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Let’s be real—saving money isn’t always fun, but it doesn’t have to be boring either. I’ve found some pretty unconventional and unusual ways to save money and cut costs, and honestly, they work. If you’re trying to save up for something big (like I am with my dream home!), these little hacks can help keep more money in your pocket.
Oh, and before I dive in—if you love tracking your savings and need a simple way to do it, grab my free printable savings log. It’ll help you stay on top of your progress without the headache.
1. Freeze Your Debit Card (Literally)
Yup, I actually do this. If I know I’m heading to the mall or a shopping district where I might get tempted, I freeze my debit card in a container of water. By the time it thaws, the shopping urge has usually passed. Drastic? Maybe. But does it work? 100%.
2. Cut Sponges in Half
Why use a full-size sponge when you can cut it in half and get double the use? It’s such a small thing, but little savings like this add up over time.
3. Freeze Cooked Foods to Avoid UberEats & DoorDash
Most of the time, when I cook, I make extra and freeze it. That way, when I’m feeling lazy or don’t want to cook, I just reheat something instead of ordering food. UberEats and DoorDash can drain your wallet fast, so having ready-made meals is a lifesaver.
4. Only Carry Large Bills
Here’s an unusual way to save money—when you carry $50 or $100 bills, you’re way less likely to break them for small, unnecessary purchases. Psychologically, it just feels harder to spend a $100 bill than swiping your card for $5 here and there.
5. Have a ‘No-Buy’ Color
Pick a color and commit to never buying anything in that shade. Whether it’s clothes, home decor, or accessories, this trick helps eliminate impulse buys. Plus, if you’re anything like me, you probably already have a bunch of stuff in the same colors anyway.
6. Borrow Clothes Instead of Buying
When I went to the Dominican Republic for the first time in 23 years to check out homes to buy, I literally had NOTHING to wear. Instead of running to the store, I hit up my sisters. They lent me a whole bag of clothes and shoes, and guess what? I didn’t spend a dime on new outfits. If you have siblings or close friends, don’t be afraid to swap clothes instead of shopping for every little occasion.
7. Pay Yourself for Bad Habits
Turn your bad habits into savings opportunities. Every time you hit snooze, scroll TikTok for too long, or curse, put a dollar in a jar. You’d be surprised how fast it adds up.
8. Turn Off the Oven Early
If you’re baking something, turn the oven off 5–10 minutes before the timer ends. The residual heat will finish cooking your food while saving you a little on electricity. Small savings, but every bit helps!
9. Leave Items in Your Cart for 24 Hours
Before you check out online, leave your cart alone for at least 24 hours. Most of the time, you’ll realize you don’t actually need that item. Plus, some stores send discount codes to get you to complete your purchase.
10. Use Hotel Samples & Freebies
If you ever stay at a hotel, don’t let those little soaps, shampoos, and coffee packets go to waste. Grab them (ethically, of course) and use them at home or for travel. It saves money on toiletries, and you’ll always have a little stash of essentials.
The Bottom Line
Finding unusual ways to save money doesn’t have to be difficult. Sometimes, the weirdest hacks are the most effective. Whether you’re freezing your debit card, cutting sponges in half, or raiding your sibling’s closet, small changes can make a big difference in your finances.
If you’re serious about saving, don’t forget to download my free printable savings log. It’ll help you track your progress and stay motivated.
What’s the most unusual way you’ve saved money? Let me know in the comments!
