10 Clever Ways People Saved Money During Tough Times
When times were tough, people got creative and smart. Some ways that families made do with less money were growing their own food and repurposing old items. The fact that some of these tricks still work today reminds us of how resourceful humans can be.
- Tricia Quitales
- 3 min read
People had to get creative in order to make ends meet when money was tight. If you’re looking for ways to save money without sacrificing quality, this article provides 10 suggestions. The foundation of these time-honored practices for cutting costs was ingenuity, hard work, and even sacrifice. Even when it’s tough, they show that saving money is always achievable with the correct attitude.
1. Turning Clothes Into Rags and Quilts
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When clothes wore out, people didn’t throw them away—they turned them into cleaning rags or patchwork quilts. Every scrap of fabric had a second life. This habit saved money on both home items and gifts.
2. Saving Bacon Grease for Cooking
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Instead of tossing bacon fat, families saved it in jars and used it for cooking. It added flavor to vegetables, eggs, and other meals, reducing the need for extra oils or butter.
3. Growing a Backyard Garden
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Many families grew their own fruits and vegetables to avoid grocery bills. Even a small garden helped feed the household. Homegrown food also tasted fresher and gave people a sense of pride.
4. Reusing Containers and Jars
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People used glass jars, coffee tins, and other containers to store food, tools, or leftovers. This saved money on storage items and cut back on waste. It was both smart and eco-friendly, long before it was trendy.
5. Mending and Sewing at Home
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Instead of buying new clothes, folks learned how to sew, patch, and fix their own garments. A little needle and thread went a long way. Clothes were expected to last, not be tossed after a small rip.
6. Homemade Cleaning Products
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Many families made their own cleaners using vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice. These cheap ingredients handled most messes just as well as store-bought products. Plus, they were safer and non-toxic.
7. Hand-Me-Downs for Kids
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Older siblings’ clothes, shoes, and toys were passed down to younger ones, a common way to stretch a family budget. Kids learned to value what they had—even if it wasn’t brand new.
8. Batch Cooking and Stretching Meals
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People cooked in large batches and found ways to stretch meals across several days. A roast on Sunday could become stew or sandwiches during the week. It reduced waste and saved both time and money.
9. Using Public Libraries Instead of Buying Books
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Rather than buying books or entertainment, many turned to local libraries. They offered not just books but also music, movies, and programs—all for free. Libraries were a lifeline for learning and leisure.
10. Bartering with Neighbors
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When money was tight, people traded skills or goods instead of cash. One person might fix a neighbor’s roof in exchange for homegrown veggies or baked goods. These exchanges built community while keeping costs down.