Let’s be honest—I’m frugal. Perhaps excessively so in some respects, but I prefer to view it as “living within my means.” You can label it as thrifty, economical, or simply penny-pinching, but my frugality has allowed my family to stay afloat while relying on a single, steady income for nearly two decades. While I’ve occasionally taken on part-time roles and have been freelance writing, it’s the careful management of our finances that has enabled us to avoid significant debt and maintain a relatively comfortable lifestyle. However, what constitutes comfort can vary widely from one family to another. Here are my truths about being a thrifty mom:
-
Ditch the Car Payments
Forget about that new car aroma and drive your vehicles until they practically give out. Remember, cars are a means of transport, not status symbols. Opting for slightly older, used models means that instead of sending hefty car payments to the bank, you’re essentially saving that cash for yourself. -
Embrace Hand-Me-Downs
I wore a stunning dress from a high-end retailer to a recent gathering, snagging it for just $5. The original price tag? Likely around $85. Thrift store shopping requires patience, but the rewards can be immense. For my kids, they wear whatever their older siblings outgrow until they’re ready to pick their own styles—especially when they have to spend their own money! -
Utilize Borrowing and Trading
With four active boys, keeping up with all the sports gear could have been too expensive. Instead, I borrow and trade with other parents. If someone needs cleats, I ask around before buying new, and I always offer my kids’ outgrown items in return. Many families are open to sharing; a little communication goes a long way. -
Cook at Home
Dining out for a family of four can easily exceed $50, but preparing a meal at home can cost under $10. Breaking the takeout habit is challenging, but it’s one of the fastest ways to boost your savings—and you might just shed a few pounds in the process. -
DIY Haircuts
Cutting your kids’ hair can save you a small fortune each year. With a pair of clippers for boys and shears for girls, you’re all set. There are fantastic online tutorials to guide you. If it feels daunting, there are budget-friendly salons available too. -
Watch for Hidden Food Expenses
While I don’t cut coupons, I find other ways to minimize food spending. Buying in bulk, steering clear of sugary drinks, and planning meals around weekly sales can significantly cut your grocery bills. And remember, simple meals like cereal nights are perfectly acceptable. -
The Latte Factor
Little expenses can add up quickly. For instance, purchasing a $4.75 coffee twice a week sums up to around $500 annually. If you can’t part with your coffee fix, consider trimming other small expenses, like expensive shampoos or dry cleaning. -
Learn to Repair
Over the past couple of years, we’ve managed to fix our dishwasher, washing machine, and hot water heater ourselves. With numerous online tutorials available, it’s incredible what you can learn. Instead of paying $350 for a repair, we spent only about $60 on parts. -
Treasure Hunts Online
Garage sales, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace can be goldmines. Before splurging on new furniture or major items, check these platforms—someone’s discarded item might be exactly what you need at a fraction of the cost. -
Value Character Over Possessions
When you finally have some extra cash, it’s tempting to treat yourself, and that’s perfectly fine. However, you’ll find greater fulfillment in using your savings to help those in need. Not only does it enrich the lives of others, but it also sets a wonderful example for your children.
By the way, that used car we drove for over 13 years and 285,000 miles? We donated it to a nonprofit organization when we could afford a replacement. Being frugal truly pays off.
For more insights on financial management and parenting, check out this post on home insemination kits. Also, if you’re interested in navigating your own fertility journey, Make A Mom offers excellent resources. Lastly, for those pondering artificial insemination and what to expect, Parents provides a wealth of information.
Summary:
Living frugally as a mom can be challenging, but it’s immensely rewarding. From opting for used cars to cooking at home, these ten tips demonstrate that being thrifty not only helps your finances but also sets a positive example for your children.