15 frugal moves women swear by to spend less
Ready to make your money work smarter and feel empowered doing it? Discover how women everywhere are waving goodbye to costly habits and finding freedom in clever swaps. From self-care to home hacks, these 15 money-saving moves can help you live well, spend less, and embrace sustainable choices every day. Let’s see how frugal women are making it happen!
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1. Disposable Menstrual Products
Frugal women have moved to menstrual cups, period underwear, and reusable pads, saving money and reducing waste long-term.
2. Salon Services
DIY haircare, home hair dye, and basic nails mean skipping costly salons but still looking great. YouTube has endless tutorials for getting the job done yourself.
We are loving the ease of these press on nails for a French tip for under $5!
3. Paper Towels
Reuse cloth towels or rags instead of buying paper towels. It’s eco-friendly and easy to toss them in the wash. We are particularly fond of our Swedish Dish Towels. Pretty, soak up water and spills, easy to clean and they dry quickly too!
4. Bottled Water
Reusable water bottles are the new must-have. They cut out recurring costs and help eliminate plastic waste. Hydro flasks are a favorite for a good reason. Fits into a cup holder, is leak-proof, and keeps your water cold for 24 hours!
5. Shopping Apps
Women save hundreds by deleting tempting shopping apps and unsubscribing from marketing emails; out of sight, out of cart.
6. Buying Books
Libraries, digital loans, and thrift stores make finding amazing reads possible without the premium price tag. If you have a library card and you love to read digital books, or a magazine you can’t afford or like us, listen to audio books while driving or gardening – then be sure to download Libby! You can access thousands of titles for FREE!!!
7. Pre-Cut Produce & Convenience Food
Cutting, prepping, and cooking at home costs less, and is usually healthier. Say goodbye to pricey, pre-cut veggies or salads. Wash and prep them when you get home and store them in containers for ease of use all week long!
8. Fast Fashion
Thrift stores, clothing swaps, and hand-me-downs have become staples. Frugal women love unique, sustainable fashion that’s gentle on the wallet.
9. Unused Subscriptions
Keep only what you adore; ditch unused gym memberships, streaming services, or magazine subs. Regular audits can save hundreds a year.
10. Impulse Buys
Budgeting isn’t optional. Frugal women track spending, create ‘to buy’ lists, and plan purchases strategically. No more random splurges.
11. Full-Priced Pantry Staples
Smart shoppers wait for sales and buy in bulk, building their pantry with discounted essentials only.
12. Takeout Coffee
Homemade cold brew, drip coffee, and tea save serious money over time. Invest in a cute travel mug for your new habit.
13. Single-Use Cleaning Supplies
DIY cleaners like vinegar, baking soda, or simple homemade solutions give the same results for pennies.
14. Trends & Home Decor
Secondhand furniture, DIY crafts, and intentional home choices create beautiful spaces on a budget. Plus, it’s easier to switch up when the mood strikes.
15. Restaurant Sodas
Skip pricey drinks at restaurants for tap water, homemade sparkling, or BYO beverage. Every little sacrifice adds up.
The Takeaway
Frugality isn’t about deprivation, it’s about making purposeful, joyful decisions that create real impact. By letting go of these splurges, women everywhere are proving that smart choices are stylish, powerful, and liberating. Try a few swaps yourself and see how small changes can lead to big wins for your wallet, your well-being, and the world. Happy saving!
Looking for more Easy Ways to Save Money Over the Year (That Won’t Make You Miserable)
Plus 10 Tiny Money Moves That Can Save You $1,000 This Year
