The Dollar Stretcher Tips 08.03.07

We broke the glass plate from the bottom of our microwave. My husband called the manufacturer and learned that it would cost us $40 plus shipping to replace it. We didn’t have the extra money to put out at the time, so we just let it go. A short time later, my husband was browsing in a thrift store and found a used microwave identical to ours for $12. Needless to say, he bought it and we disposed of the microwave and kept the plate!
TdB

Having limited space for storing craft supplies, I started to look at how to organize my sewing and other craft things. Nothing appealed to me, so I was looking at my husband’s latest tool catalog. I found a toolbox base with a power strip (Sears called them project centers. Don’t buy the cheapest. Instead, buy the middle priced one for better quality.) and five drawers. It works great! Also, I can roll it into my kitchen and use it as a kitchen cart. I carved the Thanksgiving turkey on a platter on the cart and then I rolled it to the dining room. This gave me more room on the table for other yummies.
Larie C.

Ever come across a great deal on snacks, such as potato chips, pretzels, crackers, cereal bars, etc., but their expiration date is looming or has already passed? Buy them anyway and freeze them in their original packaging. With the brands we’ve bought, we’ve seen no difference in quality, taste or texture. Of course, allow ample time for thawing.
Cindy in Muncy, PA

Looking for a cheap, low-maintenance pet? Consider “feeder goldfish,” which can cost less than 10 cents. Their food is around a $1 and lasts many months. One can use any type of glass bowl or antique canning jar to keep them in. They do live for years and are fun to keep near the kitchen sink. Some can have a personality and are very happy to see you in the morning. I was told they are cold water fish and do not like heated water, which is a big plus as there is no expensive heater or tank to keep up. I usually keep two fish together for company.
Ann from CT

Recently, out of frustration with road construction and high gas prices, I decided to ditch my car commute and bike to work. I discovered that the 12.5-mile drive that took me 30 minutes by car on a good day (60 minutes or more in construction or bad weather) took about 60 minutes by bike.

Since I spend the same amount of time in the gym in the morning anyway, I followed the same routine (wake up time and packing a bag with business clothes for the day). It was a surprisingly small adjustment to my routine and I wondered why I hadn’t done this sooner. I’m lucky that my workplace has a tiny locker room and shower.

I have found that I am saving not only gas costs ($25/month) but also my gym membership costs ($60/month), so I’m saving at least $85/month and getting daily exercise. Since I live in Minneapolis, I won’t be able to bike year round. Still, it has an impact on my budget and reduces my impact on pollution!
Danae R.

I just got back from vacation and learned this tip from a fellow traveler. Bring your own water bottle. Refill the water bottle at a water fountain near the restrooms and save $3 or more.
Janet H.

When you upgrade your cell phone, hold onto your old phone and don’t pay for phone insurance. If your new phone dies and you can’t get a free new phone from your service provider, simply have them reactivate your old phone. Some providers will do it for free. Alternatively, if your provider runs on a GSM network, you may be able to swap the SIM cards and avoid having to contact your provider.
Cathy in Los Angeles

Organize a neighborhood “swapshop.” Have each person donate
ten items that they would normally give to charity or no longer use and then each person can swap their goods for new ones. I have been able to save on clothes and toys for the last two years. We love it!
Letanie G.

To keep broom, mop handles, etc. from sliding down while leaning against a wall, cut the fingers from rubber gloves and put on top of handles. There will be no more slipping and sliding.
Betty S.

I have a money saving tip for those looking to spruce up their homes for a lower price. Many people are remodeling and some of the homes being remodeled aren’t really out of date. Call a few local contractors and tell them what you are interested in finding, such as a bathroom vanity and sink, kitchen cabinets, etc. Find out if you can purchase what you need from a remodel they are doing. If you can wait for what you want and follow- up with the contractors frequently, you should be able to find what you want at a low price (or even free!) and reduce landfill waste at the same time!
Susie R. in Springfield, IL