5 Things I Stopped Buying That Save Me Thousands

🔎 Disclosure: Heads up, babe: some links here are affiliate links, which means you might throw a tiny commission my way if you buy (zero extra cost to you). Only things you’d actually use and love get shared on this site.

1. Bottled Water

Buying bottled water sounds harmless until you realize how fast it drains your wallet.

You’re basically paying hundreds a year for something you already have flowing from your tap.

Want to see where your money actually goes?

Here’s how this small switch makes a big difference:

  • Lower grocery bills. You’ll stop throwing $10–$15 a week at multipacks.
  • Less plastic waste. Your kitchen won’t look like a recycling bin exploded.
  • Cleaner taste. Filtered tap water often tastes better than bottled brands.
👉 Here's How You'll Do It: Use a reusable water filter pitcher, fill it daily, and keep a bottle ready in the fridge for quick grabs.

Make It Easy: Consider a Brita water filter pitcher so you can enjoy clean, cold water at home without the waste.


2. Disposable Cleaning Products

You know those disinfecting wipes and paper towels that vanish faster than your paycheck? They’re sneaky little money eaters.

You’re literally paying to throw things away.

Want a cleaner home and more cash left over?

Here’s what happens when you ditch the disposables:

  • Save on repeat purchases. Washable clothes can last for years.
  • Less clutter under the sink. No more endless boxes and rolls.
  • Eco-friendly bonus. You’ll use fewer chemicals and less packaging.
👉 Here's How You'll Do It: Swap single-use wipes for reusable microfiber cloths and wash them with your regular laundry once a week.

Make It Easy: Consider a set of reusable microfiber cleaning cloths that handle everything from counters to glass streak-free.


3. Gym Memberships

Be honest. When was the last time you actually used that gym membership you’re paying for?

If your gym card gets more rest than you do, it’s time to rethink.

You can stay fit without paying monthly fees that guilt-trip you every time you skip leg day.

You’ll notice:

  • Instant savings. Canceling saves an average of $40–$60 per month.
  • Freedom to move. Work out on your schedule, no commute required.
  • Zero pressure. No more dodging trainers trying to “upgrade” your plan.
👉 Here's How You'll Do It: Cancel your membership today and replace workouts with free YouTube videos or walks in your neighborhood.

Make It Easy: Get a set of adjustable dumbbells so you can do full-body workouts at home without bulky equipment.


4. Expensive Hair and Nail Appointments

You love a good pamper session. But those appointments can add up faster than your coffee runs.

By skipping a few salon visits, you could easily save $1,000+ a year.

You can still look good without emptying your bank account every month.

Here’s how that money adds up:

  • DIY success. A one-time investment in quality tools saves big long-term.
  • Less pressure. No need to “keep up” every two weeks.
  • Creative freedom. Try at-home colors or press-ons for fun variety.
👉 Here's How You'll Do It: Stretch appointments to every 6–8 weeks and learn simple at-home touch-ups to maintain your look.

Make It Easy: Consider a gel manicure kit that lets you do salon-quality nails from home in minutes.


5. Buy Things Just for Convenience

It’s easy to pay for convenience when life gets busy. pre-cut veggies, grocery delivery, takeout, you name it.

But those “quick fixes” sneak hundreds out of your wallet every month.

The truth? A little prep time saves way more than you think.

Check this out:

  • Smaller grocery bills. Whole ingredients cost way less than pre-made ones.
  • Better quality. Freshly prepped meals always taste better than packaged ones.
  • Bigger savings cushion. Those small choices add up fast.
👉 Here's How You'll Do It: Cook at home three nights a week using whole ingredients instead of ordering out or buying pre-cut foods.

Make It Easy: Consider a set of meal prep containers to make weekday cooking faster and stress-free.


📌 SAVE IT FOR LATER! 📌


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Lily Thompson

Hey, I'm Lily! I'm a mom who's really good at two things: stretching a dollar and talking about stretching a dollar. I created Money Vice after one too many grocery trips where I watched my total climb and thought, "There's gotta be a better way." Spoiler: there is. Think of me as your money-savvy friend who's always got a tip (and coffee in hand).