It’s been too long since our last “Save It” post, so here’s an updated, practical roundup of everyday things we choose not to buy—or ways we trim costs without feeling deprived. After years of living this way, many of these habits feel less like “giving up” and more like simplifying: smarter routines that save money and time while still keeping life pleasant.
Below is a practical list of the things we typically skip, along with short explanations so you can decide what might work for you. These choices let us reallocate spending to things we value more—project materials, organic produce, cable TV, or simply saving for the future—without any dramatic lifestyle upheaval.
- Meat only three or four nights a week: We cook vegetarian or simple meals on many nights—spaghetti, bean burritos, veggie stir-fries, homemade pizza, nachos, baked sweet potatoes with salad. These meals are satisfying, inexpensive, and easy to prepare.
- Fabric softener: We usually skip commercial fabric softeners. Sometimes we use a splash of vinegar in the rinse cycle, but most of the time we just tumble dry or hang clothes. We don’t notice a drop in comfort or softness.
- Dusting spray: Instead of aerosol sprays or polishes, we rely on microfiber cloths and a little water. It’s effective, chemical-free, and cheaper.
- Regular dry cleaning: We avoid routine trips to the dry cleaner by buying mostly machine- or hand-washable clothes. Once a year we take a few coats or blazers in, but not monthly.
- Professional dog grooming: Our dog has a short coat, so we bathe him at home and trim nails ourselves. At-home grooming works well for us and cuts recurring costs.
- Printed newspaper: We get news online and from public radio. Most publications offer digital formats, and streaming news or podcasts cover what we need without a paper subscription.
- Bottled water: We use a home water filter and refill reusable bottles like Klean Kanteens. It’s better for the environment and far less expensive than buying single-use bottles.
- Daily coffee shop visits: Instead of buying a daily latte, we make beverages at home. For example, chai made from a grocery-store mix yields multiple cups for the price of one café drink. We reserve café purchases for special occasions.
- Checked baggage fees: We aim to pack light and travel with carry-on only. Even with a dog or child we’ve managed to avoid checked bag fees, which saves money and time at the airport.
- Styling products like gel or mousse: I haven’t used those products since college. A simple wash-and-wear routine is cheaper and gentler on skin and scalp.
- Excess makeup: I keep a compact makeup kit and avoid collecting many shades of lipstick or eyeshadow. A smaller selection reduces impulse purchases and clutter.
- Creams and self-tanners: I’m comfortable with a natural, pale complexion, so expensive lotions or tanning products aren’t part of our routine. Simple sunscreen and gentle care are enough.
- Perfume or cologne: I prefer the clean scent of shampoo; John doesn’t wear cologne either. Skipping fragrances avoids an extra recurring purchase.
- Frequent haircuts and color treatments: We keep salon visits minimal. I trim my hair at home most of the time and get a professional cut only occasionally; John’s haircuts at home save us money too.
- Salon manicures and pedicures: I do my toes and usually leave my fingernails natural. Once or twice a year I’ll treat myself to a salon visit, but it’s not a regular expense.
- Personal gym membership for me: Gym time isn’t my preference, though John enjoys his membership. I walk, do bodyweight exercises, or use free resources instead.
- Frequent alcohol purchases: Alcohol is not a regular purchase in our household. John rarely drinks, and I might open a bottle of wine once or twice a year—often as a gift—so buying alcohol isn’t an ongoing cost.
- Disposable diapers: We use cloth diapers in many situations, which reduces the cost of disposables and generates less waste. It takes an upfront investment but pays off over time.
- Dedicated diaper bag: Instead of buying a separate designer diaper bag, I used a regular purse and kept a small stash of essentials in the car. It’s practical and saves money.
- Incandescent light bulbs: We’ve switched most fixtures to CFLs and LEDs. The bulbs cost more initially but save energy and money over time. We’re gradually replacing bulbs across the house as budgets allow.
- A second vehicle: For households where it’s possible, keeping one car can yield substantial savings on purchase costs, insurance, maintenance, and fuel. In our case, working from home makes one car feasible.
Choosing not to buy certain things allows us to spend more intentionally on what matters most to our family. It’s a balance: skip the small recurring costs and fund the big, meaningful purchases. What’s on your “skip it” list? Share your practical hacks—no judgment, just useful ideas.
Psst—this kind of content lives among many other money-saving posts on our blog category dedicated to saving money.