Diy Ways To Be Frugal
📖 Table of Contents
I remember the first time I realized how much money I was wasting on takeout. It was a rainy Tuesday, and I had just spent $12 on a bowl of noodles that took less than 15 minutes to make at home. That moment was the turning point for me. I started looking for ways to be frugal — not just in terms of cutting costs, but also in building a life that felt rich in experiences and not just in savings. The more I explored diy ways to be frugal, the more I saw that it wasn’t about deprivation; it was about intention and creativity.[1]
One of the most eye-opening parts of my journey was realizing how much I could save by simply making things myself — from cleaning products to homemade skincare. I used to spend $30 a month on laundry detergent, but after discovering a simple DIY recipe using baking soda, vinegar, and essential oils, I slashed my expenses in half. These little changes made a big difference over time, and they opened my eyes to how much potential lies in diy ways to be frugal.[2]
DIY isn’t just about saving money. It’s about reclaiming time, reducing waste, and building skills that enrich your life in ways you never expected. Whether you’re making your own soap, growing your own herbs, or repurposing old clothes into new outfits, each step you take toward a more frugal lifestyle is a step toward empowerment. And the best part? It’s all doable — you don’t need to be a pro to start making a difference.
Why You'll Love This Frugal Lifestyle
- Save hundreds of dollars a year with simple DIY solutions.
- Reduce your environmental impact by avoiding single-use products.
- Gain confidence in your ability to create and innovate.
- Spend more time on what matters, not on shopping.
Making Your Own Cleaning Products
As of August 2026, I used to buy expensive cleaning products, not realizing how easy it was to make my own. A simple mix of vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils can replace most of the store-bought cleaners. I remember the first time I used my homemade all-purpose cleaner — it worked so well that I didn’t need to buy any more bottles. The best part? It’s gentle on surfaces and doesn’t leave behind harsh chemical residues.
The cost savings are impressive, too. Instead of spending $20 on a bottle of all-purpose cleaner that lasts for a few months, I can make a large batch for under $5. I use a spray bottle and some basic ingredients, and I’ve been using the same one for over a year. It’s refreshing to know that I can keep my home clean without breaking the bank.[3]
Beyond the cost savings, making your own cleaning products is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint. Store-bought cleaners often come in plastic bottles that end up in landfills. By making your own, I’ve been able to cut down on the amount of plastic I use in my home. It feels good to know that I’m contributing to a more sustainable future.
Mix 1 cup of water, 1/2 cup of white vinegar, and 10 drops of lemon essential oil in a spray bottle. Shake well before using on surfaces.[4]
Part of our Frugal living tips guide.
Growing Your Own Herbs
I used to buy fresh herbs at the grocery store, only to find out that they were often expensive and didn’t last long. So I decided to try growing my own. I started with basil and mint, and within a few weeks, I had fresh herbs that I could use in my cooking. It felt amazing to know that I could walk into my kitchen and pull a sprig of basil from a small pot on the windowsill.
The cost savings are significant. A package of fresh basil at the grocery store can cost $3 to $5, and it doesn’t last more than a week. By growing my own, I’ve been able to harvest fresh herbs for weeks, and I’ve only spent a few dollars on seeds and pots. It’s a small investment with a big return.
Growing your own herbs also adds a sense of accomplishment and connection to the food you eat. Knowing that I cultivated the basil that now flavors my pasta sauce makes every meal feel more meaningful. Plus, it’s a great way to bring some greenery into my home and enjoy the little joys of gardening.
Growing your own herbs is like having a little garden in your kitchen — and the savings are real.
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Repurposing Old Clothes
I used to throw away clothes I no longer wore, not realizing how much potential they had. One day, I found an old t-shirt and decided to turn it into a tote bag. It was a simple process — just cut out the sleeves and hem the edges — and I ended up with a useful and stylish bag. I was amazed at how much I could do with just a few basic sewing tools.
The cost savings are obvious. Instead of buying a new tote bag for $10, I made one from an old shirt. It’s a great way to reduce waste and give new life to clothes that might otherwise end up in a landfill. Plus, the satisfaction of knowing that I created something from scratch is incredibly rewarding.[5]
Upcycling old clothes also allows you to be more creative with your fashion. I’ve turned old jeans into skirts, shirts into aprons, and even made a patchwork quilt from fabric scraps. It’s a fun way to express your style while also being mindful of the environment.
Take an old t-shirt, cut off the sleeves, and hem the edges. You can add a strap for extra durability.
“I remember the first time I realized how much money I was wasting on takeout.”— Frugalskills editors
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DIY Skincare
I used to spend $50 a month on skincare products, only to find out that many of them contained harsh chemicals. So I decided to try making my own. I started with a simple honey and oatmeal face mask, and it was a game-changer. The ingredients were all natural, and the results were noticeable — my skin felt softer and looked healthier.
The cost savings are huge. A jar of store-bought face mask can cost $15 or more, but I can make my own for less than $2. I’ve been using the same recipe for months, and it’s worked just as well as the expensive products. Plus, I know exactly what’s in my skincare routine, which makes me feel more in control of my health.
DIY skincare is also a great way to reduce your environmental impact. Many commercial skincare products come in plastic packaging that ends up in landfills. By making your own, I’ve been able to cut down on the amount of plastic I use and enjoy a more sustainable routine.
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Making Your Own Soap
I used to buy soaps for $3 to $5 each, not realizing how easy it was to make my own. I found a simple recipe using coconut oil, lye, and essential oils, and I was amazed at how it turned out. The soap was gentle on my skin and smelled amazing — I had to use it for weeks before I ran out.
The cost savings are incredible. A bar of commercial soap can last for a month, but it costs upwards of $15. By making my own, I can produce a large batch for under $10, and it lasts for months. Plus, I can customize the scent and texture to suit my preferences.
Making your own soap is also a great way to reduce your environmental impact. Many commercial soaps come in plastic packaging that ends up in landfills. By making your own, I’ve been able to cut down on the amount of plastic I use and enjoy a more sustainable routine.
⭐ Classic
The original recipe with white vinegar and lemon essential oil.
💰 Budget
A cost-effective version that uses only water and vinegar.
⚡ Extra-Fast
A no-mix option using pre-made vinegar solutions.
✨ Depth
A more complex version with additional essential oils for extra scent.
🥗 Light
A diluted version for sensitive surfaces.
| The mistake | Why it happens | The fix |
|---|---|---|
| Using too much essential oil. | Too much essential oil can make the cleaner too strong and potentially damage surfaces. | Use only 10 drops of essential oil per cup of vinegar and water. |
| Storing the cleaner in a warm place. | Warm temperatures can cause the cleaner to spoil faster. | Store the cleaner in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. |
| Using the wrong type of vinegar. | White vinegar is best for this recipe, as other types can leave a residue. | Always use white vinegar for the best results. |
| Not shaking the cleaner before use. | The ingredients can separate over time, and shaking ensures they’re mixed properly. | Shake the bottle well before each use. |
What You'll Need tap to check off
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 10 drops lemon essential oil
- spray bottle
Method tap a step when done
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of white vinegar and 1 cup of water.
- Add 10 drops of lemon essential oil and stir well.
- Pour the mixture into a spray bottle.
- Shake well before use on surfaces.
- Store in a cool, dry place.
Key Facts
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Diy Ways To Be Frugal
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Common Questions
How long does the DIY all-purpose cleaner last?
Can I use other essential oils in the cleaner?
Is the cleaner safe for all surfaces?
Can I use this cleaner on wood furniture?
References
- Find Your Frugal: Five money-saving tips for grocery shoppers (blogs.ifas.ufl.edu)
- PDF I've heard the term "frugal gardening" tossed around throughout my ... (chippewa.extension.wisc.edu)
- Ways to be Frugal - University of New Mexico (cs.unm.edu)
- PDF Money Management Tips: 55 Ways to Save Money - Illinois Extension (extension.illinois.edu)
- Eating Healthy on a Budget: The Ultimate Guide to Frugal Meal Planning (extension.usu.edu)
Cite this guide
Frugalskills (2026). Diy Ways To Be Frugal. https://frugalskills.com/diy-ways-to-be-frugal/
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