .edu email, you can unlock big discounts or even extended trials on software like Adobe. Always check if a student or educator plan exists before paying full price.
Make Pasta the Hero
A box of pasta for $4 can feed a family of six. Add sausage or ground beef and you’ve got a hearty meal for under $8. It’s simple, filling, and budget-friendly.
Stockpile Condiments
Grab those free ketchup, mustard, and soy sauce packets when you’re out. At home, squeeze them into your regular condiment bottles so guests are none the wiser.
Secondhand Finds
Thrift stores like Salvation Army are great for clothes, shoes, dishes, and more. You’ll pay a fraction of retail and sometimes score items that are brand new.
Drink More Water
It’s healthier and way cheaper than soda, juice, or iced tea. If you stick with water when dining out, that’s one less thing on the bill too.
In Closing...
Sometimes it’s not the big, dramatic savings moves that make the most difference — it’s the everyday swaps and habits. If you pick even one or two of these to stick with, you’ll see the payoff without really feeling deprived.
You Said It, We Saved It
In response to the
July 29th edition:
"I moved my checking and savings to a credit union last year. Fewer fees, better rates, and way less hassle." – Marla S.
"Our credit union approved us for a car loan when the big bank turned us down. They looked at us like people, not numbers." – Jim T.
Reply back to me with any comments on today's or past issues.
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