The Aussie Origin and Evolution of Book Week

Saving money is an essential part of managing personal finances.  By making small changes to your daily routine and adopting thrifty habits, you can save money without sacrificing your lifestyle.  Here are some of the thrifty methods we’ve developed over the years to save money around the home:

Save Money by Reducing Energy Consumption

The most effective way to save money around the home is to reduce energy consumption.  Insulate your home.  Utilise natural light during the day.  On a warm day, open windows on opposing sides of your home to cool it.  On a cool day, put on an extra layer of clothing and turn-off your heating system.  When using your heating system lower the thermostat setting.  Switch-off appliances at the wall when not in use.  Turn off the lights when leaving the room.  Better still, don’t use the lights unless necessary.  Switch to LED lighting.  Replace old appliances with energy efficient models.  Air-dry your laundry instead of using the clothes dryer.  If you have to use the clothes dryer, set it to the gentle cycle.  Use the washing machine, clothes dryer and iron during off-peak electricity times.  Lower the temperature setting on your kettle.

Save Money on Water and Energy Bills

Conserving water will save you money on both water and energy bills.  It’s eco-friendly too.  Use low-flow showerheads and turn off the tap while brushing your teeth.  Shorten your shower time and turn the water off while you’re lathering-up.  Use the water to rinse-off.  Fix any water leaks promptly and collect rainwater for watering plants.  Don’t use the dishwasher.  It’s more time, energy and water efficient to wash dishes by-hand.  Install a high-efficiency on-demand water heater.

Plan Meals and Grocery Purchases

Planning meals in advance is an excellent way to save money on groceries.  Reduce food waste by purchasing only what you need.  Create a weekly menu.  Make a shopping list and stick to it.  Avoid impulse purchases.  If you have the space, buy items with a longer shelf life in-bulk when they’re on-sale.  Cooking at home saves money and allows you to eat in a healthier manner.  Cook food in large batches and freeze it.  Use leftovers creatively to reduce food waste.  Limit eating-out and only order take-away for special occasions.

Home Grown and Preserved Food

Growing your own fruit, vegetables, and herbs is another method which will save you money.  Use pots if space is lacking.  You can also preserve excess produce by bottling or freezing it.  If you don’t have the space to store it, give it to friends and family.  They’d appreciate it!

Discounted and Secondhand Household Items

Significant savings can be made when it comes to purchasing big-ticket household items.  If you can delay your purchases to either the Black Friday or Boxing Day sales, you will benefit by the big savings to be made from the retail giants.  Discount stores, factory outlets, online platforms and second-hand shops can also offer you a wide range of quality items at substantially lower prices than many retail stores.

Purchase Preloved Clothes and Books

Purchase your children’s clothes and books from us.  We’ve got special occasions covered with themed clothes and books for Book Week, Christmas, Easter and Halloween.  We also stock recipie books for birthday parties.

Saving money doesn’t have to be daunting or restrictive.  By embracing the above methods and coming up with a few of your own, you will trim your expenses.  With some patience, practice and a keen eye, you’ll find unique and valuable items while keeping your budget intact.  Don’t forget that small changes add-up over time.  By continuing to make thrifty choices the more money you will save.

In our next article, we’re going to look at teaching our kids eco-friendly habits.  Until then, remember to look after your stuff and it will look after of you!

Cheers, David & Cath.