Trying to Cut Costs? Learn Ways to Lower Your Expenses!

During difficult times you shouldn't agonize about money rather you need to economize! If you're like most people, you're probably looking for ways to trim your expenses and reduce overall spending. Every week I'll be sharing the ideas I have for saving money and I'd like to hear what strategies you use to reduce spending habits.

1. Need string to tie up the plants in this year's garden? Cut unwearable pantyhose into strips and voila! you have string.
2. Don't toss that old pair of oven mitts just yet; recycle them into gardening gloves to use when working with thorns and other prickly plants.
3. Make sure that you're receiving interest on your security deposit and/or last month's rent deposit if you rent a home. It's not a lot of money but you're entitled to it, so when you get it, put it in a tax-free savings account.
4. Plant trees to save energy which in turn will save you money. If you plant deciduous trees on the south and west sides of your home, they will provide necessary shade in the summer and in the winter allow the sun to shine through.
5. Use a toaster oven or convection oven rather than a traditional oven to save energy and money on your electricity bill over the long term.
6. Install water saver shower heads. Some municipalities even offer free kits on occasion.
7. Wrap your hot water heater; you will see that your heating bills will be lower.
8. Don't let that tap drip. Fix dripping faucets immediately, especially if it's dripping hot water.
9. Install a programmable thermostat to automatically adjust temperature settings when you're away from the house or sleeping. This is easy to do yourself and the savings can be dramatic
10. Don't use directory assistance with your local telephone company; use Google 411. Call 1-800-GOOG-411.

Please leave me a comment with your suggestions to keeping more dollars in your pocket. Be sure to return soon for more cost cutting ideas!