| By :
Molly Wider
We've become so consumer-oriented that we over-consume on a lot of things, especially items we use at home. But just cutting back on all kinds of common home items can cut costs big time. And that's money you can put to better use somewhere else. Laundry detergent is one place where people just pour it in. But use those nifty little measuring cups that come with the container-and only add one half the recommended amount. Unless you're a real stinker, most people's clothes just aren't that dirty, and a near-clear fresh water wash will clean most things. Switch to powdered detergent. Liquids are groovy, but they cost a lot more, and don't get your clothes any cleaner. While you're at it, wash in cold water only, and only dry your clothes enough to get the wrinkles out, then hang them to dry. All these small steps will dramatically decrease your laundry costs. Use less toothpaste. You really don't need to smother your toothbrush in toothpaste to clean your teeth. In fact, covering about one-quarter of your toothbrush in paste is probably plenty to keep your smile white and pearly. So just plop a little dot-and for extra clean, sprinkle a little baking soda into the mix. Your teeth will thank you. Household cleansers. A little goes a long way, so use them sparingly. Sometimes they contain toxic chemicals anyway, so limit your exposure by using them in dilute amounts. One way to save big is to use equal parts vinegar and water to clean your windows. Instead of a cloth, use old newspapers for windows that really shine. Cut those dryer sheets in half-or thirds, or quarters. You'll get the same results as if you used a whole one. Cut the whole box up as soon as you buy them so they're ready to go when you are. Juice is really expensive, but it's a wonderful summer drink, and kids love it. Get with the trend towards "flavored water" and dilute your juice. Start by adding one extra tin then add more water over time. Pour it over crushed ice, and serve with fresh orange, lemon or lime, and it will taste and feel like a gourmet drink. Worried that the kids might complain? Layer the orange, lemon and lime on a toothpick, top it with a maraschino cherry, and plop it on top of their drink-they'll go nuts. Shampoos and conditioners always tell you to wash and rinse your hair twice. Don't do it. Your hair needs only the smallest amounts to keep it clean and looking good. Alternately, when you first buy your shampoo and conditioner, dilute them by 50%. Your hair cleansers go four times further. Do the same thing to your salad dressing. These days, salad dressings are as thick as peanut butter. Dilute them up to 50%. You'll cut calories and they'll still taste great. Remember, it's the little saves that can add up to big bucks in your bank account. And when you get sick and tired of watching your pennies, you'll have saved enough to afford an occasional splurge.
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