How to Cut Costs On Everyday Expenses, Part 2

Here's the rest of my epic "mini-series" on simple and easy ways to save on household (or regular) expenses.
These methods are all tried and true!

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Just that same desire to save and a willingness to try these cost-cutting ways (thus having more money!)

1. 

   WATER
   
   Don't let the water run while you're brushing your teeth (and if you've run out of toothpaste, just mix some baking soda with salt). Keep a couple of old toothbrushes around; they're great for cleaning jewelry.
   Add water to almost-empty bottles of dishwashing liquid or shampoo. You'll get every last drop.
   Don't take long showers.
   Don't leave taps running (five gallons of water a minute can go down the drain!).
   Keep a bottle of water in the fridge.

2. 

   FINANCES
   
   Bank any unexpected or "windfall" money.
   If you HAVE to use an ATM (automatic teller machine), only use those at your own bank to avoid service charges.
   Use cash as much as possible.
   Buy printed checks from mail-order companies.
   If you're able to, try for a FREE checking account.
   Prepare your own tax returns.
   For those still employed, sign up for any automatic savings plans or deductions the company offers.
   Open a savings account that compounds and pays interest daily.
   If you use money orders, shop around. The charges vary.
   Keep a record of your spending to become aware of where your money goes.

3. 

   FOR EXTRA INCOME
   
   At the end of each day, put aside all your loose change. Then deposit it regularly at week's end. It adds up!
   Have a garage sale.
   Donate old clothes to a charity for a tax deduction.
   Make craft items to sell at local, state and county fairs.
   If you have clerical skills, have a pleasant speaking voice or BOTH, you can work at home-as an online office assistant, call center representative, online tutor or an online content writer/producer for websites-like ehow!
   Kids who are old enough can work to earn extra cash-mowing lawns, running errands for neighbors or petsitting.
   Sell old clothing, furniture and other items through thrift or consignment shops.
   Cook meals for elderly people in your neighborhood.
   If you were good at a particular subject in school, or are currently a "mini-expert" on several topics, consider becoming a tutor at a local school, community college, or learning center.

4. 

   GENERAL
   
   Grow your own herbs (NOT marijuana!).
   E-mail (or write)a fan letter to companies whose products you like. You may receive coupons, often for free items.
   Clean windows with newspapers instead of paper towels.
   Go to the movies in the afternoon, instead of evening.
   Enter all the contests you can, as often as you can-as long as they're FREE.
   Dress up or just add accessories to an outfit that you already own instead of a new one.
   Grow plants from seeds or cuttings to give as gifts.
   If possible, buy gifts and holiday decorations for the next season when they go on sale after the current holiday's over.
   Instead of eating out, buy take-out food and eat at home.
   If you have just one or two (maybe three) pairs of underwear that need cleaning, use some dishwashing liquid and hand-wash them.
   Get rid of unnecessory luxuries.
   If feasible, use public transportation.
   Don't buy on impulse.
   Make long-distance calls only during the cheapest time period.
   Watch out for any "rent-to-own"; avoid if possible.
   Sew as much as possible. If you don't know how, learn (It WILL come in handy).