17 Extremely Frugal Ways To Save Money

Saving money doesn’t have to be boring or just about cutting out lattes and making a budget. When you’re serious about living frugally, it means taking things a step further—being intentional about every dollar you spend and finding creative ways to keep more of your hard-earned cash in your pocket. If you’re ready to take frugality to the next level, this list of 17 extremely frugal ways to save money will give you plenty of ideas to cut costs in surprising areas of your life.

From air-drying your clothes to embracing a zero-spend week, these methods might seem a little intense at first, but the payoff is worth it. Whether you’re looking to pay off debt, save for a big goal, or simply stop stressing over money, these extreme frugality tips can help. So, buckle up and get ready to rethink how you approach spending!

1. Embrace a Zero-Spend Week Challenge

A zero-spend week might sound intimidating at first, but it’s one of the best ways to challenge yourself and see just how much you rely on unnecessary purchases. The idea is simple: for an entire week, you don’t spend a single penny on anything outside of absolute essentials. That means no takeout, no impulse online buys, and no popping into a store “just to browse.”

During this week, you’ll start noticing just how many little purchases creep into your daily life. Things like your morning coffee run or a quick snack at the gas station might seem insignificant, but they add up fast. When you cut them out for a week, you’ll not only save money, but you’ll also become more aware of your spending habits moving forward.

It can even be fun! Get creative with what you have on hand. Cook meals using only the ingredients in your pantry or freezer, and find free activities to keep yourself entertained. It’s a powerful exercise in discipline that will help you realize just how much you can live without.

2. Ditch the Dryer—Air Dry Everything

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to save on energy costs is to stop using your dryer altogether. Dryers are one of the biggest energy hogs in your home, and by air drying your clothes, you can drastically reduce your utility bills. Whether it’s sunny or not, setting up an indoor or outdoor clothesline can make a noticeable difference in your monthly expenses.

Air drying isn’t just for warm summer days. You can hang clothes inside during colder months, and they’ll dry just as well, especially if you place them near a heater or vent. Bonus: your clothes will last longer because air drying is much gentler on fabrics compared to the high heat of a dryer.

Once you get into the habit of air drying, you’ll start to appreciate the slow, simple process. It’s a little time-consuming, sure, but it’s also kind of meditative. Plus, you’re not just saving money—you’re also helping the environment by reducing your energy consumption. Win-win!

3. Barter and Swap Services Instead of Paying

Why pay for services when you can swap skills with friends or neighbors? Bartering is a great way to save money on tasks like babysitting, home repairs, or even haircuts. If you’re good at something—cooking, tutoring, or fixing things—you can offer your services in exchange for something you need.

The beauty of bartering is that it builds community and strengthens relationships. Instead of exchanging money, you’re exchanging value and helping each other out. For example, you could watch your neighbor’s kids while they help you with a home improvement project. Everyone saves, and you get a sense of satisfaction from trading skills.

Barter groups and online communities also make it easier to find people who are willing to swap services. Apps like Nextdoor or local Facebook groups are great places to start. Whether it’s trading lawn care for tech support or babysitting for home-cooked meals, you’ll be surprised at how much you can save—and the connections you’ll make—when you start swapping instead of spending.

4. Downsize Your Living Space

One of the most extreme yet impactful ways to save money is to downsize your living space. Renting or owning more house than you need leads to higher utility bills, property taxes, and maintenance costs. By moving into a smaller home, or even renting out extra rooms, you can significantly cut your monthly expenses.

Downsizing doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort. In fact, many people find that having less space encourages them to live more simply and efficiently. It forces you to declutter and be more intentional about what you keep in your home. Plus, a smaller space can feel cozier and more manageable, especially if you’re focused on living frugally.

If moving isn’t an option, consider renting out a spare room or garage. Platforms like Airbnb or even renting to a long-term tenant can provide you with extra income, helping offset the cost of your mortgage or rent. It’s a smart way to turn your living space into an asset instead of a financial burden.

5. Go No-Name or Generic for Everything

One of the easiest ways to save money on everyday purchases is to switch to generic or store-brand products. From groceries to household items, going no-name can drastically cut your expenses without sacrificing quality. Most generic products are just as good as their branded counterparts, and in some cases, they’re even made in the same factories!

It’s a simple switch that can make a huge difference in your budget. Over time, the savings add up—especially when you’re buying essentials like pasta, rice, cleaning products, and over-the-counter medications. And let’s be real, is there really that much of a difference between store-brand paper towels and the fancy ones?

Once you get used to reaching for the no-name products, you’ll wonder why you ever paid extra for brand names in the first place. Sure, there might be a few items you’re loyal to, but for the most part, generic brands offer the same value without the flashy packaging. And your wallet will thank you for it.

6. Cancel All Subscriptions (Yes, All)

Let’s face it—subscription services can sneakily drain your bank account. It’s easy to sign up for a streaming service, meal kit delivery, or a gym membership, but those recurring charges add up quickly. One of the most frugal moves you can make is to cancel every subscription you have and find free alternatives.

Take a look at your bank statement and identify all the subscriptions you’re currently paying for. You might be surprised by how many there are! Whether it’s entertainment, fitness, or food, ask yourself if you truly need each one. Chances are, there’s a free or low-cost option available—like swapping Netflix for your local library’s DVD collection or using YouTube for workout videos.

By going subscription-free, you’ll have more control over your spending and more money in your pocket each month. It may feel like a big adjustment at first, but once you find free alternatives, you’ll realize how little you miss those recurring charges. Plus, it’s a great way to discover new (and free) hobbies and activities.

7. Adopt a Minimalist Wardrobe

The idea of a minimalist wardrobe is about focusing on quality over quantity and only owning what you truly need. A capsule wardrobe, for example, consists of a limited number of versatile pieces that you can mix and match. This approach not only saves money but also simplifies your life—no more staring at your closet wondering what to wear!

By adopting a minimalist wardrobe, you’ll reduce the need to constantly buy new clothes. Instead of keeping up with fast fashion trends, invest in a few high-quality items that will last for years. Look for neutral colors and timeless styles that can be dressed up or down for any occasion.

The result? You’ll save money by buying less, and you’ll spend less time shopping or worrying about what to wear. Plus, by focusing on durability, you’re helping to reduce waste and support more sustainable fashion choices. It’s a win for your wallet and the environment.

8. Cook All Meals from Scratch—No Exceptions

One of the most extreme yet rewarding ways to save money is to commit to cooking all your meals from scratch. Processed and pre-packaged foods are convenient, but they come at a premium. By buying whole ingredients and cooking at home, you’ll not only save money but also eat healthier.

It doesn’t have to be complicated either! Simple meals like soups, stews, stir-fries, and pasta dishes can be made in bulk and enjoyed throughout the week. Plus, you can get creative with ingredients you already have in your pantry, reducing the need for frequent grocery store trips.

Cooking at home also allows you to control portion sizes and avoid waste. Leftovers can be turned into new meals, and any extra ingredients can be frozen for future use. Over time, you’ll notice a significant difference in your grocery bills—and you’ll likely feel better too, knowing exactly what’s going into your meals.

9. Limit or Eliminate Your Driving

One of the biggest expenses that often goes unnoticed is the cost of driving. Gas, maintenance, insurance, and parking fees all add up quickly. If you’re looking to save money in a big way, consider cutting down on how much you drive or even eliminating driving altogether. Walking, biking, or carpooling can drastically reduce these costs and, as a bonus, help you stay fit and reduce your carbon footprint.

If you live in an area where driving is necessary, try to consolidate your trips. Instead of running errands throughout the week, plan to do everything in one go to save on gas and time. Additionally, explore options like public transportation, which can often be more affordable than owning a car.

For those ready to take it to the next level, consider selling your car if you live in an area with good public transport or within walking distance of your daily needs. Not only will you save on gas and maintenance, but you’ll also cut out big expenses like insurance and car payments, freeing up a significant amount of cash every month.

10. DIY Everything You Can

Learning how to DIY is one of the most empowering ways to save money. Whether it’s home repairs, beauty treatments, or even simple things like making your own cleaning products, doing it yourself can lead to huge savings. Many services and products are marked up simply because of the convenience factor, but with a little research and practice, you can do a lot on your own.

Start with the basics: things like fixing a leaky faucet, hemming your own clothes, or giving yourself a haircut are all tasks that, with some patience, are easy to learn. There are countless tutorials online, making it easier than ever to pick up a new skill. Plus, DIY projects often lead to a sense of accomplishment that you just don’t get from paying someone else to do the work.

Not only will you save money, but you’ll also become more self-reliant. Over time, you might even find yourself enjoying the DIY process, whether it’s home improvement or crafting gifts for friends and family. You don’t have to be a pro at everything—just start small, and watch your savings grow.

11. Reevaluate Your Grocery List with a ‘Survival Mode’ Mindset

When times are tough, it’s time to strip your grocery list down to the bare essentials. Adopting a ‘survival mode’ mindset means focusing on cheap, nutritious foods like rice, beans, oats, and frozen vegetables. These staples are not only affordable, but they’re also versatile and can be used to create a variety of meals without breaking the bank.

Many people are surprised to find that they can still eat well while drastically reducing their grocery bills. By cutting out expensive items like pre-packaged snacks, sodas, and luxury foods, you’ll not only save money but also improve your diet. Meal planning and sticking to a strict grocery list will help you avoid impulse buys and keep you on track.

Another tip is to buy in bulk when possible. Things like grains, pasta, and canned goods are often cheaper in larger quantities, and they last a long time. If you have the space, consider storing non-perishable items to minimize grocery trips and save even more money in the long run.

12. Practice Extreme Couponing and Deal Stacking

If you haven’t tried extreme couponing, now is the time to dive in. Extreme couponing isn’t just about clipping a few coupons from the newspaper—it’s about finding every possible deal and stacking discounts to maximize savings. This method takes some time and organization, but once you get the hang of it, you can drastically reduce your grocery and household expenses.

Start by combining manufacturer coupons, store coupons, and cashback apps like Ibotta or Rakuten to get the most out of every purchase. Many stores also offer loyalty programs that give you access to even more discounts. When you stack these savings, you can sometimes walk out of the store with items for free or at a fraction of their usual cost.

The key to successful extreme couponing is being patient and waiting for the right sales to come along. Instead of buying something just because you have a coupon, wait for the best deal, and stock up when the price is at its lowest. It might take some time to build your stockpile, but once you do, you’ll rarely have to pay full price for anything.

13. Reinforce a ‘Use it Up, Wear it Out’ Mentality

One of the most important principles of extreme frugality is adopting a ‘use it up, wear it out’ mentality. This means making the most of everything you own, from clothes to household items, before considering replacements. By committing to this mindset, you’ll avoid the constant urge to buy new things and make your money go further.

For example, instead of buying new clothes when something gets a small tear, learn how to mend it yourself. Shoes can be resoled, appliances can be repaired, and furniture can be refurbished. The goal is to get as much life out of your belongings as possible before even thinking about replacements.

It’s not just about saving money—it’s also about reducing waste. When you make the conscious decision to extend the life of your possessions, you’re not only cutting down on costs but also helping the environment. It’s a small but powerful change that can have a big impact on both your budget and your mindset.

14. Skip Gifts for Special Occasions—Give Time Instead

Gifts for birthdays, holidays, and special occasions can take a big chunk out of your budget. Instead of spending money on things, why not give the gift of time? Whether it’s offering to babysit for a friend, helping a family member with a home project, or planning a special day out together, these thoughtful gestures can mean more than material gifts.

Giving time is not only a money-saving option, but it also strengthens your relationships. Spending quality time with the people you care about often means more than a physical item that will eventually be forgotten. Plus, experiences tend to create lasting memories, whereas material gifts can fade from memory quickly.

If you still feel the need to give a physical gift, try making something yourself. Whether it’s homemade baked goods, a handcrafted item, or even a simple photo album, these gifts are often more meaningful and personal than something bought from a store. It’s a great way to show love and appreciation without overspending.

15. Grow Your Own Food

If you have a little space in your yard—or even a balcony—you can start growing your own food. A small garden can save you a surprising amount of money, especially if you focus on high-yield crops like tomatoes, peppers, herbs, and leafy greens. These vegetables are easy to grow, even for beginners, and they can significantly reduce your grocery bills.

Gardening also has a lot of other benefits. Not only are you saving money on fresh produce, but you’re also eating healthier, more nutritious food that’s free from chemicals and pesticides. Plus, gardening can be incredibly rewarding—it’s a great way to spend time outdoors and connect with nature while watching your plants grow and thrive.

If you don’t have space for a full garden, consider container gardening or even growing herbs on your windowsill. You don’t need much space to start growing your own food, and every little bit helps. Over time, you’ll be able to enjoy homegrown produce without the hefty grocery store price tag.

16. Use Alternative Cleaning Solutions

Instead of spending money on expensive store-bought cleaning products, why not make your own? Most commercial cleaning products are overpriced and filled with chemicals that aren’t great for your health or the environment. With a few basic ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice, you can create effective and inexpensive cleaning solutions that work just as well as the store-bought stuff.

For example, a simple mixture of vinegar and water can be used to clean windows, mirrors, and countertops. Baking soda is a great scrub for sinks and tubs, while lemon juice can help cut through grease and leave a fresh scent. These ingredients are not only cheap but also natural, making them a healthier option for your home.

Once you start making your own cleaners, you’ll wonder why you ever spent money on brand-name products. Not only are these homemade solutions effective, but they’re also better for the planet. Plus, you’ll have the satisfaction of knowing exactly what’s in the products you’re using.

17. Cancel Health and Beauty Services

Health and beauty services like haircuts, manicures, and spa treatments can be shockingly expensive over time. By learning how to do these services at home, you can save a ton of money. There are countless tutorials online for cutting your own hair, doing at-home manicures, and even giving yourself facials, so there’s no need to pay salon prices for something you can easily do yourself.

At-home treatments might not feel as luxurious as a day at the spa, but they’re a great way to keep yourself looking and feeling good without the hefty price tag. Invest in a few quality tools, like clippers or manicure sets, and you’ll be able to take care of these tasks on your own. Over time, the savings will really add up.

Plus, doing these things yourself can be empowering. You’ll gain new skills and have more control over your personal care routine. Whether it’s trimming your bangs or giving yourself a pedicure, these DIY beauty hacks can help you feel great while keeping your budget in check.

Living frugally doesn’t have to feel like deprivation—it’s about making smart, intentional choices that align with your goals. By embracing these extreme frugal living tips, you’ll discover how small lifestyle changes can lead to significant savings over time. Whether it’s swapping services with friends, growing your own food, or rethinking your wardrobe, these methods can help you reduce expenses in ways that go beyond traditional budgeting advice.

Remember, frugality is a journey, and it’s all about finding what works for you. The more you challenge yourself to try new things, the more you’ll realize just how much you can save without sacrificing quality of life. So take what resonates, try it out, and watch your savings grow!

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