Anyone else feeling the pinch of increased prices everywhere? On everything?
It’s true — from strawberries to toddler pajamas to mouthwash — the cost of living these days just keeps climbing.
Well, I’m going to free up your shopping list with 10 items that you can immediately eliminate from your future purchases.
Not only will removing these things save you money, it will also save you time, energy, and clutter in your home.
10 Things to Stop Buying
1. Books
I really think the library is one of our greatest free resources. They have a nearly endless supply of books, as well as tons of other freebies. So before you purchase your next read, go grab it from the library instead.
2. Prepackaged Snacks
I get it — they are so convenient. But, I would argue that 99% of the time, the cost per ounce is much higher compared to buying it in a larger size and “packaging” it yourself.
Think Goldfish crackers, popcorn, sweet treats/candy, pretzels, chips, etc. Buy the bigger bag or box and portion it out at home.
3. A New Outfit for Every Occasion
I used to be guilty of this one. Simply put, you and your kids do not need to run to the mall for every upcoming event. Shop your own closets first or reach out to a friend or family member and borrow something.
School pictures, job interviews, a night out with friends, a holiday party — it’s okay not to wear something new for each and every occasion.
4. Puzzles
Yep, I’m going to brag about the library again. Did you know they have tons of puzzles just waiting for you to borrow? They range from kids ones up to over 1500 piece jigsaw puzzles. Bonus hint: the Dr. James Carlson Library has the best selection. Or, ask a fellow “puzzler” if they would let you borrow some the next time you feel like putting one together.
5. Expensive Experiences for Babies & Toddlers.
I’m not knocking the really fun play places and experience-type buys, but in all honesty, kids at these really young ages are just as happy going to a local park, a fellow mom friend’s house for a playdate, the mall play land, or on a stroller ride with a tasty snack onboard.
6. Storage Containers Every Time You Reorganize
Every social media influencer would like us to believe that we have to drop a pretty penny on matching and cute storage baskets before we tackle our kids’ playroom. But, it’s so unnecessary. Let’s use up what we already have!
7. Exercise Apps
Physical fitness is so important, but before you spend a bunch of money on a new app or monthly subscription, I’d challenge you to see what you can find for free. I personally like looking for workouts on YouTube or even asking ChatGPT to come up with ones for me.
8. Coffee
You knew this one was coming so don’t act surprised! Coffee shop beverages are delicious, but definitely not cheap. Making your coffee at home (or simply skipping that pricey latte when you run your errands) will save you money.
9. Non-Refillable “Daily Items”
(Think dish soap, lotion, hand soap, etc.) It’s significantly cheaper to buy bulk or refillable hand soap versus buying a new one every time you run out.
10. Baskets for the Kids on Every Holiday.
When did we start thinking that we had to give our kids a cute basket full of treats and gifts for every holiday? When you think of how much time, effort, and money goes into these things, it’s kind of wild.
I’m all about making the year special, but I’m just giving you permission to skip this once in a while. Plus, if you’re like me, you’d probably be filling these things with extra sweets they don’t need or smaller items that you’ll likely need to declutter down the road.
Skip it and save the hassle.
Bottom Line
Everything we buy adds up over time. It costs us money, time, effort, energy, and sometimes even precious space in our homes. So, if you’re looking to save in these areas, removing these things will help. Even if you eliminate just a few, your budget, your home, and your energy will be grateful.
