My Frugal Life - A Frugal Challenge - Up From Homelessness
Thanks for sharing your story. I live in Australia and did not know that Free Cycle existed. I have now joined my local branch. We only have one council collection for large items once a year, so I hope someone can use some of our cast-offs.
Gift Ideas for Men?
Thanks Jojo for your suggestions. It is nice to hear some feedback from Australia. The fathers day shopping time is a good idea. I thought vouchers for a surf shop for the teenagers maybe. Thanks again.
Storing Bread?
I always keep bread in the freezer and have never had a problem with this, it is always fresh. It only takes a few minutes to thaw out on a board while I am getting sandwich ingredients ready, or for toast you dont have to defrost it at all.
Mud Stains on Cotton Pants?
If you can get Sards Wonder Soap in America, I would try that. It is all I use for stains and it always works. I buy the cake of soap which is cheaper than the other forms of Sards, and it lasts a long time. Hope this helps.
Pictures from the Garden
Your garden looks great Kathy. I too like lots of flowers in my garden and your idea of growing from seeds has worked well. Congratulations.
Getting Grease Out of Clothing?
Dear Shelley I use Sards Wonder Soap (the bar of soap) on all my stains, especially grease. If the stains have been washed over a few times you may have to use it a few times, but it always works for me. The other thing you could do on bad stains is to applique...
My Frugal Life - Frugal Living on Five Acres
Dear Martha Thanks for sharing your story. I admire what you have done for you and your family. We tend to lose sight of the important things in life, wanting too many possessions and working long hours for things that are not really imporant. Well done.
Leftover Pizza Toppings In Omelets
Great ideal, sounds delicious. I must say we dont have much pizza left over at our place, but I will try it if we do.
Paint Color to Go With My Rosewood Wardrobe?
Dear Sharath, if you go to www.bhg.com there is a section called House & Home, under which you will find a category Colour a Room. You can change the colours of all items in the room and come up with a scheme to suit your room. It is free to use and really...
Wrapping Paper Starburst Ornament
Dear Harlean, this is a great idea and you are very clever to think of it. It wish I had the patience to make it. Thanks for sharing.
Stone or What Not Brooch
Dear Banshee, Thanks for the great idea. I am going to try it today, however I will use Craft Smart Tacky Craft Glue as this dries clear and dries quite quickly. You can get it at Spotlight.
Burgundy Drapes?
Dear Chic, my friend has a similar colour scheme to yours and has pale green walls, it looks good.
Easy Craft Ideas?
Dear Betty, I have just made some Christmas decorations from old CDs. I just wound some ribbon around the CD through the hole, leaving some of the silver side showing, and then placed a small santa ornament in the middle using double-sided tape, or you could...
Decoupage With Newspaper Clippings?
I do a lot of decoupage and some paper is fine as it is. However some magazine paper and newspaper needs sealing on the back before using. This solves the problem you are having.
Purse from an Underwire Bra
Dear Julie, You have made a lovely job of this. I do not have any spare bras at the moment, but I will try it when I have. Thanks.
Thank you for this website!
I agree wholeheartedly! I am in Australia and although some of the American products/items do not apply here, it is still my favourite website. If I miss my daily visit I am very unhappy. I have solved many problems with hints and tips from the website. Thanks...
Willow Trees Growing Near Sewer Drains?
Dear Eric, you are right to be worried. At my childhood home we had a beautiful weeping willow tree outside our back door which shaded the area well. We loved this tree and were devastated when we had to remove it because the roots had gotten into all the pipes...
Self-Tanning Cream Reviews?
I add a small amount of moisturiser to a bronzing cream, this works until you next shower. The best tanning system I have used is Tan Towel, it is like a baby wipe and you wipe it over the areas you want tanned. It never streaks and is not orange, and there...
Ornaments Made from Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces
Dear Corinne, this is a great idea, thanks for sharing. I am continually surprised at the imagination people have to make different craft items.
Tell Me About Australia?
Dear Ellen, Just like Maureen, I live in a seaside suburb south of Melbourne. She has covered all the things I would have said. I too hope you get to visit some day. We have a beautiful country.
Use A Lip Brush To Apply Lipstick
I always use a lip brush, as you can get the very last bit of lipstick out of the tube. I received a lip palette for Christmas and this is the only way I will buy lipstick in the future, it not only takes up less room in my makeup box, but you only have to...
Fleas in My Vegetable Garden?
Dear Wendy I live near the beach in Melbourne and also have very sandy soil. Adding mulch to the soil has helped cut down the amount of fleas my cat used to bring into the house. Anything at all you can add to the soil would help, leaves, compost, shredded...
What Pets Do You Have?
We have a beautiful grey long haired cat, Fluffy. She is now 15 years old and very spoilt. She is on constant medication for a thyroid problem, but still eats very well and loves a cuddle. She talks to us all the time.
Heart Wreath Door Decoration
This is a great idea, I think it might be an idea for Christmas, using maybe stars or Christmas trees. Well done.
Employ Thrifty Ingenuity
I totally agree. Since I have been reading this site, it has got me thinking. I am trying to save money on lots of things. I am crafty and have come up with a lot of ideas. My husband gives me strange looks when I suggest recycling some things, but it usually...
Church Supper Salad
I cant come to grips with the cheese, all the other ingredients sound like it is a dessert salad, but the cheese doesnt sound right.
Microwave Safe Mugs?
Dear Lynn, I only tested this myself a few days ago. Place the dish you want to use in the microwave and place a microwave safe dish beside it with a cup of water in it. Microwave for 1 minute on high and if the dish you want to use is cool, it is safe to use...
Clothing Advice for a Formal Business Event?
Dear Haley, I too am from Australia. I agree with the others, but the most important thing is that you are comfortable. People dont dress up as much these days. I would favor the black pants suit and a bright or glittery top.
Recycle Old Clothes As Quilting Squares
I made a single bed quilt cover with old my old clothing. I hand sewed all the squares and backed it with a single bed sheet. It took a while, but was something to do when I was watching TV or just sitting. The quilt brings back lots of memories of clothes...
Tyler (cat)
I am glad you adopted an unwanted cat also. We have had our cat Fluffy for 15 years now, she was placed over my friends fence by someone who didnt want her. She has been a wonderful companion to me and my husband. She couldnt meow either, but started after...
Tree Roots Invading My Vegetable Garden?
Dear Karen, Hi from another Aussie. I dont know if weed mat would be strong enough to stop tree roots, maybe you could ask at a nursery. Otherwise you might use old carpet or something stong like that. Goold luck.
Painting a Potato Bin
Dear Christine, You have done a beautiful job, your parents are lucky to have such a thoughtful daughter. I do some folk art painting myself, but I am not that talented. Well done.
Storing Pancake Mix?
Holly, if the mix is still okay at this stage, I would be inclined to make up the pancakes and freeze them, instead of the mix. Good luck.
Cereal Box Tote
This looks great Marie. I did this for Christmas gifts last year, but looking at yours gives me the idea of maybe using fabric for a more serviceable tote bag. Well done.
Saving Too Many School Papers?
If you have a scanner, you could keep the papers on file in your computer. Your daughter could look at them from time to time if she needed to.
Baking Tips For Professional Results
This is a good tip if you want your cookies to be all the same size, although I always like the odd shapes and sizes that say home baked.
Paint Color Advice - Painting Over Peach Wallpaper?
I would leave it as it is, as it looks great. However, I agree that a soft green would work. Good luck.
Rice Water For Plants?
Yes, I have done this many times and it has not harmed my indoor or outdoor plants.
Dilute 35% Hydrogen Peroxide For Home Use
How can hydrogen peroxide be environmentally friendly? Do you realise what it does to hair if used continuously? It makes it dry out and break off, I know from experience.
Yellowed Wool Jacket?
Dear Debbie, You should be able to dye your jacket. Check out www.ritdye.com and this will tell you if the fabric will dye well, and what colours to chose from. Good luck.
Think: What Would Great Grandma Do?
Fantastic idea, it never fails to amaze me what ideas we come up with. Well Done.
Kitchen Appliance Advice?
Dear Mindy, I bought a Magic Bullet when my food processor broke down. I have never regretted it. It is great for chopping, mixing and especially good for whipping cream, it only takes a few seconds.
Saving Money on Dryer Sheets
I too have never used dryer sheets, I always dry my washing outside in the fresh air. Only on rare occasions of bad weather do I use my dryer at all. Much more economical and healthy I say.
Save the Earth, One Paper Towel at a Time!
I have been using towelling hand-towels in the kitchen for some time now, mainly because they are so hardy and you can launder them over and over. I had never thought of using washcloths instead of paper towels, although I will do so in the future.
Homemade Wet Tissues?
My husband and I went through a winter when we seemed to have constant colds. I was spending a lot on tissues. I was about to throw out an old bedsheet and decided to cut it in squares and use these instead of tissues. The softness around your nose helps a...
Dyeing White Baseball Pants Grey?
Dear Debbi, If you go to the Rit website, you can get lots of hints on dyeing etc. Good luck.
What Cleaning Products Do You Use?
I only use Simple Green in my home. It is non-toxic and although it may seem expensive initially, you only need a small amount and dilute it with water. It cleans everything, and I wouldnt be without it.
Use Wash Water To Flush
We are in the middle of a very bad drought in Australia and can only water our gardens once a week. We have been collecting shower water in a bucket and placing it on the garden. We also keep a plastic bowl in the bathroom and kitchen sinks, and use this water...
Save Money on Clothing
The best way to save money on clothing is to make it yourself! Even if you are not the best dress-maker, you can teach yourself. Childrens clothes are easy. I taught myself by unpicking a favourite piece of clothing and using this as a pattern, then you know...
Save Hardware From Old Purses
Thanks for the tip. I am very fussy about handbag shapes and sizes, so this is a great idea when a favourite one becomes shabby.
Use A Broom To Scrub Out A Freezer
I recently bought a hard bristled broom to clean indoors. As I have trouble kneeling down, it is handy to clean the bath-tub, shower base and slate floors. It has made my life much easier.
Dealing With Annoying Birds?
This little bird has decided your yard is a nice place to be! I like nothing more than hearing birds in my yard.
Teflon Pans In Oven Drawer?
Hi Brendan, The teflon can be scratched quite easily, and when it comes off the pan wont be non-stick anymore. I place an old dish-towel or piece of cloth on the top of my teflon pans, then you can stack other pans on top without them scratching and removing...
Two Haircolorings For The Price Of One
This is a great idea. I have very short hair and usually have to throw half the bottle away. Thanks.
Don't Waste Your Yarn?
I was recently given 2 enormous bags of mixed yarn from a kind lady through Freecycle. I roughly sorted it into plys and colours. I am making striped sweaters for everyone in the family. It is fun to do and is amazing the combinations you can come up with.
Favors for Baptism and Adoption Party?
Congratulations Tina. I was thinking a small photo of your baby girl in a nice frame. These dont have to be expensive, and I know I like to have photos of my friends children.
Scrappy Knitted Throw Blanket
Dear Colleen, you have done a lovely job. I have been knitting sweaters for years like this, using up wool that has been left over from other projects. Every winter I have at last one new sweater.
Scrappy Knitted Throw Blanket
Dear Coreen, I dont use patterns for myself any more, as I know the size and just adapt for different wool thicknesses. For other people I use patterns, but I find them all on the internet, saves buying patterns. I find most colour combinations are good, I...
Use Small Amount of Toothpaste
Yes, you only need a tiny bit of toothpaste, if any. I worked for a dentist and he told me that it is more important to brush properly than use any toothpaste at all.
Scrubbing Bubbles® Automatic Shower Cleaner Reviews?
I havent used this product, but the only way I could get built up scum off our glass shower screen was to use spray-on oven cleaner. You only have to do it once, and from then on wipe it over after every shower with a towel. This works for me.
Ideas for Styling My Hair for a Wedding?
Dear Esther, There are lots of hairstyle websites available, you might find an idea in one of these. Good luck.
Keep Jar Candles For Power Outages
I dont feel comfortable with candles either. I bought some cheap battery-powered lanterns at a camping store. These are easier to use and safer.
How to Avoid Pilling on Clothes and Sheets?
I have found that the better quality sheets do not do this. I bought some inexpensive sheets and they pilled dreadfully, however more expensive ones did not. It has something to do with the thread count.
Advice for a Dealing with Fiance's Family?
I agree with Luvyabye, your daughter should be pleasant and say she will take their ideas into consideration,and then just do what she and her fiancee want. It is her wedding and she should have what she wants.
Automatic Dishwashers Save Water
I agree with you Carol. I stopped using rinse aid a while ago because I just couldnt afford to buy it. After a while I realised it had made no difference at all!
Tool Bar That Detects Impostor Websites?
Sorry, I have found what I was looking for. It is called Spoofstick. Thanks anyway.
Queen Anne's Lace
Hi from Australia Irene, we have Queen Annes lace growing in our garden. It is one of my favourites. I love the lacey look.
Saving Water from the Sink for Plants
Here in Australia we are in the midst of a very bad drought. I save water like this, but also from washing vegetables, this is good for your plants. We also recycle the water from our washing machine and have found that the detergent doesnt seem to cause the...
Put Your Shredded Documents in a Paper Bag
Lee, well done. You can put the shredded paper into your compost bin, or dig it into the garden, it rots down easily.
Bagging Your Own Groceries?
I dont know if you drive to the mart, but here is what I do. I place the groceries in the shopping cart and replace them as they come through the checkout. I then take the cart to my car where I have my cloth bags and pack them into my car from the cart. I...
How to Go on a No TV Diet
I couldnt live without TV. It doesnt mean that I dont do lots of other things, but I love my soapies.
Make a Microwave Shelf
Good idea Sandra. I have also used this idea in deep cupboard shelves where a lot of headspace is wasted.
Making a Fabric Shoe Holder?
Hi Julie, At www.burdastyle.com/patterns, there is a pattern for a hold-all, not particularly for shoes, but you could probably adapt it. It is on page 10. The patterns are free. Good luck.
Removing Pen From the Inside of Books?
Clare, if the other suggestions dont work, or if there is still a mark left, I would glue a picture over the spot. Perhaps a flower, depending on the type of book.
Shop at ALDI's for Grocery Savings
I am in Australia and wouldnt shop anywhere else but Aldi. I easily save $30 a week and the quality is excellent. For example bananas at a local fruit and veg wharehouse yesterday were $5.99 per kilo, but $1.99 in Aldi. We have never had anything we didnt like...
Recycled Lid Bugs and Bug Houses
This is great. It is good to see children getting into the recycling act, and having fun at the same time. Well done.
My Frugal Life: Living On Less
It is a myth that the dishwasher uses more water. I use my dishwasher every 2nd day, and it actually uses less water than 6 bowls of water to wash dishes for 3 meals a day.
Learning to Knit?
Jamish, there are lots of good website you can learn from, just find one that you can understand clearly. Good luck.
Computer Isn't Doing Updates?
I just googled in Microsoft updates and this takes you through the process of getting any updates. Good luck.
Growing Lavender in Texas?
Yes Isabel, lavender is very close to rosemary. I grow then alongside each other here in Australia. We are experiencing a very bad drought and they need less water than a lot of other plants. I bought it as a very small plant at the plant nursery and it has...
Knitted Purse Patterns?
Bridgette, there are lots of free patterns on the net. You could try Berroco, Lion patterns and there are lots more. Good luck.
Learning to Knit Vs. Crochet?
Why not learn to do both? I prefer knitting myself, but neither are hard to learn and you can then pick the one you prefer. It is all a matter of practice. Good luck.
Cut Your Boys Hair
Your son is gorgeous Gail. What a sensible idea to make a game out of the haircut. Well done.
Reviews of Moisturizers for Dry Skin?
Hi, I am also from Australia. I am 61 years old and have used Cetaphil moisturising cream for dry, sensitive skin for the last 2 years. Before this my skin was extremely dry and flakey. It is now soft and doesnt flake any more. Any chemist should sell it. Good...
Product Reivew: Viva Paper Towels
I agree with dh8. I buy lots of inexpensive face cloths to use in the kitchen and bathroom. They last for years and you are not wasting money on paper towels, wipes etc.
Kitten Isn't Meowing?
Our cat didnt meow for about 4 years, she too was an orphan. After that we couldnt shut her up, she was a real talker.
Clean Lint Trap To Improve Dryer Efficiency
It is just common sense to do this, if you let the lint build up, it can cause a fire.
Lock 'n Lock Storage Containers
I have also used Lock and Lock for years, and nothing else comes close to them. I never have to throw out vegetables now.
Reducing Blood Pressure?
My husband has been eating porridge (oats) for breakfast a few times a week, and on the days that he does this his bp is down. Worth trying.
What Do You Think of Facebook?
I like it. As my friends are all over the country, it is a good way to keep in touch and see their photos. You do not have to play the games, and do not accept friendship from anyone you dont know.
Wildlife: Mynah Bird in Maui
Do you realise these birds are called rats of the sky? They invade other birds nests and throw the eggs out and use the nests for themselves.
Adding Color to a White and Beige Kitchen?
Hi Angela My kitchen is also white, and I have added splashes of colour with pieces of china, plant pots and bits and pieces. I have chosen yellow and blue and you can pick up pieces very cheap. Saves you painting.
Pringle Lid Coasters
These are also handy for placing under sauce bottles in the pantry, in case of any drips.
Link: 5 Ingredient Fix
We have a tv programme in Australia, called 4 ingredients, it is amazing what you can make with few ingredients. Their website is http://www.4ingredients.com.au.
Water Conservation for Tough Economic Times
All your points are worthwile, however we have been doing every one of these here in Australia for years now. Our water storage is very low and we have not been able to water our lawns for a long time. Every drop is saved. We keep bowls in the kitchen and bathroom...
