A thrifty mom diy recipes crafts online deals amazon deals

As a busy mom, you’re always looking for ways to save time and money. A thrifty mom diy recipes crafts online deals amazon deals. Between work, errands, household chores, and caring for your family, your budget and schedule are stretched thin. However, with some clever tricks up your sleeve, you can slash thousands from your annual expenses without sacrificing quality time. By embracing do-it-yourself projects, home cooking, and hunting for the best online deals, you’ll gain valuable life skills and set a great example for your kids. Follow these thrift-inspired tips to keep more cash in your pocket and put more adventure in your days. With the right mindset, saving money can be fun and rewarding for the whole family.

DIY Cleaning Supplies: Save Hundreds Each Year

Making your own DIY cleaning supplies is an easy way to cut hundreds from your budget each year. With a few simple ingredients and recipes, you can whip up effective alternatives to expensive commercial products.

All-Purpose Cleaner

A simple all-purpose cleaner can tackle most messes in your home. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. The vinegar cuts through grease and grime while disinfecting surfaces. Label and date the bottle, and it will last for several months.

Disinfecting Wipes

Disposable wipes are convenient but pricey. Make your own by filling a sealable container with 2 cups of water, 1/4 cup of white vinegar, and 1/4 cup of rubbing alcohol. A thrifty mom diy recipes crafts online deals amazon deals Add clean cloth rags, paper towels, or disposable wipes and seal. The alcohol disinfects while the vinegar deodorizes.

Drain Cleaner

Commercial drain cleaners contain harsh chemicals. For clogs, pour 1/2 cup of baking soda down the drain followed by 1/2 cup of vinegar. Cover and let sit 15 minutes, then flush with boiling water. For maintenance, mix 1/2 cup of salt and 1/2 cup of baking soda and pour down drains once a month.

Laundry Detergent

A simple powdered detergent contains washing soda, Borax, grated bar soap, and essential oils (optional). Mix 2 parts washing soda, 2 parts Borax, and 1 part grated soap. Add 10-15 drops of essential oil for fragrance if desired. Use 1-2 tablespoons per load.

Making DIY cleaning supplies is an easy way to save money while avoiding harsh chemicals. Give these recipes a try and keep your home sparkling clean and green.

Meal Planning on a Budget: 5 Family-Friendly Recipes Under $30

To feed a family of four for under $30 a week, meticulous meal planning is a must. Review weekly ads to find the best deals on staples like rice, beans, and seasonal produce. Stock up on sale items and plan meals around them.

Five budget-friendly, kid-approved recipes:

1. Vegetarian chili – Dice onions, carrots and bell peppers and sauté in olive oil. Add chili spices like cumin, oregano, and chili powder. Stir in diced tomatoes, kidney beans, pinto beans and vegetable broth. Simmer for 30 minutes. Serve with cornbread or rice. Total cost: $15.
2. Lentil soup – Sauté onions, carrots and celery in olive oil. Add broth, lentils, potatoes and carrots. Simmer for 30-40 minutes until lentils are tender. Season with thyme, bay leaves and pepper. Hearty, nourishing and under $10 total.
3. Bean and cheese burritos – Warm pinto or black beans, mash slightly. Mix in cheese, salsa and spices. Roll up in large flour tortillas with rice, lettuce and avocado. Bake at 350 F for 15 minutes. Cost: $12 for a family of four.
4. Pasta primavera – Sauté seasonal veggies like zucchini, spinach and bell peppers in olive oil with garlic and herbs. Toss with whole wheat pasta, parmesan and pasta sauce. Nutritious, delicious and only $8 total.
5. Omelets for dinner – Whip up individual omelets or a large frittata with fillings like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms and cheese. Serve with a simple salad. A thrifty mom diy recipes crafts online deals amazon deals Cost: $10 or less for a family of four.

With a well-stocked pantry and weekly meal plans focused on plant-based ingredients, budget-friendly homemade meals are within reach. Your family and your wallet will thank you.

How I Get Amazon Deals for Pennies (Yes, Really!)

Amazon frequently offers deals and coupons to help customers save money on purchases. As an avid deal hunter, I’ve learned a few tricks over the years to score even lower prices on items I need and want. By following these strategies, you too can get amazing deals on Amazon.

Check for Amazon Coupons

Before making any purchase on Amazon, search online for available coupons and promo codes to apply at checkout. Sites like RetailMeNot, Coupons.com, and Bargainist offer verified coupon codes for Amazon that can save you 5-20% or more on your order. When you go to check out, simply enter the code in the “Gift cards & promotional codes” box to redeem it.

Look for Lightning Deals and Coupon Offers

If there’s no coupon currently available for what you want to buy, check if it’s available as an Amazon Lightning Deal or Coupon Offer. Lightning Deals are short-term sales, usually only lasting a few hours. You can find the current Lightning Deals on the Amazon Gold Box page. Coupon Offers are also time-limited deals where Amazon provides a coupon for $5-$20 off certain products. Both of these options can save you a bundle if you catch them at the right time.

Check the Amazon Warehouse

The Amazon Warehouse sells returned, used, and refurbished items at steep discounts. You can often find products for 20-80% off the original retail price. While selection varies, the Warehouse frequently has popular items like electronics, home goods, tools, and more. Be sure to check the condition details to know what you’re getting, as products range from “like new” to “acceptable.” If you don’t mind a little wear and tear, the Warehouse can be a gold mine for deals.

Compare Prices Elsewhere

Before hitting the “Add to Cart” button, compare the price you see on Amazon to other major retailers like Walmart, Target, Home Depot, and Wayfair. Use a price comparison tool like Nextag, The Honey Chrome extension, or simply search for the item on other sites. You may be able to find an even lower price, especially if you include coupon codes. If you do see a better deal, try chatting with an Amazon customer service rep to ask if they can match or beat the competitor’s price. Many times, they will work with you to win your business.

By utilizing these money-saving strategies, you’ll be scoring Amazon deals for a fraction of the usual cost in no time. With a little patience and persistence, you really can get just about anything on Amazon for pennies. Happy saving!

Crafts to Keep the Kids Busy for Less Than $10

As a thrifty mom, keeping the kids occupied during summer break or school holidays can be challenging. However, with some creativity, you can craft engaging activities A thrifty mom diy recipes crafts online deals amazon deals for the children without breaking the bank. Here are a few kid-friendly craft ideas for under $10 to get you started:

\n\n###Paper Plate Crafts

Paper plates are an inexpensive crafting material with lots of potential. Have the kids decorate plain white plates to make colorful clocks, fans, flowers or animals. They can glue on ribbons, buttons, tissue paper and more. Another idea is to cut paper plates in half and attach them together with brass fasteners to make flapping butterfly or bird puppets.

\n\n###Paper Bag Puppets

Brown paper lunch bags also work great for crafting puppets. Have your kids decorate the bags to make animals, people or storybook characters. They can add construction paper shapes, stickers, markers, glitter, felt, buttons and more to personalize their puppets. Put on a puppet show or use the puppets to act out a favorite story together.

\n\n###Painted Plant Pots

For a fun outdoor project, have the kids paint and decorate basic terra cotta plant pots. They can paint animals, shapes, their names or handprints on the pots. Seal the pots with acrylic sealant and fill them with soil and seeds to grow a mini garden. The kids will enjoy tending to the plants they decorated.

\n\n###DIY Kites

On a windy day, fly colorful kites made from materials you already have. Decorate plastic bags, paper bags or trash bags with stickers, markers and streamers to make simple kites. Tape or glue the decorations on and attach a ball of string and you’re ready to go fly a kite. For stability, you can attach a wooden dowel or plastic rod to the kite.

With some imagination, you can keep the little ones entertained all summer without spending a fortune. Check out local dollar stores, craft stores and your recycling bin for more low-cost crafting materials and inspiration. Get creative and most importantly, have fun with your kids!

How to Save Big on Groceries Each Week

To save big on your grocery bill each week, there are several effective strategies you can implement. By planning meals, using coupons, and buying generic or in-season produce, you can cut your costs significantly A thrifty mom diy recipes crafts online deals amazon deals.

Meal Planning

The first step to saving money on groceries is planning your meals for the week ahead. Make a list of dinners you want to make and the ingredients needed for each recipe. Check your pantry and fridge for items you already have to avoid overbuying. Buy only what’s on your list when you go shopping. Meal planning also allows you to take advantage of sales on meats and produce by buying extras to use in multiple meals or freeze for later.

Use Coupons

Search online for digital coupons from stores where you regularly shop to save on your must-have items. Check sites like Coupons.com, SmartSource.com or your grocer’s website or app. You can also find coupon mailers in your local paper. Buy larger sizes or multiples when you have a coupon and your pantry space allows. The more you buy, the more you save.

Buy Generic or In-Season

Opt for store brand or generic items instead of name brands. They often cost 30-50% less and provide good quality. Produce that’s in season is also typically cheaper. Buy berries in summer, squash in fall and citrus in winter. Stock up on sale produce and preserve some by freezing, canning or dehydrating.

Additional Tips

A few other ways to cut your grocery bill:

•Shop less frequently, like once every 1-2 weeks. This avoids impulse buys and extra trips.

•Buy discounted gift cards to use at your regular stores. You can often save 5-10% or more.

•Don’t go shopping when hungry. You’re more likely to make unplanned purchases.

•Buy from warehouse clubs or in bulk when possible and split with a friend.

•Compare prices online to find the best deals. Some stores will match lower prices from competitors.

Following these useful tips and strategies will empower you to gain control of your grocery budget and keep more money in your wallet each month. With regular practice of meal planning, using coupons and buying smart, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a thrifty grocery shopper.

Best Apps and Websites for Scoring Online Deals

To save money through online deals and discounts, some of the best free apps and websites to utilize are:

Slickdeals

Slickdeals is a crowdsourced platform where users post the best deals they find from major retailers like Amazon, Walmart, Target and more. A thrifty mom diy recipes crafts online deals amazon deals You can filter deals by store, category, coupon code or just browse the front page for the newest and most popular offers. Slickdeals also has useful price comparison tools to make sure you’re getting the lowest available price.

RetailMeNot

RetailMeNot focuses specifically on coupons and promo codes for thousands of stores. You can search for coupon codes for a specific store you want to shop at or just browse through the listings for the most popular retailers. RetailMeNot also provides coupon codes for food delivery, entertainment, travel and local deals in many areas. They have apps for both iOS and Android so you can easily save money wherever you’re shopping.

Honey

The Honey extension automatically finds and applies coupon codes at checkout for over 30,000 stores. Once you install the Chrome extension, Honey will automatically scan for working coupon codes and promo codes while you shop and apply the one with the biggest discount. A thrifty mom diy recipes crafts online deals amazon deals If no codes are found, Honey will also notify you in case any are released later. Honey can save you time hunting for coupon codes and ensure you get the best deal.

Other useful deal-finding apps and websites include:

Amazon – Daily deals, coupons and the highly-rated product recommendations.

eBay – A large marketplace for new and used items often at steep discounts.

Groupon – Discounts on local experiences, travel, goods and services in your area.

Living Social – Similar to Groupon with deals for dining, entertainment and travel.

Google Shopping – Price comparison tool to quickly find the lowest price across stores.

By using a combination of these free deal-finding services, you’ll be well on your way to saving thousands per year on your regular shopping. Be sure to also follow your favorite stores on social media or subscribe to their newsletters to get exclusive coupon codes and flash sale announcements.

How to Save on Kids’ Activities Without Sacrificing Fun

One of the biggest expenses for families with children are activities outside of school like sports, clubs, tutoring and camps. However, there are many ways to cut costs in this area without depriving your kids of enjoyable and meaningful pursuits.

Look for free or low-cost options in your community.

Check with your local parks and recreation department, library, schools, and community centers for free or affordable programs. They frequently offer activities like sports, games, crafts, volunteering, and tutoring at little or no cost. Some private businesses like gyms, music schools, and children’s museums also have scholarships or sliding-scale fees available.

Buy used gear and supplies.

Equipment and uniforms for kids’ activities can be expensive, especially if they’re only used for one season. Search garage sales, thrift stores, and websites like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace and Nextdoor for used gear, which is typically a fraction of the retail price. You can also organize clothing and equipment swaps with other families.

Look for online deals and coupons.

For paid activities, search for promotional codes and coupons to save on registration and participation fees. Retailers like Groupon, Living Social and Course Hero frequently offer discounts for camps, tutoring, online classes and more. Check sites like RetailMeNot, Coupons.com, and DealsPlus for promo codes to save on activity-related purchases from retailers like Dick’s Sporting Goods, Joann Fabrics, and others.

Buy activity supplies in bulk.

If your kids participate in activities that require certain supplies, consider buying key items in larger sizes or quantities. Things like craft supplies, sporting equipment, and musical instruments are often much more affordable when purchased in bulk. Divide up the supplies among families to save even more. Buying higher quality supplies that last longer is also more economical in the long run.

With some searching and creativity, you can find ways for your kids to enjoy hobbies, clubs, and camps without breaking the bank. Keeping them active and engaged doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your budget or financial goals. The key is looking for deals and less expensive alternatives so you can provide them with opportunities for learning and growth at a price you can afford.

Affordable Self-Care for Busy Moms: DIY Spa Treatments and More

As a busy mom, self-care often falls to the bottom of your to-do list. However, taking time for yourself is vital to avoid burnout and maintain your health and sanity. Here are some affordable DIY spa treatments you can do at home:

Essential Oil Bath

Draw a warm bath and add 10-15 drops of essential oils like lavender, bergamot or chamomile which have calming properties. Soak for at least 30 minutes to relieve stress and relax your muscles.

DIY Face Mask

Make an easy face mask with ingredients from your pantry. Mash half an avocado and mix with 1 tablespoon honey for hydration. Apply to your face and neck, then rinse off after 15 minutes. For brightening, mix 1 tablespoon yogurt or milk and 1 tablespoon turmeric. The lactic acid and turmeric help reduce pigmentation and brighten skin.

Sugar Scrub

Exfoliate your skin with a homemade sugar scrub. Mix 3 parts sugar (white or brown) and 1 part oil (coconut, olive or almond). Add 10-15 drops essential oil (optional). Gently massage onto your body and face, then rinse off. The scrub removes dead skin cells leaving you feeling soft and rejuvenated.

Head Massage

Unwind with a soothing head massage. Apply a few drops of warm coconut or argan oil to your scalp and hair. Gently comb through to distribute evenly. Next, use your fingertips to apply firm pressure and small circular motions on your scalp. Massage your temples, behind your ears and the base of your skull. Continue for 10-15 minutes to relieve tension and induce relaxation.

Pampering yourself at home is an inexpensive way to care for your wellbeing. With a few simple ingredients and a bit of your time, you can craft spa treatments tailored to your needs and reclaim moments of self-care in your busy schedule. Your mind, body and budget will thank you.

FAQs: How This Thrifty Mom Saves Thousands

As a thrifty mom, saving money is always a top priority. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about how I save thousands each year through DIY projects, recipes, and finding the best deals.

\n\n### How much does DIY and homemade actually save?

Doing things yourself and making items from scratch can save a substantial amount of money. Some examples:

• Sewing my own curtains saved over $200. Fabric and supplies cost under $50.
• Baking cookies, cakes and breads saves $5 to $10 per item. Over the course of a year, that’s hundreds of dollars.
• Growing a garden and preserving the harvest through canning and freezing saves $20 to $30 per week in the summer and fall.

The more you do yourself, the more your savings will add up. With some practice, DIY and homemade also become second nature.

\n\n### Where are the best places to find deals online?

I frequently check sites like Slickdeals, RetailMeNot and Bargainist for the latest promo codes and coupons to save on everything from groceries to gifts. Some of my go-to stores for deals include:

• Amazon – I price compare and use Amazon coupons and promo codes to save up to 25% on household goods and gifts.
• eBay – Great for finding discounted gift cards to popular stores at 5 to 15% off face value.
• Groupon – Up to 60% off local experiences, spa services, restaurants and more. New deals added daily.
• Living Social – Very similar to Groupon. I’ve saved hundreds using deals on here for family activities and date nights.

Checking sites that aggregate the best deals and promo codes across the web makes it easy to save on almost any purchase. I also sign up for newsletters from my favorite stores to get exclusive subscriber-only offers.

\n\n### How much can meal planning and prep save?

Planning meals, using grocery lists, and preparing more food at home can save $200 to $500 per month for a family of four. Some of the biggest savers include:

• Cooking larger meals and using leftovers for lunches can save $10 to $15 per meal.
• Avoiding food waste by using up ingredients on hand before they go bad saves $10 to $20 per week.
• Purchasing ingredients on sale and in bulk when possible and preserving portions for later use. This can save 30 to 50% off retail prices.
• Finding and using more recipes with inexpensive but filling ingredients like rice, beans, and in-season produce.

With some time and practice, the savings from effective meal planning

Conclusion

In conclusion, with determination and creativity, saving thousands as a parent is within your reach. Applying the lessons from this thrifty mom, you can craft homemade goods, cook affordable meals, score the best deals online and make your budget stretch further than ever before. While the road may not always be easy, the rewards of financial freedom and security for your family make the effort worthwhile. By following even some of these tips and tricks, you’ll be well on your way to saving money and creating cherished memories along the way. Stay focused on what really matters – the moments and experiences you share together. The savings will follow.