Eco Friendly Ways to Save Money

I would like to think of myself as an eco trailblazer. As a child, I despised those that littered and threw out their garbage in parking lots and sidewalks. I secretly wanted to pick up the still lit cigarettes, I had seen drivers carelessly throw out of their car windows, and throw them back in. In reality, I didn't do nearly enough to protect the environment.

You don't need a lot of money to do things to help the environment. In fact, you can save money by doing so. Here are eight ways to reduce your carbon footprint and increase your savings:

1. UNPLUG UNNECESSARY ELECTRONICS. Did you know that even if you are not using a lamp, computer, or fan it is still using electricity while plugged in to the outlet? Unplug items not in use and you will be surprised at the difference it will make on your monthly electric bills. It is also a good fire prevention measure.
2. GIVE UP DRINKING BOTTLED WATER. So far, there is no conclusive testing showing bottled water is any better for you than tap water. Giving it up will allow you to save landfill space and money. Even better, your teeth will benefit since fluoride is good for them.
3. PLAN YOUR ERRANDS SO YOU USE LESS GAS. The obvious benefits are that you will reduce pollution and save money.
4. DON’T LITTER. This may not have occurred to you, but you will spend less in taxes if the government doesn’t have to pick up after you; plus, your neighborhood will be cleaner.
5. GO TO AN ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY DRY CLEANER. You will avoid the nasty chemicals that are typically used to clean clothing; thereby reducing your chances, and the environment’s, of being exposed to toxic chemicals.
6. BUY LOCALLY GROWN FOOD. This is a no-brainer. Less gas is used to transport it to you, and it’s fresher and cheaper.
7. DON’T FLUSH ANYTHING, OTHER THAN YOUR WASTE, DOWN THE TOILET. Why? Because the water gets reconditioned and used again. Remember the recent news blurbs on prescription drugs found in water supplies? Yuck!
8. BUY A WATER SAVING SHOWER HEAD. You will save a bundle on your water bill and spare gallons of the much needed resource.

These are just a few simple, but effective, ways you can make a difference.

Buying Brand Name Sports Apparel

I don't know about you, but I actually enjoy working out. I also like to wear name brand sports apparel. I don't like having to pay full price for it though. That's where my frugal sensibility comes in. Thrift runs in my family and because I've been practicing it for so long, it comes naturally to me. I want to pass on my knowledge to you, the consumer, because not everyone possesses this skill. I do believe it is a skill and just because I practically inherited mine, doesn't mean you can't develop it.



So, for my first post, I want to tell you where to look for name brand sports apparel. My husband and I have this running joke. It started when I noticed he wore Adidas clothing to work out in. It wasn't just an Adidas shirt, it was a whole outfit. The only thing he didn't have on, is the only thing they don't make - underwear! Since high school cross country I had an affinity towards Nike. The shoes fit my feet well, and they were comfortable - the two most important factors to me at the time. When we would go to the gym I would make fun of his designer outfit, but he didn't care. So, being my sarcastic self, I began to purchase more Nike apparel. I now own socks, exercise bras, shirts, tanks, shorts, pants, and a gym bag all by one designer. I've been doing this for years now, occasionally teasing my husband by telling him he should come to the dark side - meaning he should change brand loyalty. He hasn't yet.



I did get him to realize one thing. You don't have to pay full price for a designer look. If you want to be decked out in name brand, head to off-price retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Marshall's, and Nordstrom Rack. Don't forget Kohl's on their sale days, or during their savings certificates promotions. Department stores, such as Macy's, have clearance racks waiting for you. Yes, it takes a little extra time digging; but as an example, I typically save $15-25 off the shirts normal retail prices. Outlet malls are another good place to visit. The two brands I mentioned above have stand alone outlet stores in many states. Lastly, don't forget you can save on the shoes too. DSW is a great place to look for discount name brands. Here's a helpful hint: always start at the clearance racks first. You may find what you need there and will have no need to search through the rest of the store. This will limit your temptation to look at other shoes that may be out of your price range.



Now that your son or daughter is heading back to school, it's the perfect time to try out these fast and easy hints. Happy Savings!