Want to give your home a fresh new look without spending a fortune? Before you head to the store, try shopping your own home!
I find that once February rolls around, or honestly, once I've had enough of the dreary winter weather, I start craving a little change. I want things to feel brighter, fresher, and a bit more cheerful.
The good news is that you probably already have plenty of things around your home that can help you create that fresh feeling. Sometimes you don't need new stuff, you just need to look at the stuff you already own a little differently.
Here are some easy ways to decorate with things you already have and give your space a refresh without spending much (or anything at all).
Table of Contents
1. Get Creative with Spray Paint
Never underestimate what a can of spray paint can do!
An old vase, picture frame, lamp base, planter, basket, or small decorative item can look completely different with a fresh coat of paint.
Choose a colour that works with your current decor, or go with a classic neutral like white, black, or a soft beige. You may be surprised by how different an old item can look after a simple makeover.
Just make sure the item and paint are compatible and use spray paint safely according to the product directions.
2. Bring the Outdoors In
Nature is one of the best, and cheapest, ways to decorate your home.
Look around your yard for interesting branches that can be arranged in a large vase. Add fresh greenery to small vases or jars, or use seasonal flowers to add a little colour to a room.
You can also use things like pinecones, interesting stones, or other natural objects as decorative accents.
A simple branch in a pretty vase can make much more of a statement than you might expect!
3. Rearrange Your Furniture
Before buying anything new, try moving your furniture around.
Move a chair from one room into another. Try your side table beside the sofa instead of the bed. Switch the direction of your furniture or create a new conversation area.
You might find that your existing furniture works perfectly in a different arrangement. And the best part? It costs absolutely nothing!
4. Shop Your House
This is one of my favourite ways to decorate on a budget.
Walk through your home and look at your belongings with fresh eyes. Could the vase in your bedroom work in the living room? Could the basket in the bathroom hold blankets? Could a piece of artwork from one room look better somewhere else?
Move decorative items between rooms and see what happens.
Sometimes something feels "old" simply because we've been looking at it in the same spot for years.
5. Get Crafty with Fabric
Have fabric scraps, old curtains, scarves, tablecloths, or clothing that you're no longer using? You might be able to turn them into simple decorative pieces.
Use fabric to make a table runner, pillow cover, placemats, bunting, or even a small piece of wall art.
You don't need to be an expert sewer, either. There are plenty of simple projects that require very little fabric or sewing. Fabric glue might even work!
6. Give Your Picture Frames a New Job
Have a collection of picture frames sitting around that aren't being used? Put them to work!
Frame family photos, children's artwork, scrapbook paper, pretty fabric scraps, postcards, calendars, or even pages from an old book.
You can also group several frames together to create an inexpensive gallery wall.
Don't worry if the frames don't match perfectly. A collection of different frames can actually make a display feel more interesting.
7. Use Old Things in New Ways
One of the easiest ways to decorate without spending money is to stop thinking about things only for their original purpose.
An old mason jar can become a vase, bathroom storage container, or pencil holder. A wooden crate can hold magazines, blankets, or toys. A pretty bowl can become a catch-all for keys and other little items. An old tray can organize perfumes, candles, or coffee supplies.
Look at what you already own and ask yourself: "What else could I use this for?"
8. Decorate with Books
Books can be beautiful decor all on their own.
Stack a few books on a coffee table or side table and place a vase, candle, or small decorative object on top. You can also use books to add height to displays or create little groupings on shelves.
If you have old books that are no longer useful to you, there are plenty of creative craft projects you can make with them, too.
9. Display Your Kids' Artwork
Kids create an endless supply of free artwork!
Instead of putting everything on the fridge, choose a few favourite pieces and display them around your home. Frame artwork, create a rotating gallery wall, hang drawings from clips, or turn colourful pieces into homemade banners. You could even laminate particularly sturdy artwork and use it as placemats.
It's inexpensive decor, and much more meaningful than something you picked up at a store.
10. Rearrange Your Shelves
Sometimes your shelves don't need new decor. They just need a new arrangement.
Take everything off a bookshelf, hutch, or display shelf and start from scratch. Group similar items together, mix different heights, add books for dimension, and leave some empty space.
You'll be amazed at how different the same collection of objects can look when rearranged.
11. Make a New Gallery Wall
Take a look through the artwork, prints, calendars, postcards, children's artwork, and photographs you already have.
Choose a collection that works together and create a new gallery wall. You don't necessarily need matching frames. In fact, mixing frames can give the display more personality.
And if you already have a gallery wall, try rearranging the pieces into a completely different configuration.
12. Switch Out Your Textiles
You don't need to buy an entirely new set of decor to make a room feel different.
Move throw blankets and pillows between rooms. Bring out a tablecloth you haven't used in a while. Fold a colourful blanket over the arm of a chair.
Even small changes to textiles can make a room feel refreshed.
13. Create a Decorative Tray
Do you have an unused serving tray hiding in a cupboard? Pull it out and turn it into a little decorative display.
Add a candle, vase, small plant, favourite book, or another decorative item you already own.
Trays are especially useful because they make a collection of random objects look intentional and organized.
14. Make a Simple Centrepiece
You don't need an expensive floral arrangement to create a pretty table centrepiece.
Try filling a bowl with pinecones, fruit, ornaments, or other seasonal items you already have. A vase filled with branches can also make a beautiful centrepiece. Even a few candles grouped together on a tray can create a simple focal point.
15. Move Your Decor Around Seasonally
One of my favourite ways to make my home feel different without buying anything is to rotate what I already own.
Pack away some of your decor for a few months and bring out things you've forgotten about.
When you see those pieces again, they can feel almost new!
You don't need a huge collection of seasonal decor, either. Simply rotating pillows, blankets, artwork, vases, and small decorative pieces can make a big difference.
Before You Buy Anything, Shop Your Home
The next time you feel like your home needs a refresh, resist the urge to immediately start shopping.
Instead, take a walk through your house.
Open the cupboards. Look in storage bins. Check the basement. Look at your bookshelves and closets. You might already have everything you need to create the change you're craving.
Decorating doesn't always mean buying something new. Sometimes the best way to refresh your home is simply to use what you already have in a new way.
And if you're trying to save money, that's a pretty great decorating strategy!
How do you decorate your home on a budget? Do you have a favourite way to refresh a room without buying anything new?
If you've ever planted lemon balm, you already know that it doesn't exactly need much encouragement to grow. This fragrant perennial herb can quickly become thick, bushy, and very abundant.
The good news? There are plenty of ways to put all those fresh leaves to use.
Lemon balm has a lovely lemony scent and a mild citrus flavor that works really well in drinks, desserts, fruit, homemade infusions, and even your summer bath. It's also an easy herb to grow, making it a great addition to a backyard herb garden.
If you're wondering what to do with lemon balm, here are 10 simple and clever uses for lemon balm:
1. Add It to Your Outdoor Space
Lemon balm is often grown for its lemony fragrance, and having it near your patio or outdoor seating area can be a lovely way to enjoy the scent while you're outside. It may also be useful for warding off mosquitos!
I like growing lemon balm in a planter near our patio table where I can easily snip a few leaves whenever I want to use them.
Tip: Lemon balm can spread quickly in the garden, so growing it in a container can make it much easier to keep under control.
2. Make Lemon Balm Simple Syrup
One of my favorite summer uses for lemon balm is making a batch of homemade simple syrup.
You'll need:
1 cup packed fresh lemon balm leaves
1 cup water
1 cup sugar
How to make it:
Combine the lemon balm, water, and sugar in a small saucepan.
Bring the mixture to a boil and cook for about 1 minute, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
Remove from the heat and cover.
Let it steep for about 30 minutes.
Strain out the lemon balm leaves.
Store the syrup in the refrigerator.
Use your lemon balm simple syrup to sweeten lemonade, iced tea, sparkling water, or homemade summer drinks. You could even use it to add a little extra flavor to cocktails or mocktails.
3. Make Lemon Balm Tea
Fresh or dried lemon balm leaves can be used to make a simple herbal tea.
Just add a handful of fresh leaves or a small amount of dried lemon balm to a mug or teapot, cover with hot water, and let it steep for several minutes. Strain and enjoy warm.
Lemon balm has a naturally mild, lemony flavor, so you can enjoy it on its own or combine it with other herbs such as mint.
4. Make Lemon Balm Infused Honey
Lemon balm and honey make a delicious combination.
To make infused honey, loosely fill a clean jar about halfway with fresh lemon balm leaves. Pour honey over the leaves until they're completely covered.
Let the mixture infuse for several weeks, then strain out the leaves.
Use the finished honey to sweeten tea, drizzle over yogurt, or add to desserts.
Important: Never give honey to babies under one year old.
5. Add It to Desserts and Fruit Salads
Lemon balm's subtle citrus flavor makes it a fun addition to summer desserts.
Finely chop a few fresh leaves and add them to:
Fruit salads
Yogurt
Parfaits
Fruit crisps
Pies
Homemade popsicles
You don't need much. A few chopped leaves can add a surprisingly nice lemony flavor.
6. Add It to Iced Tea
Summer and iced tea go together perfectly, and lemon balm is an easy way to switch things up.
Add a handful of fresh lemon balm leaves to your favorite iced tea while it steeps. You can also combine it with fresh mint for an extra refreshing flavor.
If plain water gets a little boring, try adding fresh lemon balm.
Add a few washed lemon balm leaves to a pitcher of water along with your favorite fruit. Lemon, lime, strawberries, cucumber, peaches, and berries are all great options.
Let everything chill in the refrigerator for a few hours so the flavors have time to mingle.
It's a simple way to make everyday water feel a little more special.
8. Use It in a Homemade Bath
Want to make your next bath feel a little more relaxing and spa-like?
Add fresh lemon balm leaves to the water for a lovely herbal scent.
You can sprinkle the leaves directly into the tub, or place them in a small cloth bag or reusable tea infuser and hang it near the faucet so the warm water runs through the leaves as the tub fills.
9. Freeze Lemon Balm for Later
If your lemon balm plant is producing more leaves than you can use, don't let them go to waste!
Wash and dry the leaves, then chop them and freeze them in small portions. You can freeze them in ice cube trays with a little water and then transfer the frozen cubes to a freezer bag.
Drop a cube into iced tea, lemonade, sparkling water, or other summer drinks whenever you need a little lemony flavor.
Freezing is a great way to preserve some of that summer herb garden abundance.
10. Make a Lemon Balm Sugar
Here's another easy way to preserve the flavor of fresh lemon balm.
Place fresh lemon balm leaves and granulated sugar in a food processor and pulse until the leaves are finely chopped and incorporated into the sugar.
Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet and allow it to dry completely. Once dry, store it in an airtight container.
Use your lemon balm sugar to sweeten tea, sprinkle over fruit, or add a little citrusy sweetness to baking.
What to Do With All That Lemon Balm
One of the best things about growing your own herbs is that you don't need to use them all at once. When your lemon balm starts taking over the garden, harvest some for tea, freeze some for later, and use the rest to experiment with homemade drinks and desserts.
It's inexpensive, easy to grow, and surprisingly versatile. Which is exactly the kind of plant I love having in my garden!
If you grow lemon balm, what is your favourite way to use it? I'd love to hear your ideas in the comments!
Simply Frugal Weekend Deals is here to bring you the best discounts and deals across Canada!
Whether you're hunting for home essentials, fashion finds, or something else, I've rounded up the best offers to help you stay on budget without sacrificing what you love.
From limited-time sales to secret coupon codes, I'll make sure your shopping is both fun and affordable.
Want this post to hit your email inbox? Sign up for the Simply Frugal Deals Email. You can do so here. It normally goes out every Friday.
Let's get started shall we? Get ready to shop smart and save more!
Like all of my other deal posts, this post contains affiliate links. You can read my disclosure policy here.
Well.ca
Well.ca's Customer Appreciation Event is on! Spend $100, and save $10 with Coupon Code THX10. Plus, take a look at some of the brands that are on sale this week: Green Beaver, Sisu, Organika Electrolytes, Stash, Blue Lizard, Live Clean, Boo Bamboo, Reactine, Manitoba Harvest, Yupik, The Bare Home, Flourish, Good Good and more! (ends August 9, 2026)
The Back to School event: Save 40 - 60% off kids styles AND adult styles from Gap Canada! Save an extra 40% off sale. Also, use the coupon code PERK to save another 10% off. (ends August 12, 2026)
The Semi-Annual sale is on now at DSW Canada! Save up to 70% off. It's a great time to get any shoes needed for school or sandals to finish off the summer.
Two day only: Save 50% off jeans for the family online at Old Navy Canada! (ends August 9, 2026) Back to school deals have also started and prices are starting at $8.
Have you checked out the “We Made Too Much” section online at Lululemon? I recently learned that they update this section every Thursday. They’ve got so much on sale with steep discounts! Men’s, women’s, bags, accessories, shoes and even an under $50 category!
Take an extra 35%, 30%, or 25% off all American Eagle – just for Real Rewards members! (free to sign up!) (ends August 10, 2026 at 5am ET) All jeans & pants on sale.
Build a Rocket Game! If you are looking for a fun activity to do with the family, The Home Depot has a great workshop for kids that will teach them about building. Kids can learn how to build their very own Go Kart! Free workshop is August 8, 2026 anytime between 9am – 12pm.
In my experience, Walmart has consistently been the place to get the lowest price on most school supplies. If it's not on sale, it's probably a good price anyways!
I'm trying something new with Amazon Deals and you'll have to let me know if you like it!
Amazon deals are incredibly time consuming to share the way I was previously with lists organized into categories. It always felt like by the time I finished, some deals would no longer be valid! That's not fun for you, and maybe feels misleading if something goes off deal sooner than anticipated.
So, because I have the ability to create lists directly on Amazon, I thought, why not send you there! It's a lot easier to keep updated. Perhaps more visually appealing too since you can see a picture of each item. Ultimately, I hope it's less frustrating for both of us.
You can check out my Canadian Amazon Storefront here. This is my storefront main page. As the seasons change and different holidays/occasions approach, I add new lists to cover those things.
But because I know you appreciate some organization. I have created separate lists for each category I had before. Here they are:
If you love growing fresh herbs during the summer, you may already have spearmint, peppermint, or chocolate mint growing in your garden. Mint is incredibly versatile and can be used for everything from refreshing drinks and desserts to simple crafts and homemade household items.
But there’s another variety of mint that deserves a little more attention: apple mint.
Apple mint has a fresh, fruity scent and a mild minty flavour with a hint of apple. It looks similar to other varieties of mint, but its soft, slightly fuzzy leaves make it easy to distinguish. In late summer, it can also produce pretty reddish or pinkish flowers that add a little extra interest to the garden.
And just like other types of mint, apple mint is surprisingly useful around the house.
If you've recently picked up an apple mint plant and aren't sure what to do with it, don't worry. There are plenty of ways to use apple mint, from making refreshing summer drinks to adding it to desserts, salads, and homemade household items.
Growing Apple Mint
Apple mint is a perennial herb that can grow in full sun or partial shade. It prefers well-drained soil and regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather.
Like other mint varieties, apple mint can spread quickly, so you may want to grow it in a container if you don't want it taking over your garden. If you plant it directly in the garden, give each plant plenty of room to grow.
Because apple mint is a perennial, it can return year after year in suitable climates. If you're growing it in a container, however, you'll need to consider your local winter conditions and whether the plant can survive outdoors.
Once you have a healthy plant, you'll have plenty of fresh leaves to experiment with.
15 Ways to Use Apple Mint
Wondering how to use apple mint once your plant starts producing lots of fresh leaves? Here are 15 simple ideas to try.
1. Add Apple Mint to Tea
One of the easiest ways to use apple mint is to make a simple cup of mint tea.
Rinse a few fresh leaves, add them to a mug, and pour hot water over them. Let the leaves steep for several minutes, then remove them and enjoy. You can also combine apple mint with other herbs for different flavour combinations.
2. Make Flavoured Water
Apple mint is perfect for making plain water feel a little more special.
Add a handful of rinsed leaves to a pitcher of cold water along with sliced lemon, lime, cucumber, berries, or apples. Let it chill in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.
3. Add It to Lemonade
Give homemade lemonade a fresh twist by adding a handful of apple mint leaves.
You can gently muddle a few leaves before adding them to the pitcher or simply use whole leaves as a garnish.
4. Make Mint Ice Cubes
This is a great way to use up extra apple mint.
Place small leaves into an ice cube tray, fill with water, and freeze. Add the minty ice cubes to water, lemonade, iced tea, or sparkling water.
They're also a simple and pretty addition to summer drinks when you're entertaining.
5. Add It to Fruit Salads
Apple mint pairs really nicely with summer fruit.
Try chopping a few leaves and tossing them with strawberries, watermelon, blueberries, peaches, pineapple, or cantaloupe. The fresh mint adds another layer of flavour to an otherwise simple fruit salad.
6. Make Apple Mint Syrup
Fresh apple mint can be used to make a simple syrup for drinks and desserts.
Just add 1 cup of water and 1 cup of white sugar to a saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved. Remove from heat and add 1 packed cup of fresh apple mint. Cover and let the mint steep for 20 - 30 minutes. Strain the syrup through a mesh strainer, pressing gently on the mint leaves to release the liquid. Let the syrup cool completely before transferring it to a clean jar or bottle. Store in the refrigerator and use within about 2 weeks.
Use your homemade syrup to flavour lemonade, iced tea, sparkling water, mocktails, fruit salads, or desserts.
7. Add It to Desserts
Fresh apple mint makes a nice garnish for desserts.
Add a few leaves to ice cream, fruit crisps, cakes, cupcakes, pudding, or a bowl of fresh berries. You can also finely chop the leaves and experiment with adding a small amount to fruit-based desserts.
8. Make Minty Fruit Popsicles
Blend your favourite summer fruit with water or juice and add a few finely chopped apple mint leaves.
Pour the mixture into popsicle molds and freeze.
Watermelon and mint, strawberry and mint, or peach and mint are all refreshing combinations.
9. Add It to Salads
Don't limit apple mint to drinks and desserts!
Finely chop a few leaves and add them to green salads, cucumber salads, grain salads, or salads made with fresh summer vegetables.
10. Make Homemade Salad Dressing
Apple mint can add a fresh twist to homemade salad dressings.
Try combining chopped mint with lemon juice or vinegar, olive oil, and a little honey. You can adjust the ingredients to create a dressing that works with your favourite summer salads.
11. Add It to Marinades
Fresh mint can also be used in homemade marinades.
Try combining chopped apple mint with lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and your favourite herbs and spices. It can work especially well with chicken, vegetables, or lamb.
12. Make Fresh Herb Butter
Soften some butter and mix in finely chopped apple mint along with a little lemon zest and salt.
Refrigerate it and use it on vegetables, corn on the cob, potatoes, or warm bread.
You can even freeze small portions so you have some ready whenever you need it.
13. Dry Apple Mint for Later
If your apple mint plant is producing more leaves than you can possibly use, don't let them go to waste.
Harvest the leaves and dry them using your preferred herb-drying method. Once completely dry, store them in an airtight container away from heat and direct sunlight.
Use the dried mint later for tea, cooking, or homemade herbal blends.
14. Make a Simple Homemade Air Freshener
Apple mint has a naturally fresh scent, making it useful for adding fragrance to your home.
Bundle a few stems together and hang them somewhere like a pantry, mudroom, or closet where they can dry naturally.
You can also place dried leaves in a small fabric sachet and tuck it into a linen closet or drawer.
15. Use Apple Mint in Summer Decorations
Apple mint is pretty enough to use as part of a simple summer centerpiece.
Add fresh stems to a vase with flowers, tuck a few sprigs around a serving platter, or place a small bunch beside each place setting.
It's an inexpensive way to add greenery and fragrance to your summer table using something you grew yourself.
More Ways to Use Apple Mint
If you have a really productive plant, don't stop at these 15 ideas. Here are a few more ways to use apple mint:
Add fresh leaves to iced tea.
Use it as a garnish for fruit platters.
Add chopped leaves to homemade salsa.
Mix it into a yogurt-based dip.
Add a few leaves to sparkling water.
Make mint-infused vinegar for salad dressings.
Add fresh mint to homemade fruit compotes.
Freeze chopped leaves in small portions to use later.
Add fresh mint to smoothies.
Use it to flavour homemade fruit sauces.
Don't Let Your Apple Mint Go to Waste
One of the best things about growing herbs like apple mint is that you don't need to use everything immediately. If your plant starts producing more mint than you can keep up with, harvest some and preserve it for later.
You can dry the leaves, freeze them in ice cubes, or make something such as mint syrup that you can enjoy after the growing season is over.
So the next time you see apple mint at your local garden centre, don't overlook it. It's a pretty, useful herb that can provide you with fresh flavour, fragrance, and lots of inexpensive ways to enjoy what you've grown.
And if you're already growing apple mint, hopefully these 15 ways to use apple mint have given you some new ideas for putting that plant to good use!
How to Be Frugal: Simple Tips to Save Money and Live Well
Learning how to be frugal is one of the best ways to reduce financial stress and feel more in control of your money. Frugal living doesn’t mean depriving yourself or never spending money. It simply means being intentional with your spending and making smarter financial choices.
At its core, frugality is about living well within your means. When you spend less than you earn, you create room in your budget for savings, emergencies, and future goals. Knowing how to be frugal can help you feel more prepared when unexpected expenses pop up and can give you peace of mind during difficult financial seasons.
Years ago, frugal living was simply a normal way of life. Families cooked from scratch, reused what they had, grew gardens, and found creative ways to stretch their budgets. Today, with rising grocery prices, inflation, and increasing living costs, more people are searching for practical ways to save money and learn how to be frugal in everyday life.
The good news is that it’s never too late to start.
You don’t need to completely change your life overnight. Small habits and simple lifestyle changes can make a huge difference over time. Learning how to be frugal is all about making progress little by little and finding ways to live comfortably while spending less.
If you’re wondering how to be frugal, here are some practical tips to help you get started:
1. Never Spend More Than You Earn
One of the most important frugal habits is learning to live below your means. Track your spending, create a simple budget, and avoid relying on credit cards for everyday expenses whenever possible.
Eating out and ordering takeout can drain your budget quickly. Cooking simple meals at home is one of the easiest ways to save money. Start with easy, affordable recipes and build a list of go-to family favourites.
3. Grow Your Own Food
Even a small garden can help reduce grocery costs. Herbs, lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers are beginner-friendly options that can save money throughout the growing season.
4. Use the Library
Libraries offer free books, audiobooks, movies, magazines, and more. Using your local library is a simple and effective way to be frugal while still enjoying entertainment and learning opportunities.
5. Cut Unnecessary Subscriptions
Review your monthly expenses and cancel subscriptions you rarely use. Streaming services, apps, and memberships can quietly eat away at your budget each month.
6. Prioritize Your Spending
Spend money on the things that matter most to you and cut back on the things that don’t. Being frugal doesn’t mean never spending money. It means spending intentionally.
7. Compare Prices Before Buying
Take a few extra minutes to compare prices online and in stores before making purchases. Watching for sales and using cashback apps can help you save even more.
8. Keep a Price Book
A price book is a simple way to track the regular prices of items you buy often. This helps you recognize a genuine sale and know when it’s the best time to stock up.
9. Reuse and Repurpose What You Have
Before buying something new, see if you can reuse, repair, or repurpose something you already own. Frugal living often means making the most of what you already have.
10. Make Things From Scratch
Homemade meals, snacks, coffee drinks, and cleaning products are often far cheaper than store-bought versions. Learning basic DIY skills can save a lot of money over time.
11. Use Coupons and Cashback Apps
Coupons still work, especially when paired with sales. Cashback apps and rewards programs are another easy way to reduce your grocery and household expenses.
12. Buy Less Overall
One of the simplest answers to how to be frugal is to buy less. Use what you already have before purchasing more clothing, beauty products, decor, or household items.
Learning how to be frugal is a journey, not an overnight transformation. Every small change you make can help improve your financial situation and reduce stress over time. Frugal living is ultimately about being resourceful, intentional, and confident with your money so you can build a more stable and peaceful life.
Way back in January 2008, I challenged myself to go an entire month without buying anything we didn't absolutely need. A month-long No Spend Challenge. The only things I allowed myself to pay for was groceries and monthly bills. My husband and I were newly married in 2007 and at the time I was working a seasonal job with winters off.
It wasn't because I wanted to become "the frugal person." I wasn't trying to make a statement or see how little I could live on. I simply wanted to take a closer look at where our money was going and stop buying useless junk that I usually ended up decluttering. I had a feeling we were spending more out of habit than necessity.
I expected the month to feel very restrictive. I imagined constantly telling myself "no" and counting down the days until it was over.
Instead, something unexpected happened.
The challenge forced me to slow down before buying anything. I started shopping my pantry and making meal plans before heading to the grocery store. I found creative ways to use what we already had. Instead of browsing the stores, I decluttered our house. I rekindled some hobbies. (I found uncompleted sewing projects while I was decluttering!) I realized how many of my purchases had been automatic rather than intentional.
By the end of those thirty days, we had saved money. But that wasn't the biggest surprise.
The biggest surprise was how much lighter I felt. I wasn't constantly chasing the next purchase or wondering where our money had gone. I realized that living frugally wasn't about deprivation. It was about being intentional with the money we worked so hard to earn.
That one month experiment ended, but the mindset never did.
Over the past 18 years, my version of frugal living has evolved. Some of the things I used to do no longer make sense. New tools and technology have changed the way I save money. But many of the habits I developed during that very first no-spend challenge are still part of my everyday life.
Looking back now, I've learned what truly saves money, what wastes time, and what purchases are worth every penny. If you're curious about what nearly two decades of frugal living has taught me, here's an honest look at what has changed, what hasn't, and the habits I still rely on today.
Table of Contents
What Frugal Living Looked Like 18 Years Ago
When I first started living more frugally, things looked a lot different than they do today.
There were no grocery pickup orders, cashback apps, or browser extensions that automatically searched for coupon codes. Forget about frequent Amazon deliveries! If you wanted to save money, you had to be much more hands-on.
Every week, I'd live for the coupon booklets (remember SmartSource?) and flyers that came in the Sunday newspaper. I'd sit down and cut out all the coupons, compare prices, and make my shopping list based on what was on sale. I would match the coupons up with items that were on sale, planned meals around store sales and often visited more than one grocery store if the savings made it worthwhile.
Meal planning quickly became one of my biggest money saving habits. Before heading to the store, I'd check the pantry, fridge, and freezer to see what we already had. Instead of deciding what sounded good for dinner, I'd build meals around ingredients that needed to be used first.
Cooking at home became the norm. We packed lunches, made coffee at home, baked more often, and stocked the freezer with freezer meals for the days I didn't feel like cooking. Leftovers were almost never wasted because they usually became lunch the next day.
We became experts in borrowing and accepting free things. Most of our furniture was given to us. We didn't care about aesthetics! We borrowed baby clothes from family and friends. Streaming services like Netflix and Prime didn't exist back then so we borrowed shows and movies. It was great because we could just give everything back when we were finished. Or donate our furniture with zero regrets.
We also found lots of free entertainment. Movie nights borrowed from the library, afternoons at the beach, hiking trails, and free community events became regular parts of our lives. Looking back, some of our favourite memories didn't cost much at all.
Of course, not everything I tried was a success. Like many people starting their frugal journey, I experimented with homemade cleaners, DIY projects, and every money saving tip I could find online. Some became lasting habits, while others quietly disappeared after I realized they weren't saving enough time or money to be worthwhile.
What I remember most, though, wasn't any specific trick or tip. It was the shift in how I thought about spending. Instead of asking, "Can I afford this?" I started asking, "Do I actually need this?" That one simple question probably saved us more money than any coupon ever could.
What Has Changed
While the heart of frugal living has stayed the same for me, the way I save money has definitely changed over the past 18 years.
Technology has made many things easier. Instead of flipping through paper flyers, I browse digital ones from my phone. I can compare prices online in minutes, order groceries for pickup to avoid impulse purchases, and use cashback apps and rewards programs without carrying around a stack of coupons and loyalty cards.
Shopping has changed too. Years ago, finding a good deal often meant driving from store to store. Now I can quickly compare prices, set price alerts, or wait for a sale without leaving the house. It saves both time and money.
I've also become much more selective about where I put my energy. I know that my time has value too.
Saving $2 isn't worth an extra hour of my day. Sometimes paying a little more is the better choice if it saves time. Besides, I've since learned that if I stop at another store for a deal, I usually end up buying more than more than I intended!
One of the biggest changes is that I no longer focus on being as cheap as possible. Instead, I focus on getting the best value.
For example, I've learned that buying a well made pair of winter boots that lasts for years is often cheaper than replacing inexpensive ones every season. A quality kitchen tool that gets used several times a week can be a smarter purchase than the cheapest option on the shelf.
I've also become much more intentional about what I bring into our home. In the beginning, I was excited whenever I found a great deal. Now I know that a bargain isn't really a bargain if it wasn't something I needed in the first place.
Perhaps the biggest change is that frugal living no longer feels like something I have to think about every day. It's just our way of life and doesn't feel restrictive.
The habits I worked so hard to build during those first few years have simply become part of how we live. Meal planning, checking the pantry before shopping, waiting before impulse purchases, and looking for good value all happen almost automatically now.
After 18 years, I've realized that frugal living isn't about constantly finding new ways to save money. It's about creating habits that make spending intentionally feel effortless.
What Hasn't Changed
Even though the way I save money has evolved over the years, I've been surprised by how many of the simplest habits are still the most effective.
Meal planning is still one of the biggest ways I save money. Taking just a few minutes each week to decide what's for dinner helps me avoid last-minute takeout, lessens food waste, and makes grocery shopping much less stressful. Eighteen years later, it's still one of the best returns on the small amount of time it takes.
I also still check my pantry, fridge, and freezer before making a grocery list. It's amazing how often I already have the ingredients for several meals hiding in plain sight. Using what we already own has always been one of the easiest ways to spend less.
Shopping with a list is another habit that has never gone out of style. I have a notepad on the fridge where I jot down the things we run out of right away so I don't forget something we use all the time. Whether I'm walking through the grocery store or filling an online cart, having a plan helps me stay focused and avoid impulse purchases.
Waiting before buying something I want has also saved me countless dollars over the years. Most purchases don't need to happen immediately. Giving myself a little time to think usually helps me decide whether it's something I'll truly use or just something that caught my attention in the moment.
We have probably saved thousands over the years by shopping secondhand or borrowing items. Often, we end up with better quality than we could have afforded buying new.
This leads me to my next topic. We avoid debt as much as we can. This means we buy everything we can, including used vehicles with cash. The only debt we have had is our mortgage, which we have since paid off by putting down the maximum allowed once a year on top of our monthly payments.
Another habit that has stood the test of time is taking care of what we already own. Cleaning, maintaining, and repairing things whenever possible helps them last longer and delays the need to replace them. Thanks to YouTube, my husband has fixed our washing machine, dryer and air conditioner! Looking after what you have is one of the most overlooked ways to save money.
More than anything, though, what hasn't changed is my mindset.
Frugal living has never been about saying "no" to everything. It's about spending with purpose. It's asking whether something adds real value to our lives instead of buying it simply because it's on sale, trendy, or convenient.
After 18 years, I've realized that the biggest savings rarely come from complicated tricks or extreme sacrifices. They come from small, consistent habits repeated over and over again. Those habits may not be exciting, but they've made a lasting difference in our finances. They've become such a natural part of life that I hardly think about them anymore!
The Habits I still Use Every Week
Here's a checklist of the habits I still use 18 years later:
I always meal plan. Not because I enjoy it. But because every meal I don't plan usually costs me more. Some weeks, I only have a rough idea and that still helps! I have a dedicated notebook for meal plans and I find it's helpful too look back at old plans when I need inspiration.
I check my pantry, fridge and freezer first. It's amazing how often dinner is already sitting there!
I wait before buying most things. With the exception of groceries, very few purchases need to happen in the end if I wait. I'll find I don't need it, have something similar already or I'll fix what I already have.
I compare prices. Not obsessively, just enough to know if I'm overpaying. This is also handy for you when I share deals in Instagram stories or Facebook!
I search for deals on family activities. If it's not a free activity, you can bet I will try my hardest to save us some money! This includes any flights or hotels we may need for travel.
I look for the best value, not just the lowest price. Especially at the grocery store.
I check Checkout 51 and Caddle for cashback offers that I can use as well as Rakuten if I'm making online purchases.
Here's my personal Weekly Frugal Checklist:
✓ Plan this week's dinners
✓ Check the pantry before shopping
✓ Make (and stick to) a grocery list
✓ Review upcoming sales
✓ Wait before buying non-essentials
✓ Use leftovers for at least one meal
✓ Declutter one small area before buying new
What I No Longer Bother Doing
When I first started living frugally, I was willing to try just about every money-saving tip I came across. But over the years, I have learned that some things just aren't worth it to me anymore. Here's what I don't do anymore:
drive across town to save $2
make everything from scratch
keep hundreds of coupons
buy things just because they're on sale
feel guilty about spending money
stocking up on things we won't use
buy cheap products that wear out
trying to be a "perfect" frugal person (confession: we don't budget and I really love spending money on restaurant meals and coffee out.)
Where I Happily Spend Money
Yes, frugal people absolutely spend money! Here's what our family chooses to spend money on:
Good shoes. But almost always on sale!
A quality vacuum. If you maintain it, a good quality vacuum will last years!
Kitchen appliances we use daily. When you buy good quality, you don't have to replace them very often! Our KitchenAid stand mixer and toaster are still going strong after almost 20 years!
Travel. We love to travel! We save money in other areas of our life so we can splurge a bit while we travel. But I live for travel deals!
Extracurricular activities. We highly value extracurricular activities. These days, that looks like competitive dance and gymnastics for our daughters. A lot of money goes towards these but the benefits far outweigh the price. My husband is currently dealing with a knee injury, but he also plays soccer.
Experiences. Our family often does free or cheap activities, but love to do the occasional amusement park or similar activity!
High-quality winter clothing. It's not fun being cold or wet in the winter. The sorels I bought as a young adult are still in excellent condition, no regrets!
Coffee with a friend and dinner/lunch out. I mentioned that I love a meal or coffee out. Firstly, I don't have to cook or clean up after. But secondly, I love the time spent connecting with someone I care about.
Books. I love borrowing books and audiobooks from the library, but my husband and oldest like to buy books.
What I'd Tell Someone Starting Today
If you're just starting to live more frugally, my biggest piece of advice is this: don't try to change everything all at once.
When I began my month long no spend challenge 18 years ago, I had no idea it would completely change the way I thought about money. I certainly didn't adopt every frugal habit overnight. The biggest changes happened gradually, one small habit at a time.
Start with one thing that feels manageable. Maybe it's meal planning once a week. Maybe it's making granola bars instead of buying them. Maybe it's checking your pantry before grocery shopping or waiting 24 hours before buying something you want. Small habits may not feel life changing in the moment, but when you repeat them week after week and year after year, they add up in ways you can't imagine.
I'd also encourage you to stop comparing your journey to anyone else's. Frugal living isn't a competition to see who can spend the least money or make the most things from scratch. It's about making thoughtful decisions with the money you have and building a life that reflects your priorities.
Finally, remember that frugal living isn't about deprivation. It's about freedom. It's about creating breathing room in your finances, reducing financial stress, and spending confidently on the things that truly matter to you. If you can shift your mindset from "What am I giving up?" to "What am I gaining?" you'll find that living frugally feels far more rewarding than restrictive.
Looking back, I'm so grateful I decided to try that no spend challenge all those years ago. I thought I was learning how to spend less, but what I was really learning was how to live with more intention. And that's a lesson that's been worth far more than the money we've saved along the way.
After 18 years, I'm still learning, still adapting, and still finding new ways to spend more intentionally. Frugal living has never been about having less. It has always been about making the most of what we have.
Now I'd love to hear from you: What's one frugal habit you'll never give up? Share it in the comments below!
Imagine this for a moment. You've just pulled a warm loaf of homemade bread from the oven. The kitchen smells incredible, the crust is perfectly golden, and you can't wait to slice into it. Or maybe you've baked a batch of fluffy muffins, stacked pancakes high on a plate, or made crispy French toast for a slow weekend breakfast.
Now imagine spreading a thick layer of light, fluffy blackberry honey butter over top. As it melts into the warm bread, the sweet honey and juicy blackberry flavor blend with the rich, creamy butter to create something absolutely irresistible.
Sounds amazing, doesn't it?
This homemade blackberry honey butter is one of those recipes that feels a little fancy but couldn't be easier to make. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a few minutes of your time, you'll have a delicious flavored butter that's perfect for breakfast, brunch, afternoon tea, or even holiday dinners.
The combination of sweet honey and fresh blackberries creates a beautiful balance of flavors. The honey adds natural sweetness while the blackberries bring a bright, slightly tart taste that keeps the butter from being overly sweet. Whipping everything together also gives the butter a light, airy texture that's easy to spread.
It's the kind of recipe that makes everyday meals feel special. Serve it alongside warm biscuits, fresh dinner rolls, scones, cornbread, waffles, pancakes, or even toasted bagels. It's also a wonderful addition to brunch boards and makes a thoughtful homemade gift when packaged in a small mason jar with a ribbon.
If you're entertaining guests, don't be surprised when everyone asks for the recipe. It looks beautiful on the table, tastes like something from a cozy café, and takes almost no effort to prepare.
Whether you're looking for a simple brunch upgrade or a delicious way to use fresh blackberries during berry season, this whipped blackberry honey butter is guaranteed to become a new favorite.
Here's how to make delicious homemade blackberry honey butter that everyone will rave about:
INGREDIENTS:
1 cup softened butter
1/4 cup Honey
1/4 cup Blackberries
INSTRUCTIONS:
Whip butter and honey until fluffy.
Add Blackberries and mix just until berries break up and are distributed throughout the butter.
Either scoop the butter mix into a jar and seal or form into a log and refigerate.
Add blackberries and mix just until berries break up and are distributed throughout the butter.
Either scoop the butter mix into a jar and seal or form into a log and refrigerate.
One of the best things about this homemade blackberry honey butter is how easy it is to customize. If you're missing an ingredient or simply want to try a different flavor, here are a few simple substitutions that work well:
Instead of blackberries:
Raspberries for a slightly tangier flavor.
Blueberries for a milder sweetness.
Strawberries (chopped small) for a classic berry butter that's perfect in the spring and summer.
Mixed berries for a colorful twist.
Instead of Honey:
Maple syrup for a warm, cozy flavor.
Agave syrup for a mild sweetness.
Powdered sugar if you prefer a sweeter, more traditional whipped butter.
Extra additions:
Vanilla
Lemon juice or lemon zest
Cinnamon
Pinch of sea salt if you used unsalted butter
Fresh Rosemary or thyme (would be nice on warm dinner rolls!)
Now if you'll excuse me, I think it's time for a snack! 🙂
Yeah, yeah... I'm sure you've heard it before: Use your local library to borrow books instead of buying new ones.
And while your library is definitely a great place to get your reading fix without spending a fortune, there's so much more to your local library than shelves full of books!
If you're looking for easy ways to save money, your library may be one of the most underused resources in your community. Many libraries offer free access to entertainment, educational programs, digital resources, and activities for the whole family. All included with your library card!
Here are 9 unique ways the library can save you money:
1. Borrow DVDs and CDs
Before you spend money on a movie or music album, check your local library's collection.
Many libraries have an impressive selection of DVDs, including popular movies, classic films, documentaries, and TV series. Some also offer CDs and other types of media.
While you can often find movies and music for relatively little money these days, borrowing them for free can save you money over time. Especially if your family enjoys watching movies together.
And if you only plan to watch something once, why buy it?
2. Borrow Audiobooks for Free
Love audiobooks like me? Your library card may give you access to a huge selection without the monthly subscription fee.
Many libraries offer downloadable audiobooks through apps such as Libby, allowing you to borrow titles and listen right from your phone or tablet.
This can be a great way to enjoy audiobooks without paying for a separate audiobook subscription. You can listen while you're walking, driving, cleaning the house, or doing other everyday tasks.
If you haven't explored your library's digital audiobook collection yet, it's definitely worth checking out!
3. Download Free eBooks
If you enjoy reading eBooks, your library may be able to save you money here, too.
Many libraries offer thousands of eBooks that you can borrow and read on your phone, tablet, eReader, or computer. You may be able to access them through your library's website or an app such as Libby.
Instead of buying an eBook every time you want something new to read, check your library first. You might be surprised by how many popular titles and new releases are available.
4. Read Digital Magazines for Free
Magazine subscriptions can really add up, but your library card may give you free access to digital magazines.
Depending on your local library system, you may be able to read popular magazines from your phone, tablet, or computer without paying for an individual subscription.
Check your library's website to see which digital magazines are available and how to access them.
This is an especially great way to save money if you regularly subscribe to several magazines.
5. Take Advantage of Free Kids' Programs
If you have kids, your local library can be an incredible resource for free family activities.
Many libraries offer storytimes, sing-alongs, craft programs, reading clubs, and seasonal activities for children. Some also run summer reading programs that encourage kids to keep reading while school is out.
My daughters regularly attended story time when they were younger and loved listening to stories and joining in with the songs.
These programs are a great way to keep kids entertained and engaged without spending money on expensive classes or activities.
6. Find Free Things to Do With the Family
Looking for something to do on a weekend or a rainy afternoon? Check your library's event calendar before spending money on entertainment.
When I was browsing our library's website, I was surprised by all of the free activities they offered. There was a scavenger hunt, a quilting circle, a little mermaids academy, escape rooms, a mahjong group and so much more.
Your library may offer everything from craft nights and board game sessions to guest speakers, workshops, and family events.
The programs available will vary from one library to another, so take a few minutes to browse your local library's calendar. You may discover a whole list of free things to do!
7. Borrow More Than Books
One of the best ways to save money with your library is to find out what you can borrow besides books.
Depending on where you live, libraries may lend out things like:
Board games and puzzles
Video games
Museum or attraction passes
Educational kits
Technology and electronics
Tools or household items
Seed libraries and gardening resources
Cooking equipment
Sports and recreation equipment
Not every library offers these items, but it's worth checking. You may be able to borrow something you need instead of buying it for a one-time project or occasional use.
8. Get Free Access to Online Learning
Want to learn a new skill without paying for an expensive course?
Your library may offer free access to online learning platforms, educational databases, language-learning resources, computer courses, and more.
Whether you're interested in learning a new language, improving your computer skills, researching your family history, or picking up a new hobby, check to see what resources are available through your library card.
You may already have access to resources that would otherwise cost you a monthly subscription or course fee.
9. Use the Library as Your Free Meeting Place
Sometimes saving money isn't about finding a cheaper version of something, it's about finding a free alternative altogether!
Instead of meeting a friend at a coffee shop, consider meeting at the library. Rather than paying for entertainment every time you want to get out of the house, see what's happening at your local branch. Maybe there's an event that would be interesting to you both! Or, our library offers free use of a 3D printer, Cricut, sewing machines, sound booth and more. Maybe yours does too?
Libraries can be a great place to read, study, work, browse, attend events, or simply get out of the house without spending money.
Your Library Card Could Be One of Your Best Money-Saving Tools
As you can see, your library is about so much more than borrowing books!
If you're trying to save money, reduce your entertainment expenses, or find more free activities for your family, your library card could be one of the most valuable cards in your wallet.
Take a few minutes to visit your library's website or stop by your local branch and see what's available. You will probably discover free resources and services you didn't even know existed.
How often do you use your library? What is the most unusual or surprising thing you've been able to borrow or do for free through your library?
Removing nail polish isn't exactly difficult, but sometimes you just want a quick and mess-free way to get the job done—especially when you're in a hurry or have kids who want to do everything themselves!
These DIY "twist and scrub" nail polish remover jars are super convenient. No cotton balls, no dripping remover, and no messy cleanup. Simply insert your finger into the centre of the sponge, twist it around a few times, and watch the polish disappear. It's a simple solution for quick polish changes at home.
The best part? You can easily make your own version of those convenient store-bought nail polish remover jars using just a few inexpensive supplies.
Here's how to make your own quick and easy DIY nail polish remover jar:
1. Cut 1/4" off the longest end of your sponges (or more if your Mason jar is shorter)
2. Roll your large sponge piece from short side to short side and place that sponge on top of your other large sponge and roll that sponge around your rolled sponge
3. Push your rolled sponges into your glass jar with the rolled side facing up 4. Cut your scrub sponges small enough to fit in the empty spaces and place into the jar 5. Fill your jar halfway up with your Nail Polish remover
6. When you want use it, shake the jar with the lid on. Take the lid off and stick your polished fingers into the center and twist.
Once you've made one, you'll wonder why you didn't try it sooner! Keep your DIY twist & scrub nail polish remover jar in your bathroom or wherever you usually do your nails, and you'll always have an easy, mess-free way to remove polish when you need it. It's a small DIY that makes one of those everyday tasks just a little bit easier.
How to Meal Prep for the Week: A Simple Guide for Busy Families
Meal prepping can be a simple way to save both time and money. By planning your meals ahead of time, you can shop for only the ingredients you actually need, reduce food waste, and avoid the temptation of grabbing takeout when you're too tired to figure out what's for dinner.
Cooking every breakfast, lunch, and dinner for an entire week in one day might sound overwhelming, but you don't have to do it all at once! Meal prepping can be as simple as chopping a few vegetables, cooking a batch of chicken, or preparing a big pot of soup that you can enjoy throughout the week.
With a little planning, you'll make busy weekdays easier, stretch your grocery budget further, and hopefully hear a lot less of the dreaded "What's for dinner?"
1. Start by Planning Your Meals
Before you head to the grocery store, take a few minutes to decide what you'll eat for the week.
Look at your schedule first. If you have a busy evening filled with activities, choose something quick and easy. If you have more time on another night, that's a good opportunity to make a meal that requires a little more cooking.
You don't need to plan seven completely different dinners. In fact, keeping things simple is one of the best ways to make meal prepping manageable.
Try planning:
2–3 breakfast options
2–3 lunch options
4–5 dinners
A few easy snacks
Then plan to eat leftovers for lunch or repurpose ingredients in different meals.
For example, a batch of roasted chicken can become:
Chicken and rice bowls
Chicken wraps
Chicken salad
Chicken quesadillas
A topping for a big salad
One ingredient can do a lot of work!
2. Check Your Fridge, Freezer, and Pantry
Before making your grocery list, take a quick inventory of what you already have.
You may already have pasta in the pantry, frozen vegetables in the freezer, or ingredients that need to be used up soon. Building your meal plan around what you already have is an easy way to save money and reduce food waste.
Think of it as a "shop your kitchen first" challenge.
3. Make a Grocery List
Once you've planned your meals, write down everything you'll need. Group your list by section of the grocery store, such as:
Produce
Meat and protein
Dairy
Pantry
Frozen foods
Snacks
This makes shopping faster and can help you avoid wandering through the aisles and adding things to your cart that weren't a part of the plan.
It can also help to check your grocery store's weekly flyer before shopping. If chicken is on sale, for example, you might build several meals around it and freeze anything you won't use right away.
4. Choose a Meal Prep Day
Pick one day each week when you have some time to prepare food.
For many people, Sunday works well, but there's no rule that says meal prep has to happen on a particular day.
You could also split your prep into two shorter sessions. For example, prepare your breakfasts and lunches on Sunday, then do a quick dinner prep on Wednesday.
The goal isn't to spend your entire day in the kitchen. It's to make the rest of your week easier.
5. Prep Ingredients Instead of Complete Meals
You don't have to cook seven complete meals in advance. Sometimes, the easiest approach is to prepare individual ingredients that can be mixed and matched throughout the week.
Try:
Washing and chopping vegetables
Cooking a batch of rice or quinoa
Hard-boiling eggs
Roasting vegetables
Cooking chicken or ground meat
Washing fruit
Making a simple salad dressing
Portioning snacks into containers
Preparing overnight oats
Then you can quickly assemble different meals throughout the week. This approach also gives you more flexibility if you suddenly don't feel like eating the meal you planned for Tuesday.
6. Keep Breakfast Simple
Breakfast doesn't need to be complicated. Choose one or two easy options that can be prepared ahead of time.
Some ideas include:
Overnight oats
Hard-boiled eggs and toast
Yogurt and fruit
Breakfast sandwiches
Smoothie freezer packs
Muffins and fruit
Egg bites
Peanut butter toast with a banana
If mornings are particularly hectic, preparing breakfast ahead of time can make a huge difference.
7. Prep Easy Lunches
Lunch is a great place to use leftovers.
Instead of making an entirely separate lunch every day, cook extra portions at dinner and pack the leftovers for the next day's lunch.
Other easy lunch ideas include:
Chicken and rice bowls
Pasta salad
Wraps
Soup
Chili
Grain bowls
Big salads with protein
Quesadillas
Keep a few easy lunch staples on hand so you're never tempted to buy lunch simply because there's nothing ready to eat.
8. Make Dinner Work Smarter
When planning dinners, think about how you can use ingredients more than once.
For example, roast a large batch of vegetables on Sunday. Serve them as a side dish one night, add them to grain bowls another night, and toss them into wraps later in the week.
You can also cook extra protein and use it in several different ways.
The key is to cook once and eat twice, or even three times!
9. Don't Forget Snacks
Prepping snacks can help prevent those mid-afternoon trips to the pantry to grab something easy and not so healthy.
Try portioning snacks into grab-and-go containers at the beginning of the week. Keep snacks where they're easy to grab when you're heading out the door.
Glass containers are great for reheating meals, while lightweight plastic containers can be convenient for lunches and snacks.
You don't need to buy an entire new collection of containers to get started. Use what you already have and add to your collection over time if needed. If you do need containers, I've rounded up some good meal prep container options here.
11. Label Your Meals
If you're preparing several meals at once, it can be helpful to label containers with the meal and date. This makes it easier to see what's available and helps ensure that older food gets eaten first. A simple piece of masking tape and a Sharpie works perfectly.
12. Don't Prep More Than You'll Eat
One of the biggest meal prep mistakes is preparing too much food.
If your family doesn't enjoy eating the same meal several days in a row, don't make five servings of the same dinner. Instead, prepare smaller batches or freeze extra portions for another week.
Meal prepping should help reduce food waste not create more of it.
13. Freeze What You Won't Eat
If you know you won't eat something before it goes bad, freeze it! Soups, chili, cooked meat, casseroles, pasta sauce, muffins, and many other foods freeze well.
Freezing leftovers can give you a collection of easy homemade "ready meals" for those nights when cooking is the last thing you want to do.
Just remember to label everything with the name and date so you know what you're pulling out of the freezer.
Simple Weekly Meal Prep Schedule
Here's an example of how you could organize your meal prep day:
Sunday
Breakfast
Prepare overnight oats
Hard-boil eggs
Wash and portion fruit
Lunch
Cook chicken
Prepare rice
Chop vegetables
Make a simple dressing
Dinner
Make a large batch of chili
Portion leftovers for lunches or freeze extras
Snacks
Portion crackers and cheese
Wash fruit
Prepare vegetables and hummus
This might take a little time upfront, but you'll have several meal components ready to go for the week.
Sample Weekly Meal Plan
Here's a simple meal plan designed to minimize cooking and maximize leftovers.
Monday
Breakfast: Overnight oats with berries Lunch: Chicken and rice bowl with roasted vegetables Dinner: Turkey chili with cornbread Snack: Apple with peanut butter
Tuesday
Breakfast: Scrambled eggs and toast Lunch: Leftover turkey chili Dinner: Sheet-pan chicken, potatoes, and vegetables Snack: Yogurt and berries
Wednesday
Breakfast: Overnight oats with banana Lunch: Chicken and vegetable wrap Dinner: Spaghetti with meat sauce and a side salad Snack: Cheese and crackers
Thursday
Breakfast: Eggs and toast with fruit Lunch: Leftover spaghetti and salad Dinner: Chicken quesadillas with vegetables and salsa Snack: Hummus and carrots
Friday
Breakfast: Yogurt, granola, and fruit Lunch: Chicken and rice bowl Dinner: Homemade pizza using naan or flatbread Snack: Popcorn
Saturday
Breakfast: Pancakes with fruit Lunch: Leftovers or sandwiches Dinner: Easy burgers with oven fries and salad Snack: Fruit and yogurt
Sunday
Breakfast: Eggs, toast, and fruit Lunch: Leftover burgers or wraps Dinner: Slow-cooker soup or chili Snack: Popcorn or fresh fruit
Don't feel like you need to follow this meal plan exactly. Swap meals based on what your family likes, what's on sale, and what you already have at home. This is just to give you ideas of what you could do.
Sample Meal Prep Grocery List
Use this as a starting point and adjust it based on your family's preferences and what you already have in your pantry.
Produce
☐ Bananas ☐ Apples ☐ Berries ☐ Grapes ☐ Potatoes ☐ Carrots ☐ Bell peppers ☐ Broccoli ☐ Lettuce or salad greens ☐ Cucumbers ☐ Onions ☐ Garlic ☐ Avocados
Meat & Protein
☐ Chicken breasts or thighs ☐ Ground turkey or ground beef ☐ Eggs ☐ Hummus ☐ Peanut butter
☐ Oats ☐ Rice ☐ Pasta ☐ Pasta sauce ☐ Canned beans ☐ Canned tomatoes ☐ Chicken or vegetable broth ☐ Tortillas or wraps ☐ Bread ☐ Crackers ☐ Granola ☐ Popcorn ☐ Salsa ☐ Olive oil ☐ Salad dressing ☐ Your favourite seasonings and spices
Frozen
☐ Frozen berries ☐ Frozen mixed vegetables ☐ Frozen fruit for smoothies ☐ Frozen pizza or naan, if desired
A Simple Meal Prep Routine to Try
If the thought of spending hours cooking every Sunday makes you want to skip meal prep altogether, start small. Try this simple routine:
1. Pick your meals. Choose a few breakfasts, lunches, and dinners for the week.
2. Check what you already have. Shop your fridge, freezer, and pantry before making your grocery list.
3. Make your grocery list. Only buy what you need for the meals you've planned.
4. Prep a few basics. Cook one protein, one grain, and a tray of vegetables.
5. Prepare a few breakfasts and snacks. Make overnight oats, wash fruit, or portion grab-and-go snacks.
6. Use leftovers strategically. Plan to turn dinner leftovers into the next day's lunch.
7. Freeze extras. If you won't eat something in time, freeze it for a future meal.
Remember, meal prepping doesn't have to mean spending your entire Sunday cooking. Even 30 minutes of preparation can make your week easier.
The goal isn't to create a picture-perfect fridge filled with identical meal prep containers. It's simply to make your future self's life a little easier.
Because sometimes the best meal prep win is opening the fridge at 5 p.m. and realizing that dinner is already halfway done. That is the best feeling!
