Find New Uses for Old Items
I admit. When I think about saving money, I think about how I can actually spend less each month. It makes logical sense. But when I think about what we are using and consuming, I realize there are several items that I discard that can actually be used in new or different ways.
In the Everyday Savings Tips series, many of you shared several ways you reuse and recycle old or unwanted items. Here are a few more ways to consider for new uses with old items.
Leftover Cookies
Leftover cookies make excellent pie crusts for cream pies. When you have a few cookies leftover, put them in a plastic bag and crush them with a rolling pin. Put them in the freezer for future use.
Get really creative and mix different types of cookies together for an interesting piecrust. Replace the graham crackers with cookies in homemade piecrust recipes.
Soap “Chips”
Soap “chips” can be used until completely vanished! One way to reuse these small pieces is to take a large washcloth, sew the edges all the way around leaving just enough room to insert the soap chips. Sew up the small opening and you have and instant loofah.
Carpet or Rug Remnants
Need to keep your feet warmer this winter? Use old carpet or rug remnants inside your shoes for extra warmth and padding. Trace your feet, not the shoe, onto the remnant and cut out. Place inside your boots to keep your feet toasty warm.
While this isn't necessary something I would do for my shoes, this is great to use in boots or shoes while sledding or spending extended periods outdoors. This is also a money saver if your boots are great on the outside, but torn or worn on the inside.
Mesh Bags
Save plastic mesh bags that come from oranges and potatoes. They can be used when washing items like stuffed animals in the washing machine or you can reuse them to store other fruits and vegetables that you buy in bulk.
Pickle Juice
You can reuse pickle juice. Add slices of cucumbers, cauliflower, peppers and onions to the juice and let it sit for a few days in the fridge before eating. You can use the same jar the pickles came in.
Bread Crumbs
Bread crumbs and pieces of all types should be cubed or ground in the food processor as soon as possible before the expiration date. Use the cubes for homemade stuffing or croutons and the ground pieces for meatloaf and meatballs. Store them in plastic bags and freeze.
Finding new uses for old items can save you money over time. A penny saved is a penny earned when it comes to budgeting your money every month.
