By Dorothy Goodman
We live in a consumer’s world where commercials, sales, coupons, emails and magazines are constantly coming at us with reminders to buy. They don’t have to beg very hard either. I can’t tell you the number of times I went to the grocery store for tortillas and bananas only and walked out of there with a cart full of sale items that I just couldn’t resist. We think we are saving money because we are buying things on sale, when really there are so many items that we could just not spend any money on at all. Here is a list of just a couple items that I have stopped buying and have found reusable alternatives or repurposed things to take its place: |
|
Batteries not only cost me a lot to replace, but they pose an environmental risk when disposed of, so they should be collected or recycled separately from our regular trash. A couple years ago I replaced all of my AA batteries with rechargeable batteries and purchased a charger. With a little research, I discovered that eneloop rechargeable batteries are the way to go because they hold their charge and don’t become weaker after consecutive charges.
|
Wrapping paper and gift bags have their own drawer in my house. When I have received gifts in the past, I neatly fold the wrapping paper or gift bag and tissue paper to save for the next gift I give. Another solution is to use newspaper or old magazine pages as wrapping paper.
Carbonated water is an item that I could daily drink a case of if I wasn’t a frugal and environmentally aware person. The Sodastream has allowed me to keep my habit, save money and keep waste out of the landfills. I even get a discount on the CO2 cartridges if I recycle them.
What are some things that you have been able to quit buying by switching to a reusable or repurposed alternative? Please share below! |
|
Dorothy Goodman is a Colorado-based free-lance writer and blogger specializing in small businesses, health & wellness, farming and more. With years of experience with writing both professionally and personally, she is motivated to create accurate, informative and engaging pieces.
|