Blogging for Change

Tips for saving money at home

by Kim McGrigg on
6/9/2011
in Housing and Homeownership

With a little common sense, saving money on things like home repairs and electricity is easy.  Remember, small lifestyle changes can make a big financial difference. 

We asked some savvy consumers to share their tips for saving money around the house.

  • Instead of dry cleaning, I use Dryell for the dryer which does an excellent job cleaning my suits and fancy label tops. -Tamara, Wauchula
  • Wash your clothes in warm or cold water instead of hot water.  -Jeffrey, University Place
  • If you paying Primary Mortgage Insurance (PMI), check to make sure it is still necessary.  Once you have 20% or equity or more in your home, you may able to cancel the PMI.  -Kim, Denver
  • Replace your regular light bulbs with compact florescent bulbs. -Sean, Tomball
  • Buy clothes that don't require dry cleaning.  The true cost of wardrobe ownership can be staggering. -Roy, Boston
  • If you have a dog, and you buy stuffed toys, stitch them up after Fido rips them apart.  Your four-legged friend will never know the difference.  -Chris, Sugar Land
  • Unplug what isn't being used (like a toaster), turn off the computer monitor instead of leaving it on standby, shut off a light if you aren't in the room.  These small changes add up & can help cut back your electric bill (plus you help the environment too!) -Erin, Lowell
  • Maintain your house.  Doing the little things along the way is much better than facing major repairs down the road. -Charlie, Dallas
  • When appropriate, try to fix it yourself.  I've managed to fix some things after a quick online search saving. The key? Knowing when to call an expert! -Walt, Washington
  • I'm not sure if this has a significant effect or not, but I don't let my dishwasher dry my dishes.  I just dry them as I put them away and assume it's saving me a little bit each time.  -Wendy, Dallas
  • Clean your own carpets.  You can rent a rug doctor cheap. -Barb, Memphis
  • I cut back on cable although because I can't justify watching TV with two jobs so I watch local channels with my new digital converter box when I do get the chance to watch my favorite sports or dramas. -Tamara, Wauchula
  • Don't touch the thermostat.  Reminds me of that commercial, 'set it and forget it!' assuming you have a programmable model. -Martha, Charlotte
  • Water your yard in the evening or in the morning – these are the coolest times of the day and the water won't evaporate. -Andrea, Dallas
  • Don't let the water run while brushing your teeth; take shorter showers. -Sharon, Richmond

Do you have a tip to share?  Please share it by leaving a comment

Money Management International (MMI), a HUD-certified housing counseling agency, is celebrating National Homeownership Month throughout June by providing potential and existing homeowners with valuable tips and tools. 

Kim McGrigg is the former Manager of Community and Media Relations for MMI.

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