You're losing money if you're not doing these things around your home

Saving a few bucks here and there really adds up.

You're losing money if you're not doing these things around your home
Amazon
Shopping
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Ever take a quick look around your house and wonder where — if anywhere — you could make adjustments that might cut costs? Well, guess what? You can. Plus, it’s easier than you might think. I set out on a mission to find the best ways you can upgrade the efficiency of your living space, so you can save on monthly bills, your grocery budget, and everything in between. Armed with the help of a few key items on Amazon, you’ll be able to make these improvements in no time. So keep scrolling — because if you aren’t doing any of these things, you’re losing money. (You’re welcome.)

01Cleaning your dryer vents to maximize efficiency

This easy and effective dryer vent cleaner kit attaches to most home vacuums, helping you to remove hard-to-get lint buildup, which will improve drying power and help reduce your energy costs. And — keeping your dryer vents clean will not only ensure your machine is working optimally but also reduce safety hazards, too. For the cost of less than two lattes, it’s a no-brainer.

02Using wool dryer balls instead of dryer sheets

By sticking these reusable wool dryer balls in with your laundry, you can save on dryer sheets and fabric softener — while also reducing your energy bill. How? The wool balls separate your laundry, helping to speed drying time by up to 25%. They’re 100% natural, making them a good choice for anyone with sensitivities, and reusable for up to 1,000 loads.

03Getting every last drop of toothpaste out of the tube

Contain toothpaste mess — and squeeze out every last drop — with this four-pack of toothpaste squeezers. Each squeezer slides onto the end of a tube, and pushes the paste up, helping to avoid so-called “paste waste.” This’ll help you save money on daily essentials by ensuring you get every bit of what you paid for.

04Sealing the gap under your door to block drafts

Keep cold drafts out and warm air in with this door draft stopper. Made with adjustable and flexible silicone for a reliable seal, it can be attached to the bottom of your externally facing doors to cover the gap, which will keep heat from escaping in winter and air conditioning from leaking out in the summer. It’s easy to apply, remove, and even offers water resistance for wet, rainy weather.

  • Available colors: 4

05Using these silicone lids instead of plastic wrap

Instead of hauling out the plastic wrap after dinner, try using these silicone lids to keep your leftovers fresh. The set comes with seven stretchy lids that can fit over a variety of containers — both square and round — where they create an airtight, leakproof fit. They’re BPA free and safe for the dishwasher, microwave, and freezer.

06Touching up wood furniture so that it looks as good as new

If damaged furniture has you considering buying a replacement, give these furniture repair markers and crayons a try first. With shades like cherry and walnut, you can easily mask signs of wear by filling in scratches and scrapes, while evening out the look of fading on your wooden pieces. It’s an instant cosmetic improvement for any unsightly flaws, and you’ll be saving money by fixing instead of replacing.

07Storing your deli meat to keep it as fresh as possible

Deli meat can be expensive and tends to expire quickly, which is why this Mini Deli ProKeeper is a genius idea. Made with an insulating silicone seal, it keeps both meats and cheeses fresh, and features a grooved bottom to keep messy juices and other liquids away. For safety, you can even write expiration dates right on the cover with a dry-erase marker.

  • Available sizes: 4

08Keeping your charging cords from fraying

Maximize the life of your charging cables with these silicone cable protectors. Wrap the highly flexible spirals around the base of your cables to reduce fraying, tangling, and additional damage caused by everyday use. And since each set comes with multiple colors, you can use them as an easy way to organize and identify cables, too.

  • Available colors: 4

09Removing pet fur with a reusable roller instead of sticky tape

Reduce waste and costs by using this reusable lint roller and pet hair remover instead of the traditional sticky tape. Just run the velveteen roller back and forth over the surface you want to clean, and fur, hair, and lint will be gathered into the receptacle. Use it over and over again without worrying about if there are “any sheets left.”

10Using a thermometer to prevent overcooking your meat

Prevent overcooking and undercooking your meat and instead, achieve a perfect dish each time by using a reliable meat thermometer. This highly rated digital meat thermometer gives an instant three-second reading that’s displayed on an easy-to-read backlit screen. Plus, the built-in magnet lets you store it right on your fridge or the grill.

11Mopping with reusable microfiber pads instead of one-and-dones

Reduce your spending and household waste by mopping with these reusable, washable microfiber mop pads with a stellar 4.7-star overall rating on Amazon. Offering superior absorption for wet mopping when compared to disposable pads, this set of two easily attaches to most mop heads for instant use. When finished, they can be washed in your home machine. It’s a simple swap that makes a big difference.

12Keeping your herbs as fresh as possible so they last longer

Keep costly herbs fresher for longer with this herb keeper that extends their life by up to three whole weeks. The tall size is ideal for herbs with height and even veggies like asparagus. Made from BPA-free plastic with a stainless steel core, the container has a chamber for water and vents for airflow. By keeping herbs fresh, this container will save you on your grocery bill and reduce waste.

13Keeping your batteries organized so you don’t buy any you don’t need

Avoid panic buying batteries unnecessarily and instead, keep your stash organized and accessible with this battery organizer and tester. Holding up to 93 batteries total, this organizer can be used in a drawer or wall mounted for even better visibility. It also includes a battery tester for on-the-spot checks to make sure they’re still working.

14Making your own lattes at home with this milk frother

If specialty coffees are your thing, then you know how expensive they can be. Make your own drinks at home using this battery-operated milk frother. In seconds, the stainless steel wand transforms your favorite milks or nut milks into foamy, frothy goodness that instantly elevates your at-home sipping experience. One-button operation makes it a breeze to use, and the included stand means you can store it right next to your coffee machine.

  • Available colors: 8

15Organizing your fridge to reduce food waste

Keep things organized, visible, and easily accessible in your fridge with this set of six organizer bins. This transparent, shatter-proof set includes bins of various sizes, as well as one dedicated specifically to eggs and another to beverage cans. By seeing all your food at a glance, you’ll be sure to use everything, which will reduce waste and lower your grocery bill, too.

16Storing food in reusable bags instead of single-use plastic

Another budget-minded, eco-friendly swap? Switching to reusable food storage bags instead of using throw-away plastic versions. These non-toxic bags are leakproof, with reliable pinch-lock seals that keep food fresh and protected. Use them in the fridge or the freezer knowing that just one bag can save up to 350 disposable plastic bags.

17Preventing costly drain clogs with this hair catcher

Prevent clogged drains before they start with the TubShroom, a drain protector that collects hair and other debris with clogging potential before it can build up and cause a costly plumber visit. Just stick it in your drain, where hair strands will wrap around the cylinder, then lift it out occasionally to clean it off. The best part? The perforations will keep the water flowing.

  • Available colors: 6

18Growing your own herbs instead of buying them

Herbs can be expensive, but growing your own can save you money and you’ll feel good knowing exactly where your produce came from — you. With this indoor herb garden kit, you can grow your own parsley, thyme, basil, and cilantro. The kit includes everything you need: seeds, shears, grow bags, soil, plant markers, and a planter. You can even opt for a kit that’ll help you grow your own tea-drinking herbs, like chamomile and lemon balm.

  • Available options: 4

19Maintaining the temperature in your home with insulated curtains

Give yourself more control over the temperature inside your home with these thermal-insulated curtains. A great way to save on your energy bill, these linen-style curtains also block light, so you can get better sleep. They’re available in 16 colors and 14 sizes, and fitted with metal grommets to slide smoothly along the curtain rod.

  • Available colors: 16
  • Available sizes: 14

20Using clear food organizers to reduce waste & overbuying

These clear food storage containers are a great way to keep staples fresh while organizing your pantry. They’re equipped with rubber seals for freshness and lids that are universally sized, so you don’t have to bother with trying to find a match. The set comes with chalkboard labels, so you can easily delineate between items like flour and powdered sugar.

21Using smart plugs to turn electronics on & off from anywhere

Ever leave home and waste electricity by leaving lights and appliances on? With these smart plugs by Kasa, it’s a worry of the past. Using the Kasa phone app, you can control plugged-in items from anywhere at any time — or you can simply set them on timers or schedules. They’re also smart assistant compatible if you’re in the mood to use voice commands.

22Opting for a space heater instead of cranking the thermostat

When certain rooms feel colder than others, don’t crank up the heat — opt to use this mini ceramic space heater instead. Pint-sized at just 6 by 6 inches, it’s got a footprint that’s ideal for desks or countertops. Heating up in just seconds, it has over 20,000 perfect five-star reviews and is a much cheaper alternative than turning up the thermostat.

  • Available colors: 4

23Swapping out your paper towels for these versatile & reusable cloths

Paper towel costs add up, so try sopping up spills with these Swedish dishcloths instead. Made with plant-based materials, each cloth is highly absorbent and can replace up to 18 rolls of paper towels. Plus, the machine-washable cloths are versatile — use them to scrub dishes and kitchen surfaces, too.

24Cooking in batches & freezing some for later

Instead of shelling out for delivery, try prepping and freezing meals ahead of time and storing them in these freezer trays. The freezer trays are outfitted with 1-cup wells — add a portion of soup or stew, then pop out one serving at a time to defrost when you’re ready to eat. The set comes with two trays, each with a lid for convenient storage.

25Protecting your furniture from your cat’s claws

If your cat has a tendency to wreak havoc on the side of your sofa, it’s time to protect your investment with these cat scratch shields. The tough but flexible shields are backed with adhesive for easy application, but you can also use the included twist pins for a more snug fit. With these in place, you won’t have to replace or reupholster your couch any time soon.

26Removing your makeup with a reusable towel

Disposable makeup wipes are costly, wasteful, and not the gentlest on your skin, either. But with the super soft and reusable MakeUp Eraser, you can gently remove foundation, eyeliner, and even waterproof mascara in a few seconds — just add water. One side is for cleansing and the other is for exfoliating, making it a two-in-one essential for anyone who wears makeup.

  • Available colors: 9

27Protecting your hardwood floors with these chair leg covers

Keep your floors in great shape — and avoid chips and scratches from heavy chairs or stools — with this 16-pack of chair leg covers. Made from stretchy silicone with protective felt bottoms, these simply slide over the bottoms of chair legs, so they glide seamlessly over your floors.

  • Available colors: 16
  • Available sizes: 5

28Using these water leak sensors to prevent costly damage

Avoid unpleasant (and super expensive) surprises in water-prone areas with this Wi-Fi water sensor. It sounds an alarm or sends notifications to your phone as soon as it detects water drips or accumulation. Just connect it with the compatible app, and you’ll have peace of mind whether you’re home or away — because the sooner you can get to the area of concern, the less likely it is you’ll have to deal with expensive water damage later.

  • Available options: 2

29Keeping snacks fresh with these fan-favorite bag clips

These colorful food bag clips are made from rust-proof stainless steel and feature full-coverage silicone edges for a snug seal. At 3 inches in length — and with a 1.1-inch opening — these provide superior clipping coverage and can even handle bulkier bags. Boasting a 4.7-star overall rating on Amazon, you can use them for chips, coffee, crackers, and more.

30Adding extra support to your sagging couch instead of replacing it

These couch cushion inserts are made from military-grade foam and renew th appearance of sagging couch cushions, while restoring density and improving comfort. The main piece is 1.5-inch thick, and can be inserted right inside the cover, underneath the existing cushion. An extra “posture zone” insert of 0.5-inch is included if needed.

  • Available sizes: 3

31Wrapping up in a warm fleece blanket instead of turning up the heat

Before you turn up the heat (and your electricity bill) try snuggling with this classic flannel fleece blanket first. Made with premium microfiber for enhanced softness, it’s warm without being too thick, so you can cuddle up without a bunch of bulk. It’s available in 33 colors and seven sizes from throw to king.

  • Available colors: 33
  • Available sizes: 7

32Giving your grout new life with a quick touch-up

This grout paint and sealant pen helps restore and freshen up your tile surfaces wherever you need it. Much cheaper than completing a bathroom renovation, it features a precision tip and fast-drying action, ensuring each project is accurate, quick, and odor-free. Each pen covers about 150 feet worth of grout.

33Getting stains out of clothes the first time with a spray that has over 37,000 5-star reviews

This Miss Mouth’s Messy Eater spray is a great way to treat stains and get them out before they become a real problem. Crafted from a formula that doesn’t include peroxide or chlorine bleach, this spray has over 37,000 five-star reviews on Amazon, including one from someone who states they “can't live without this product anymore.” It even works on set-in stains, and can easily be thrown in a purse or backpack.

34Using a planner to help you organize your budget

This budget planning book is a great way to help you stay on track with your finances. Inside, you’ll find clearly marked sections to help you keep tabs on debt, bills, expenses, and savings, and you’ll also find entries for setting goals. Made from faux leather, it features an elastic-band closure and pen holder.

  • Available colors: 10

35Using night-lights with motion sensors to conserve energy

These plug-in night-lights have dusk-to-dawn sensors, so they automatically turn on and off as needed, which means you won’t be losing money on night-lights you forget to turn off in the morning. Featuring a minimalist, cylindrical frame, they emit light from both the top and bottom, and won’t block the bottom outlet. Last but not least, each one has a slider that lets you dim the brightness.

  • Available colors: 3

36Storing shirts on these hangers that are designed not to stretch out the necks

These rubber-coated hangers are built with notches under the hooks, so you can store crew-neck or high-neck shirts without stretching out the collars. These extra-durable hangers also have rubberized grips for slippery tops, as well as 360-degree swiveling hooks. With an accessory bar and a bottom pants bar, these versatile hangers can do it all for your closet.

  • Available colors: 3

37Storing your coffee beans in this freshness-preserving canister

If you spend money on good coffee, this stainless steel coffee canister is the perfect way to keep coffee beans or grounds fresh. It features an airtight seal as well as a CO2 release valve that regulates oxygen and carbon dioxide. The lid also has a freshness date tracker, so you know how old each batch is.

  • Available colors: 4
  • Available sizes: 3

38Keeping your clothes fresh & moth free with cedar blocks

These aromatic cedar blocks not only ensure freshness in your closets and dresser drawers, but they also help fend off moths to keep fabrics in good shape. Made from 100% natural eastern red cedar, these blocks are shaped to hang on any closet rod, and can also be placed flat in a drawer. A spray bottle of natural cedar oil is also included in the set.

39Preserving your pantry goods with a cabinet dehumidifier

Keep spices and other pantry goods from dampness with this mini dehumidifier. Effective for spaces up to 333 cubic feet, the cordless humidifier works to absorb moisture without taking up a lot of space. The water-absorbing power works for up to 30 days before the unit needs to be recharged, which is simple: Simply plug right into the wall.