The Great Depression was a tough time that taught people how to stretch every penny. Our grandparents and great-grandparents learned clever ways to save money and make things last longer. These skills helped them survive hard times and became habits they kept for life. Even though times have changed, many of their money-saving tricks are still useful today.
In this blog, I’ll share 25 smart tricks that Depression-era folks used to save money. These tips aren’t just old-fashioned ideas—they’re practical ways to cut costs and waste less in our modern world.
Reuse and repurpose
Give your old stuff a second life instead of throwing it away. Turn old shirts into cleaning rags or use empty jars as containers. Paint old furniture to make it look new again. This saves money and keeps useful things out of the trash.
Make your own laundry detergent
Mix basic ingredients like borax, washing soda, and grated soap. This homemade detergent cleans just as well as store-bought versions, but it’s much cheaper and lasts a long time. You can also customize the scent with essential oils if you like.
Use a clothesline
Hang your laundry to dry instead of using a dryer. Clotheslines save on electricity and are gentler on your clothes. Your laundry will smell fresh from the outdoor air. In winter, use indoor drying racks near a heat source.
Start a compost pile
Turn food scraps and yard waste into rich soil for your garden. Composting reduces garbage and saves money on fertilizer. It’s a natural way to improve your soil quality. You’ll be amazed at how much less trash you produce.
Learn to mend clothes
Fix small holes, replace buttons, and patch worn areas. Mending extends the life of your clothes significantly. It’s a useful skill that saves money on replacements. You can even turn mending into a creative activity by using decorative stitches.
Make your own pet toys
Create toys for your pets using household items. With a little creativity, your old socks can become dog chew toys. Cardboard boxes make great cat playhouses. Homemade toys are often safer and more durable than store-bought ones. Your pets won’t know the difference, but your wallet will.
Repurpose glass jars
Don’t toss out those empty pickles, jam, and sauce jars. They’re great for keeping leftover food, sorting tiny objects, or even cups. Unlike plastic, glass containers are long-lasting and won’t hold onto smells. These jars can also add a nice touch, particularly when you’re making presents by hand.
Learn basic car maintenance
Tasks such as changing your own oil, and air filters, and keeping tires properly inflated can be easily done with the aid of today’s technology. These simple tasks can save a lot on mechanic fees. Learning regular maintenance also extends the life of your car. There are many online tutorials to help you learn these skills.
Use a pressure cooker
A pressure cooker allows you to cook meals faster and use less energy. It’s great for tough cuts of meat and dried beans, and pressure cooking often preserves more nutrients in food. It’s also a time-saver for busy weeknights.
Make your own fertilizer
Use eggshells, coffee grounds, and banana peels in your garden. These kitchen scraps make great natural fertilizers. They’re free and better for the environment than chemical fertilizers. Your plants will thrive with these nutrients.
Upcycle furniture
Transform old furniture with paint, new hardware, or reupholstering. You can turn worn-out pieces into stylish, unique items. This saves money on new furniture and keeps usable items out of landfills. It’s a great way to express your creativity and refresh your living space.
Make your own bread
Bake your own bread instead of buying it. Homemade bread is cheaper and tastier than store-bought. You control the ingredients, avoiding preservatives and additives. The smell of fresh bread also makes your home feel cozy and welcoming.
Learn to cut hair
Cut your family’s hair at home instead of going to a salon. Basic haircuts are easy to learn with practice. This can save a significant amount of money over time. It’s also convenient, especially for quick trims between proper cuts.
Make your own yogurt
Create homemade yogurt using milk and a small amount of store-bought yogurt as a starter. It’s much cheaper than buying yogurt regularly. Homemade yogurt is free from added sugars and preservatives. You can flavor it however you like.
Start a neighborhood exchange
Organize a system to share tools and equipment with neighbors. This saves everyone money on items that aren’t used often. It’s a great way to build community connections. You might even make new friends in the process.
Repair appliances
Try to fix broken appliances before replacing them. Many issues have simple solutions you can do yourself. This can save hundreds on new appliances. Even if you can’t fix it, you’ll learn more about how things work.
Preserve food
Try your hand at preserving fruits and veggies through canning. Save time on busy days by freezing extra portions of your meals. If you grow herbs, dry them to use later. By learning to preserve food, you can stock up when prices are low or crops are plentiful. Plus, it’s a valuable skill that links you to the practices of your ancestors.
Embrace simple pleasures
Find joy in free activities like walks in nature, reading, or spending time with loved ones. Happiness doesn’t have to cost money. Focusing on simple pleasures can lead to a more content and financially stable life. It’s about valuing experiences over things.
Use coupons wisely
Collect coupons for items you regularly buy. But don’t let coupons tempt you into unnecessary purchases. Combine coupons with sales for the biggest savings. Remember, it’s only a good deal if you actually need the item.
DIY beauty treatments
Make your own face masks, hair treatments, and body scrubs. Natural ingredients like honey, avocado, and oatmeal work wonders. DIY beauty treatments are often healthier for your skin and hair. Plus, they’re a fun way to pamper yourself without the spa price tag.
Walk or bike when possible
Save on gas and car maintenance by using your own two feet. Walking or biking is also good for your health and the environment. For longer trips, look into carpooling or public transportation. You might be surprised how much you can save on transportation costs.
Use the library
Borrow books, movies, and magazines instead of buying them. Many libraries also offer free internet access and educational programs. Using the library supports your community while saving you money. It’s a great way to learn new things without spending a dime.
Embrace second-hand shopping
Look for clothes, furniture, and household items at thrift stores or yard sales. You can find great quality items for a fraction of the new price. Second-hand shopping is also good for the environment. It’s like a treasure hunt – you never know what you might find.
Plan your meals
Make a weekly meal plan and shopping list. This helps avoid impulse buys and reduces food waste. Planning meals also saves time during busy weekdays. You can even prep some meals ahead for extra convenience.
Grow your own food
Start a small garden, even if it’s just herbs on your windowsill. Fresh produce from your garden saves money at the grocery store. Growing food also teaches patience and connects you with nature. Plus, homegrown veggies often taste better than store-bought ones.
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