1. Disposable Diapers
Disposable diapers are a huge expense for families with babies. Not only are they costly, but they also contribute massively to environmental pollution. Every year, billions of disposable diapers make their way to landfills where they take hundreds of years to decompose.
Instead, consider switching to cloth diapers. They are reusable, eco-friendly, and over time, much cheaper. Plus, they come in a variety of cute designs, making your baby’s bottom look even cuter!
2. Bottled Water
Many people buy bottled water because they believe it’s safer or tastes better than tap water. But according to several studies, bottled water is not necessarily safer or healthier than tap water. Moreover, it’s an unnecessary expense and contributes to plastic pollution.
Invest in a good quality water filter and reusable water bottles instead. This will save you money in the long run, and it’s a more sustainable choice.
3. Pre-packaged Snacks
While pre-packaged snacks are convenient, they often contain unhealthy ingredients like artificial flavors, preservatives, and high amounts of sugar and salt. Plus, they can be pricey compared to homemade snacks.
Try making your own snacks at home. You can prepare them in batches over the weekend and store them in reusable containers. This way, you’ll know exactly what your family is eating, and it’s often more cost-effective.
4. Paper Towels
Paper towels are another disposable item that we tend to overuse. They’re handy for cleaning up spills and messes, but they’re also wasteful and expensive in the long run.
Consider using reusable cloths or rags for cleaning. You can even make your own rags from old t-shirts or towels. Wash them regularly and they’ll last for a long time, saving you money.
5. Baby Wipes
Like disposable diapers, baby wipes are an ongoing expense for families with infants. They’re convenient, but they also create a lot of waste.
Consider using reusable baby wipes or washcloths. You can easily make your own baby wipe solution with water, baby soap, and a few drops of baby oil. This is a more sustainable and cost-effective option.
6. Kitchen Gadgets
While some kitchen gadgets can be handy, many of them end up gathering dust in our cupboards. Before you buy another gadget, ask yourself if you really need it, or if there’s something else in your kitchen that could do the same job.
Try to stick to the basics when it comes to kitchen equipment. A good set of knives, pots and pans, a cutting board, and a few versatile utensils are usually all you need.
7. Plastic Storage Containers
Plastic storage containers can be handy, but they also take up a lot of space, and over time, they can become stained and warped.
Consider switching to glass containers. They’re more durable, they don’t stain or hold odors, and they can be used in the oven, microwave, and dishwasher. Plus, they’re better for your health and the environment.
8. Dryer Sheets
Dryer sheets may make your clothes feel soft and smell good, but they’re not necessary. They can also contain chemicals that aren’t good for you or the environment.
Instead, consider using wool dryer balls. They’re reusable, they naturally soften your clothes, and you can add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to give your laundry a fresh scent.
9. Bottled Salad Dressings
Bottled salad dressings are quick and convenient, but they often contain unhealthy ingredients like high fructose corn syrup, artificial flavors, and preservatives. Plus, they can be expensive.
Making your own salad dressing is easy and healthier. You can make a simple vinaigrette with olive oil, vinegar, mustard, and honey. Or get creative and try different combinations of herbs, spices, and other ingredients.
10. Brand Name Cleaning Products
Many brand name cleaning products are expensive and contain harsh chemicals. But you don’t need to spend a lot of money to keep your home clean and fresh.
Consider making your own cleaning products using simple ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils. They’re effective, eco-friendly, and much cheaper.
11. Single-Use Kitchen Tools
Single-use kitchen tools, like avocado slicers or egg separators, can seem handy at first. But they usually end up cluttering your drawers, and they’re often not as efficient as they promise to be.
Instead, use a good quality knife or other multipurpose kitchen tools. They’re more versatile and take up less space.
12. Plastic Bags
Plastic bags are not only bad for the environment, they’re also an unnecessary expense. Many stores now charge for plastic bags and they’re not very durable.
Invest in a few reusable shopping bags instead. They’re stronger, they can carry more items, and they’re much more sustainable.
13. Pre-Cut Fruits and Vegetables
Pre-cut fruits and vegetables are convenient, but they’re also more expensive and they spoil faster than whole fruits and vegetables.
Save money by buying whole fruits and vegetables and cutting them yourself. You can even prepare them in advance and store them in your fridge for easy access.
14. Individual Yoghurt Containers
Individual yoghurt containers might be handy for packing in lunches, but they generate a lot of plastic waste and they’re more expensive per ounce than larger containers.
Buy larger containers of yoghurt and portion it out into reusable containers. You can even add your own fresh fruits, nuts, or granola for a healthier and more affordable snack.
15. Boxed Cake Mixes
Boxed cake mixes may save you some time, but they often contain unhealthy ingredients and they’re more expensive than making a cake from scratch.
Baking a cake from scratch is not as hard as it seems, and there are plenty of easy and delicious recipes out there. Plus, you’ll know exactly what’s in your cake, and it will taste much better!
16. Single-Use Batteries
Single-use batteries are not only costly, but they also generate a lot of waste and can be harmful to the environment.
Consider switching to rechargeable batteries. They may cost more upfront, but they’ll save you money in the long run, and they’re much more eco-friendly.
17. Disposable Cutlery and Plates
Disposable cutlery and plates may be convenient for picnics or parties, but they’re wasteful and they can add up in cost.
Invest in some durable, reusable picnic ware instead. It’s better for the environment, and it will save you money over time.
18. Pre-Made Spice Mixes
Pre-made spice mixes can be expensive, and they often contain additives and preservatives.
Making your own spice mixes is not only cheaper, but it also allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavors to your liking.
19. Bottled Smoothies
Bottled smoothies might seem like a healthy choice, but they often contain added sugars and preservatives. Plus, they’re expensive.
Making your own smoothies at home is easy, healthier, and more cost-effective. You can use fresh fruits and vegetables, and customize your smoothies to your taste.
