The Great Depression, a brutal time in history (unemployment peaked at 25% in 1933!), forced people to get creative and resourceful. But out of hardship came ingenuity, and those hard times also yielded some valuable money-saving strategies that are surprisingly relevant even today. Here are 25 timeless thrift tips inspired by the Great Depression era, sprinkled with some surprising statistics to make your wallet happy:

Stretch Your Groceries

Meatless Mondays (and Tuesdays!): Beans, lentils, and other plant-based proteins were Depression staples. Did you know that according to a 2023 study by the Environmental Working Group, going meatless just one day a week can save you up to $1,500 a year on groceries?

Plan Your Meals

Impulse grocery shopping is a recipe for waste. Plan your meals for the week and create a list. A 2022 study by the USDA found that meal-planning households waste 30% less food than those who don’t plan!

Master Leftovers

Get creative with leftovers! Leftovers can be transformed into new dishes, reducing food waste and saving money. According to a 2023 National Resources Defense Council report, American households waste a shocking $400 billion worth of food each year.

Shop the Sales (But Only What You Need)

Take advantage of sales and coupons, but avoid impulse buys. A 2024 study by the National Coupon Association found that the average American saves $2,000 per year using coupons!

Grow Your Own (Even a Little)

A small herb garden on your windowsill or a few tomato plants on your balcony can provide fresh produce and cut down on grocery bills. Did you know that according to a 2023 report by the National Gardening Association, growing just a small amount of your own food can save you up to $200 per year?

Embrace Secondhand

Thrift stores and consignment shops are treasure troves! You might find high-quality items at a fraction of the retail price. The global secondhand market is expected to reach a whopping $84.6 billion by 2028, according to a 2023 report by ThredUp!

Ditch the Impulse Buys

Resist the urge to buy things you don’t truly need. Ask yourself if you’ll use it multiple times before making a purchase. Studies show that impulse purchases can account for up to 80% of unplanned spending!

Comparison Shop

Don’t settle for the first price you see. Compare prices online and at different stores to ensure you’re getting the best deal. A 2024 study by Consumer Reports found that comparison shopping can save you an average of 27% on your purchases!

Consider Generic Brands

Many generic brands offer the same quality as name brands at a fraction of the cost. Blind taste tests often show that people can’t tell the difference!

Master the Art of DIY

From mending clothes to fixing leaky faucets, learning basic repair skills can save you money on professional services. According to a 2023 HomeAdvisor report, a handyman visit costs $200, so a little DIY know-how can add up!

Embrace Energy Efficiency

Invest in energy-efficient light bulbs and appliances. A single LED bulb can last 25 times longer than a traditional incandescent bulb, and Energy Star-rated appliances can save you hundreds on your electricity bill over their lifetime.

Unplug Electronics When Not in Use

Even electronics in standby mode can drain energy. Did you know that according to the Department of Energy, phantom energy use from electronics can account for up to 10% of your home’s electricity bill? Unplug chargers and devices when not in use to save money and reduce your carbon footprint.

Embrace Natural Light

Open your curtains and blinds during the day to take advantage of natural light and reduce reliance on artificial lighting. Natural light can also boost your mood and improve productivity!

Air Dry Clothes (When Possible)

Skip the dryer whenever possible and hang clothes to dry naturally. This saves energy and reduces wear and tear on your clothes. According to the Alliance to Save Energy, air-drying your clothes can save you up to $125 per year on your energy bill!

Embrace Free Entertainment

There are tons of free or low-cost entertainment options available. Visit your local library, explore free museum days, or have a potluck with friends instead of expensive nights out. Did you know that the average American spends over $2,100 per year on entertainment? Explore free options and keep more money in your pocket!

Embrace the Power of “No”

Learn to politely decline unnecessary expenses, like subscriptions you don’t use or social events you can’t afford. A 2023 study by NerdWallet found that the average American family spends over $800 per year on unused subscriptions. Audit your subscriptions and ditch the ones you don’t use!

The “5-Wait Rule”

Before making a purchase, especially a large one, wait at least five days (or a week!). Often, the urge to buy fades, saving you from impulse spending. According to a study by Charles Duhigg, author of “The Power of Habit,” the average impulse purchase decision takes only 30 seconds! Slow down and avoid buyer’s remorse.

Challenge Yourself with a No-Spend Challenge

Try a no-spend challenge for a week or a month to curb unnecessary expenses and become more mindful of your spending habits. A 2022 survey by YouGov found that 31% of Americans have participated in a no-spend challenge, and many report feeling more in control of their finances after the challenge.

Embrace Multipurpose Products

Look for products that serve multiple functions, reducing the need to buy multiple single-use items. For example, a cast iron skillet can be used for frying, baking, and even grilling!

Barter and Trade

See if you can barter or trade unwanted items for things you need. This can be a great way to save money and declutter your home. Did you know that there are online platforms and local groups dedicated to bartering and trading goods and services?

Before Buying Something New, See if You Can Fix It

A torn shirt? A leaky faucet? With a little DIY know-how and some online tutorials, you might be surprised what you can fix yourself. According to a 2023 report by HomeServe, the average cost of a plumber visit is $175, so a little effort on a DIY repair can save you big!

Get Crafty

Learn basic sewing, knitting, or other crafting skills. You can create unique gifts, clothes, or decorations for a fraction of the retail cost. Did you know that the global craft market is expected to reach a value of $632.4 billion by 2028, according to a 2023 report by Grand View Research? Get crafty and avoid contributing to those statistics by making your own!

Embrace Free Resources

Your local library offers a wealth of free resources, from books and movies to educational programs and workshops. Libraries are often hidden gems for entertainment, lifelong learning, and even job searching – all for free!

Enjoy Free Outdoor Activities

Hiking, biking, picnicking, and exploring nature are all free (or very low-cost) ways to have fun and stay healthy. According to a 2023 study by the National Park Service, visiting a national park costs an average of $35 per vehicle. Countless free outdoor adventures are waiting to be explored!

Fuel Efficiency Matters

Consider carpooling, using public transportation, or biking for errands when possible. This saves money on gas and helps the environment. A 2024 American Public Transportation Association report found that public transportation commuters save an average of $9,500 per year compared to driving alone!

Living with my grandparents was like enrolling in a master class on managing money taught by two veterans of frugality, wisdom, and wealth-building. Their house was a library of life lessons where every conversation, every action, and even every silence taught me something about handling money. From the importance of saving to understanding the value of a dollar, the financial lessons were simple yet profound, delivered not through lectures but through the very fabric of daily life.

Pennies Make Dollars

My grandparents believed every penny saved was a step toward a dollar earned. They’d often save loose change in jars, showing me how those small amounts could eventually add up to significant savings. This lesson taught me never to underestimate small amounts, be it saving or spending.

The Art of Repair

When something broke, the first response was to fix it, not replace it. This resourcefulness in repairing clothes, toys, and even appliances instilled in me a sense of creativity and respect for the objects I own, highlighting the hidden costs of our disposable culture.

Quality Over Quantity

In a world obsessed with more, my grandparents cherished quality. They invested in items that lasted years, not months, teaching me that the true cost of an item isn’t its price tag but its cost per use. This wisdom has led me to make more thoughtful purchases.

The Envelope System

Long before digital budgeting tools, there was the envelope system. My grandparents would divide their cash into envelopes labeled for a specific expense. This visual and tactile budgeting method showed me the importance of allocating funds and the power of physical interaction with my money.

The Garden Goldmine

My grandparents’ garden was more than a hobby; it was a strategy for reducing grocery bills. This lesson in self-sufficiency showed me the value of hard work and the financial and health benefits of growing your own food.

Homemade Happiness

From bread to birthday gifts, my grandparents preferred homemade. This approach not only saved money but also added a personal touch to every aspect of life, teaching me that thoughtfulness doesn’t have to come with a high price tag.

The Power of Patience

In an instant-gratification society, my grandparents were all about waiting. Whether waiting for a sale or saving up for a big purchase, they knew that patience was not only a virtue but also a wealth-building strategy.

Financial Independence

My grandparents preached and practiced financial independence. They lived within their means, avoided debt, and saved diligently, showing me that true freedom comes from being in control of your finances, not letting your finances control you.

The Joy of Giving

Even with their frugal lifestyle, my grandparents were generous. They taught me the importance of giving back, whether through donations or time, showing that wealth isn’t just about what you have but also about what you give.

Bargain Hunting

My grandparents were the ultimate bargain hunters, always knowing when and where to find the best deals. This skill taught me the importance of research and timing in maximizing savings without compromising on quality.

The Library Lifestyle

Before streaming and eBooks, there was the public library. My grandparents were regulars, showing me that access to knowledge and entertainment doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag.

Cash Conversations

Money wasn’t a taboo topic in my grandparents’ house. They spoke openly about finances, teaching me the importance of being informed and comfortable discussing money matters, a skill crucial for personal and professional financial negotiations.

Learning from Losses

My grandparents had their share of financial setbacks but viewed each as a learning opportunity. This resilience taught me that mistakes are not failures but lessons that guide future decisions.

The Beauty of Simplicity

Life with my grandparents was beautifully simple. This simplicity was not about deprivation but about prioritizing what truly matters. This lesson has helped me differentiate between wants and needs, leading to a more fulfilling and less financially strained life.

Investing in Experiences

While they were careful with money, my grandparents knew the value of experiences over things. The memories created from modest family vacations or simple outings were priceless, teaching me that the best investments aren’t always financial.

Retirement Planning

My grandparents started saving for retirement early in their careers. Witnessing their disciplined approach and comfortable retirement underscored the importance of early and consistent retirement planning.

The Wealth of Knowledge

Ultimately, my grandparents believed in the wealth of knowledge. They were lifelong learners, always reading, exploring, and trying new things. This curiosity not only enriched their lives but also taught me that investing in oneself is the best investment of all.

Navigating the world of home repairs can often feel like a tightrope walk between maintaining your home’s charm and managing your finances wisely. With ingenuity and strategic planning, it’s possible to keep your home in tip-top shape without emptying your wallet. Here are 15 clever ways to save on home repairs.

1. Create and Stick To a Budget

The cornerstone of any cost-effective home repair strategy is a well-thought-out budget. Begin by estimating the costs as accurately as possible, considering both materials and labor. This foresight prevents sticker shock and curtails the temptation to overspend, ensuring your home improvement projects don’t jeopardize your financial stability.

2. Pay Cash

Paying cash for home repairs can feel counterintuitive in a world that leans heavily on credit. Yet, this approach sidesteps potential interest charges that accrue with loans or credit card payments, keeping the overall cost down. Saving up and paying cash also instills a sense of discipline and financial control that’s often lost in the swipe-and-forget culture of credit spending.

3. Take Your Time

Adopting a measured pace for home improvements can be financially advantageous unless facing an urgent repair. This delay grants homeowners the luxury of scouting for deals, saving for quality materials, and even reevaluating the necessity of certain repairs, ensuring that every dollar spent is well-invested.

4. Do It Yourself

The DIY approach is not just a trend but a bona fide way to save on labor costs. From painting walls to installing shelving, many home repairs are well within the reach of a determined homeowner. Leveraging online tutorials and community workshops can empower even the most novice individuals, turning a daunting task into a rewarding and cost-saving project.

5. Reuse Materials

Embracing the art of reusing materials benefits the environment and your budget. Salvaged wood, repurposed furniture, and leftover tiles can all find new life in your repair projects. This approach adds character to your home and significantly cuts costs by reducing the need for new materials.

6. Balance High and Low-End Materials

A strategic mix of high and low-end materials can balance quality and cost. Invest in high quality where it counts, such as for structural components or frequently used fixtures, and opt for more affordable alternatives for decorative or less critical areas. This balance ensures durability where needed while keeping overall expenses in check.

7. Wait For Sales Before Making Big Purchases

Timing is everything when it comes to large purchases. Waiting for seasonal sales, clearance events, or holiday discounts can lead to significant savings on appliances, materials, and tools. Planning your repair schedule around these sales periods requires patience but rewards with substantial cost reductions.

8. Enlist Help

Pooling resources and skills with friends or family members can make home repairs more manageable and less costly. Whether it’s painting, gardening, or simple carpentry, a collective effort speeds up the process and makes it more enjoyable and economical, as you save on labor costs.

9. Be Smart About Hiring Help

For repairs beyond your skill set, hiring professional help is inevitable. However, smart hiring can prevent overspending. Always seek multiple quotes, check references thoroughly, and ensure clear communication about the scope and cost of the project. This diligence ensures you get the best value for your money without sacrificing quality.

10. Find Money Saving “Hacks”

Innovative hacks, like using generic parts or choosing refurbishments over replacements, can shave dollars off your repair bills. For example, refreshing cabinet hardware instead of replacing the cabinets can update a kitchen’s look at a fraction of the cost.

11. Keep Your Home’s Footprint the Same

Significant structural changes are a surefire way to balloon home repair costs. Keeping your home’s footprint unchanged saves on demolition and construction costs and avoids the complexities and expenses associated with permits and architectural plans.

12. Stick To the Classics

Trends come and go, but classic design endures—and is often more cost-effective in the long run. Opting for timeless styles in fixtures, finishes, and colors means your home remains in vogue without needing frequent, costly updates.

13. Don’t Skimp On Cost-Saving Opportunities

Investing in energy-efficient appliances or durable materials might seem more expensive initially, but it often leads to savings in maintenance, repair, or utility bills over time. Identifying these opportunities where spending a bit more now means less spending later is key to long-term savings.

14. Sell Anything You’re Not Using

Unused materials, old fixtures, or surplus tools can be sold to recoup some of the costs associated with home repairs. Online marketplaces and local classifieds are excellent platforms for turning these leftovers into cash, reducing the net expense of your projects.

15. Earn Rewards For the Money You’re Spending

If you must use a credit card for purchases, opt for one that offers cashback or rewards points. This strategy can help mitigate costs by returning a portion of your spending back to you. Pay off the balance each month to avoid interest charges that could negate any rewards earned.