TIP #1

Don’t like to iron, but need to smooth out some wrinkles in your clothes?? Don’t buy that Downy Wrinkle Release stuff! It’s too expensive! Just invest in a spray bottle. They are about $1 at most stores. Fill it with filtered water, and spray your garment lightly. Then, smooth out the wrinkles gently with your hand, and tug the sides of it, and lay flat to dry. Just as the Downy stuff directs you to do. It works just as well as the Downy stuff, but it’s free! And, you can even use the spray bottle to discipline a naughty kitty (or husband) when needed. So many uses.

TIP #2

Got a lot of coupons to use at the store?? Choose your cashier wisely! Of course you should only use coupons that are valid and are for the items you are buying, but sometimes cashiers won’t let you use them depending on their mood!

I always look for cashiers who look friendly; young cashiers, or any man. I find that they are less likely to give you grief about your coupons. They just want to get you in and out.

You have to understand that coupons are extra work for the cashiers, so some will tell you that you can’t use a coupon when it’s completely valid, because they are annoyed. If they refuse to let you use your coupons, ask to speak to a manager. It will take time, but it will be worth to to save the money you are entitled to.

It’s harsh.. but it’s the truth! Just a little handy tip to help make your life easier next time you show up at the store with a stack of coupons!

TIP #3
Did you know??  According to Consumer Reports, you throw away a lot of the products you buy without knowing it!   Here’s what you waste generally:
Lotion bottles: 17-25%
Liquid detergent 7-16%
Condiments       3-15%
Toothpaste       1-13%
So, that being said, turn your containers upside down, add a little bit of water to thin them out, or cut the bottle or tube open (carefully) to get the last little bit out!  Don’t throw away your hard earned cash!!

TIP #4
Save money on bread, and other baked goods; plus meats!  Always check the discount rack for the day old breads and baked goods.  They are usually just as good, and over half off.  Ralph’s always has a rack near the back of the store.  Always check the discounted meat section in the store also.  Most stores like Vons and Ralphs have a Clearance section of the meat department that is labeled with a small sign.  Most of the time the meats are on the last or next to last date of sale, and are 50% off or more. As long as you use them that day or freeze them right away, they are just as good!  Try this to save a few extra bucks this week!

TIP #5
Have you ever fried something in your deep fryer and the food left little bits in the oil??  The oil isn’t old, and you would like to use it again, but you don’t want those little pieces in there.  I have a fix for you!
In the paint section of Lowe’s or Home Depot they sell 4 packs of paint strainer cones for about $0.98.  These are very fine. and will get all the bits out!  Just make sure your oil is cooled first before doing this.  You could also try a strainer lined with cheese cloth, but the paint strainers are much cleaner and easier.  Just make sure if the oil starts to smell bad or gets very dark in color to then dispose of it.  Don’t save it forever.. but this tip might help you get a little extra life out of your oil!

TIP #6
Are you a member of your local FreeCycle?? It’s a great online form/newsletter where you can post or view items that people no longer want, that are free for pick up.  You never know when something great will come along! Looking for a a table or dresser to fix up? Need moving boxes?? Chances are, someone on FreeCycle will have it for you for free!!

Click here to locate your town’s FreeCycle and sign up.

TIP #7
Have you signed up for Ebates yet?? It’s great. I use it every time I buy online. You get 3% cash back for all Ebay purchases too! It’s free, and you get $5 for signing up. You just visit their site first when you are ready to make a purchase at a participating store (there are thousands of them), search for that store’s name on their site, click on the link to that store, and that’s it!  You’ll get a cash back rebate.  They also let you know about great coupon codes too!  I’ve made over $100 cash back in the last year! Click the Ebates logo below, or Use this link to sign up for Ebates!

TIP #8
Have shirts with grease stains on them?? Don’t throw them away!  Simply rub some Dawn dish soap on the grease stain.  Wait 10 minutes, sprinkle lightly with cornstarch and rub in.  Wait another 10 minutes.  Dust off excess cornstarch, and wash along with your other clothing. 9 times out of 10, it completely removes the stain, even if it’s been washed several times!