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?
How to Cut Household Expenses Without Feeling Deprived
If your budget feels tighter than usual, you're not alone. Rising prices on groceries, utilities, and everyday essentials have made it more challenging for many families to make ends meet. The good news is that learning how to cut household expenses doesn't have to mean sacrificing everything you enjoy.
In fact, many households spend money each month on subscriptions they no longer use, services they could downgrade, or habits that quietly drain their budget without adding much value. By taking just a few minutes to review your regular expenses, you may be surprised by how much you can save.
These simple money-saving ideas take about 15 minutes or less to complete and can help you lower your monthly bills without making major lifestyle changes. Whether you're trying to stop living paycheck to paycheck, build an emergency fund, or simply create more breathing room in your budget, these practical tips can help you keep more of your hard-earned money.
Turn Off Unused Electronics
One of the quickest ways to cut household expenses is to reduce your electricity usage. Take 15 minutes to walk through your home and turn off lights, TVs, gaming systems, computers, and other electronics that aren't being used. Unplug chargers and small appliances that draw power even when they're turned off, or plug them into a power bar that can be switched off easily.
These small changes can help lower your monthly utility bills and even keep your home a little cooler during the summer months.
Wash Laundry in Cold Water
A simple way to cut household expenses is to switch your washing machine to the cold water setting. Most modern laundry detergents are designed to work effectively in cold water, so your everyday clothes will still come out fresh and clean without using extra energy to heat the water.
Using cold water can also help your clothes last longer by reducing fading, shrinking, and wear on fabrics. That's a win for both your budget and your wardrobe. As an added bonus, hang dry your clothes as often as possible.
Clip (or Download) Coupons for Items You Already Buy
Coupons are still one of the easiest ways to save money, but you don't have to spend hours searching for them. Check your favourite grocery store apps, loyalty programs, and digital coupon websites, or browse the weekly flyers for products you regularly purchase.
The key is to only use coupons for items you were already planning to buy. Saving a few dollars on each shopping trip can easily add up to hundreds of dollars over the course of a year.
Check Your Cell Phone Plan
Your cell phone bill is one of those monthly expenses that's easy to forget about, especially if you've been on the same plan for years. Take 15 minutes to log into your account and review how much data, talk time, and other features you actually use each month. You may discover you're paying for far more than you need.
Many providers regularly introduce new plans that offer more value for less money, but existing customers don't always get switched automatically. It's also worth calling your provider to ask about current promotions, loyalty discounts, or lower-priced plans that may be available.
If you're comfortable shopping around, compare offers from other carriers as well. Even saving $10 to $20 per month can add up to hundreds of dollars each year, making this one of the easiest ways to cut household expenses without changing your daily routine.
Negotiate a Lower Credit Card Interest Rate
If you carry a credit card balance, a quick phone call could save you money every month. Many credit card companies are willing to lower your interest rate, especially if you've consistently made your payments on time.
Explain that you're reviewing your finances and ask whether they can offer a lower rate. If necessary, mention that you're considering transferring your balance to another provider. Even a small reduction in your interest rate can make a noticeable difference over time.
Review Your Internet and Streaming Services
Internet, cable, and streaming services are some of the easiest monthly expenses to reduce. Contact your provider and ask whether there are any current promotions, loyalty discounts, or lower-priced plans available.
If you're paying for multiple streaming services, consider cancelling the ones you rarely use or rotating subscriptions throughout the year. Reviewing these recurring charges is one of the simplest ways to reduce monthly bills without making a major lifestyle change.
Meal Plan Every Week
Meal planning is one of the most effective ways to cut household expenses. Taking just 15 minutes each week to plan your meals and create a grocery list helps reduce impulse purchases, minimizes food waste, and makes it much easier to avoid expensive takeout.
Before heading to the store, check what you already have in your pantry, fridge, and freezer so you can build meals around ingredients you already own.
Use Up Pantry and Freezer Food
Before heading to the grocery store, take a few minutes to look through your pantry, fridge, and freezer. Chances are you already have enough ingredients to make several meals without buying much at all. Building your meal plan around foods you already own is one of the simplest ways to cut household expenses and reduce food waste.
Challenge yourself to have a "shop your own kitchen first" week, where you create meals using forgotten pantry staples, frozen vegetables, leftover meat, or canned goods. You may be surprised by how many delicious meals you can make without a full grocery trip.
Not only will this help lower your grocery bill, but it also prevents perfectly good food from expiring and ending up in the garbage. Making a habit of using what you already have before restocking is an easy money-saving strategy that can make a noticeable difference in your monthly food budget.
Make a List of Free Local Activities
Entertainment doesn't have to be expensive. Spend a few minutes creating a list of free activities in your community. Ask friends for recommendations, browse local Facebook groups, or check your city's events calendar.
Parks, hiking trails, splash pads, community festivals, farmers' markets, museums, and library events often provide hours of entertainment at little or no cost. Having a ready-made list makes it easier to choose affordable outings when you're looking for something fun to do.
Make the Most of Your Library Card
Your library card is one of the best free money-saving tools you can have. Today's libraries offer so much more than shelves of books. Many provide free access to eBooks, audiobooks, magazines, movies, music, children's programs, workshops, online learning, and more.
Instead of buying books, paying for magazine subscriptions, or renting movies, see what your local library has available first. Making regular use of your library is an easy way to cut household expenses while still enjoying plenty of entertainment and learning opportunities for the whole family.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to cut household expenses doesn't require a complete lifestyle overhaul. In fact, many of the best money-saving habits take just a few minutes to put into action.
Whether you're lowering your utility bills, meal planning, reviewing monthly subscriptions, or borrowing books instead of buying them, these simple changes can add up to significant savings over time. Start with one or two tips today, then build from there. Every dollar you save helps create more breathing room in your budget.
What's your favourite way to reduce household expenses? Share your best money-saving tip in the comments below. I always love discovering new ideas from readers!
25 Creative Uses for Coffee Filters Around the House
Most people think coffee filters only belong in the coffee maker, but these inexpensive household staples are surprisingly versatile. If you're looking for frugal living hacks, you'll love these creative uses for coffee filters. Best of all, you can pick up a large package at your local dollar store for just a few dollars!
1. Cover Food in the Microwave
Use a coffee filter as a splatter guard when heating food in the microwave. It helps keep your microwave clean without the need for plastic wrap.
2. Clean Windows and Mirrors
Because coffee filters are lint-free, they're perfect for cleaning windows, mirrors, and chrome surfaces without leaving streaks behind.
3. Protect Fine China
Place a coffee filter between dishes when storing fine china to help prevent scratches and chips.
4. Remove Broken Cork from Wine
If a cork crumbles into your wine bottle, simply pour the wine through a coffee filter to catch the pieces.
5. Prevent Rust in Cast-Iron Pans
Place a coffee filter inside your cast-iron skillet before storing it. It absorbs moisture and helps prevent rust.
6. Apply Shoe Polish
A balled-up coffee filter works well for applying and buffing shoe polish.
7. Reuse Frying Oil
Strain used cooking oil through a coffee filter to remove food particles before storing it for future use.
8. Weigh Chopped Ingredients
Place chopped vegetables, fruit, or herbs in a coffee filter when weighing ingredients on a kitchen scale.
9. Hold Tacos and Other Messy Foods
Coffee filters make handy holders for tacos, sandwiches, and other foods that tend to drip or crumble.
10. Keep Soil in Plant Pots
Line the bottom of flower pots with a coffee filter to prevent soil from escaping through drainage holes.
11. Catch Popsicle Drips
Poke a hole through the center of a coffee filter and slide it onto a Popsicle stick to catch sticky drips.
12. DIY Waxing Strips
In a pinch, coffee filters can be used as an alternative to waxing strips for small areas.
13. Absorb Grease from Fried Foods
Place fried foods like bacon, French fries, or chicken fingers on coffee filters to soak up excess grease.
14. Stop Razor Nicks from Bleeding
A small piece of coffee filter can help stop minor shaving cuts from bleeding.
15. Use as Sewing Backing
Coffee filters work well as temporary backing when embroidering or appliquéing delicate fabrics.
16. Freshen Shoes and Closets
Fill a coffee filter with baking soda, tie it closed, and place it in shoes or closets to help absorb odors.
17. Strain Soup Stock
Use coffee filters to strain homemade stock or bundle herbs for soups and stews.
18. Create a Spill-Free Funnel
Place a coffee filter inside a funnel when adding fluids to your vehicle to help catch debris and reduce spills.
19. Use as a Spoon Rest
Set cooking utensils on a coffee filter while preparing meals, then simply throw it away when finished.
20. Hold Baking Ingredients
Use coffee filters to hold pre-measured baking ingredients, chopped vegetables, or fruit while cooking.
21. Protect Christmas Ornaments
Wrap delicate ornaments in coffee filters before storing them away for the season.
22. Remove Nail Polish
Out of cotton balls? Coffee filters work surprisingly well for removing nail polish.
23. Sprout Seeds
Dampen a coffee filter, place seeds inside, fold it up, and seal it in a plastic bag until the seeds begin to sprout.
24. Press Flowers
Use coffee filters as blotting paper when pressing flowers. Place flowers between two filters and weigh them down with a heavy book.
25. Make Disposable Snack Bowls
Coffee filters are perfect for serving popcorn, chips, crackers, and other snacks at parties or movie nights. Or you could even use them to line these food baskets!
And of course, coffee filters still make great coffee! But as you can see, there are plenty of creative uses for coffee filters beyond your morning brew. From cleaning and organizing to gardening and cooking, this inexpensive item can be used in countless practical ways around the house while helping you save money at the same time.
The following is an article by Mr.CBB who is the voice behind Canadian Budget Binder a blog about Personal Finance, Relationships, Recipes, the famous Grocery Game Challenge and more. Join him on Facebook, x.com and Pinterest.
How to start a budget
When we first started to use a budget we really didn’t want to commit to such a boring task. Like many, we were used to tracking expenses in our head and checking in on the bank account to see how much money we had left. Looking back it was probably the worst thing we did for our personal finances and I can’t believe we did that.
Budgeting can be overwhelming at first but it doesn’t have to be if you plan it out correctly. No matter what your situation or money mistakes are, or were, a budget is necessary. I typically equate this to a business that has a yearly budget so they know what they can and can’t do with the company money. How is a company supposed to sustain themselves if they have no budget? That’s right; they probably would go bankrupt or close shop. Your household budget is just as important as a business.
One of the first things I did when I started to blog at Canadian Budget Binder was put together a 10 step budgeting series. Many people wanted to know how we were saving so much money. It’s not really about how much money we were saving. It's really about how we got to the point where we were actually saving money.
The easy answer was: with a budget.
That’s what I’m going to show you today. The steps we took to get from Step 1 to Step 9 and eventually to complete debt freedom. We own our vehicles, have no consumer debt and will be paying our mortgage in full this year. All of this and still over 30 years until retirement (of course we may plan to retire early).
The magic happened just from paying attention to our personal finances and spending less than we earn. It also helped that growing up we were savers. But the bulk of our money came just in the past 10 years. Not everyone wants to lead a frugal life, but it has it’s pros and cons and for us, well worth it.
The first step with budgeting
One of the first steps I talk about in my budgeting series is simply “gathering all the information”. You can’t sit in front of an empty budget spreadsheet with no numbers. You need to get all the numbers from your bank accounts, credit cards, lines of credits, bills, whoever you owe, how much you owe, interest rates, due dates, etc. It’s like getting ready to bake a cake. If you don’t have all the ingredients for your recipe how will your cake grow? It won’t. It will sink because all the ingredients (in this case the numbers) are not available.
What is Net and Gross Income?
Net Income in simple terms, is the amount of money that you get after all your taxes are paid. So for those that get direct deposit from your employer that is your net. If you are self employed or no taxes are taken off that is NOT your Net Income, that is your Gross Income.
You can read in more detail each step of our budget and why we did what we did. The budget spreadsheet I designed for our family changed numerous times over the course of the year. A budget will always change and so should yours. You should never just set it and forget it.
There are a myriad of free budget spreadsheets and free budget programs to track expenses on the internet if you do a Google search. If you want to have a budget binder so you can manually track your budget and expenses, then do it. As long as you know exactly what is going in and what is going out.
Some people chose to use a cash system and put it in envelopes or jars. If that’s what it will take to motivate you to start budgeting, then do it. You will see over time how easy it becomes and you will continue to challenge yourself further each month. We no longer carry cash we use credit cards for rewards. I don’t recommend this unless you are at a stage where you can pay your credit card in full every month.
9 Steps for Creating a Budget
Step 1 - Gather all the information - As mentioned above, the first step in designing a budget is to gather all the information. You will need to get all the numbers from your bank accounts, credit cards, lines of credits, bills, whoever you owe, how much you owe, interest rates, due dates, etc.
Step 2 - Categories - Every person/family is different so you need to decide what categories will suit your budget. You may need daycare while another family does not, for example.
Step 3 - Tracking Receipts - This is so important and I can’t stress that enough if you want to know where you are spending your hard earned dollars. Have a plan in place so you save your receipts and input them into your tracking spreadsheet.
Step 4 - Note Taking - Always make notes so you can backtrack information. Know where the purchase was made, how you paid for it, dates, etc.
Step 5 - Organization - Keep organized and keep your workstation free from distractions.
Step 6 - Who Does What and When - If you are in a relationship, budgeting doesn’t have to be a one person job. In fact my wife and I both share the budget duties as a team. If in the event something should happen to one of us, we both need to know what is happening with our personal finances. Don’t put the burden on one person.
Step 7 - Balancing Our Budget - Your budget has to balance each month. If you can’t balance your budget you have to do one of 2 things: Make more money or spend less than you earn.
Step 8 - Reading Our Bills - I can’t tell you enough to make sure you always read your bills and receipts when you are shopping. There have been times when I found errors on my communications bill where they charged us for services we did not get. You may also notice the wrong price on your grocery bill. This could result in a scanning code of practice where you get the item free up to $10, if the store participates. Most importantly, you catch an error where you were paying more than you should have. So many people get burned by not reading.
Step 9 - Projected Expenses - This is a big category for us. We save close to $15k a year in it. What is it? In short, it’s an account where we keep money for items that we know we will have to pay for at some point during the year that our regular budget won’t be able to handle. We were always taking money from our emergency savings for these items which was wrong. A sticker for our vehicle once a year is not an emergency but should be saved all year long so the money is ready to be used when it comes due. We save $7.50 a month in a separate account for 12 months to pay for the sticker. $90/12 months. This has been the biggest stress reliever for us and one of the biggest reasons people fall off their budget. If you don’t factor in the small stuff, you may not have the money to pay for it. You should budget it in and save it.
Another thing that can really help when you're overwhelmed or paralyzed by the thought of budgeting? Create a plan to stay focused! Check out this thoughtfully made BUDGET PLANNER – pages to help you achieve financial goals, track your bills and spending, discover what you did well, what you need to improve on and so much more!
I encourage you to take a deep breath if you are wanting to budget but are feeling stuck in getting started. Start living instead of existing and take back control of your personal finances. A budget is just one step in the process in working towards debt freedom, but one that may allow you the opportunity to drop that debt and get back in the game. Time to look at a budget as part of a lifestyle rather than a chore.
Mr.CBB is the voice behind Canadian Budget Binder a blog about Personal Finance, Relationships, Recipes, the famous Grocery Game Challenge and more. Join him on Facebook, x.com and Pinterest.
Looking for simple money saving tips that actually work? The good news is that saving money doesn't have to mean giving up everything you enjoy or making drastic changes to your lifestyle. In fact, some of the most effective ways to save money are also the easiest to implement.
Many people assume that building savings requires a higher income, an extreme budget, or a complete financial makeover. While those things can certainly help, the truth is that small daily habits often have the biggest impact over time. A few dollars saved here and there may not seem like much in the moment, but those savings can quickly add up over weeks, months, and years.
The best simple money saving tips are the ones that fit naturally into your everyday routine. Whether it's reducing household expenses, cutting down on grocery costs, avoiding impulse purchases, or finding creative ways to reuse items you already own, there are countless opportunities to save money without feeling deprived.
If you're trying to stretch your budget, pay off debt, build an emergency fund, or simply become more intentional with your spending, these simple money saving tips can help you keep more of your hard-earned money. The key is consistency. You don't have to do everything on this list. Start with a few ideas that work for your lifestyle and build from there.
Ready to save more and spend less? Here are some of the best simple money saving tips anyone can start using today.
Everyday Simple Money Saving Tips
Swap paper products for reusable cloths. Replace paper towels and napkins with washable alternatives to cut ongoing household costs.
Make your own cleaning supplies. Basic ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and lemon can replace multiple store-bought cleaners.
Use your local library. Borrow books, audiobooks, movies, and even digital content for free instead of buying or subscribing.
Borrow and share with others. Trade books, tools, kitchen items, or even kids’ toys with friends and family.
Hang dry your laundry. Air drying reduces electricity use and helps clothes last longer.
Lower your heating and cooling costs. Adjust your thermostat a few degrees when sleeping or away from home.
Reuse what you already have. Plastic grocery bags can become small garbage liners, and many storage bags can be reused safely (except those used for raw meat).
Food & Grocery Simple Money Saving Tips
Plan your meals weekly.Meal planning helps reduce impulse buys and food waste.
Make a grocery list and stick to it. This is one of the most effective simple money saving tips for avoiding overspending.
Shop clearance and discounted items first. Especially for clothing and pantry staples.
Cook at home more often. Even a few extra home-cooked meals per week can significantly reduce expenses.
Make your own baby food. If you’re already cooking vegetables, set some aside to mash or puree.
Use leftovers intentionally. Plan “leftover nights” to stretch meals further.
Buy in bulk when it makes sense. Staples like rice, oats, and pasta are often cheaper in larger quantities.
Compare unit pricing. Don’t just look at the sticker price—check the cost per gram or litre.
Budget-Friendly Lifestyle Habits
Think before you buy. Use a “24-hour rule” for non-essential purchases to avoid impulse spending.
Have a No Spend Challenge. Challenging yourself to a no spend day, week or even month can be a real eye opener to your spending habits.
Track your spending. Even a simple notes app can help you see where your money goes.
Cancel unused subscriptions. Streaming, apps, and memberships add up quickly.
Use cashback and rewards programs. Get a little money back on everyday purchases.
Buy secondhand when possible. Thrift stores, online marketplaces, and garage sales can offer huge savings.
Repair instead of replacing. Fix clothing, electronics, and furniture when it’s cost-effective.
Transportation & Energy Savings
Walk, bike, or carpool when you can. Reducing fuel use is one of the easiest simple money saving tips for long-term savings.
Combine errands into one trip. This saves both gas and time.
Reduce hot water usage. Shorter showers and cold water washes help lower utility bills.
Switch to energy-efficient habits. Turn off lights, unplug devices, and use power strips to reduce phantom energy use.
Final Thought
The best simple money saving tips are the ones you can actually stick with. You don’t need to do everything at once. Even choosing a few habits from this list can start making a difference in your monthly budget.
Small steps. Consistent habits. Real savings.
What are your favorite ways to save money without much effort? I’d love to hear your ideas!
This was such a big hit in past years, that I took the time to update it with this year's dates! Hope you enjoy 🙂
Are you living in the Okanagan or planning a visit there this summer? Since the Okanagan is the place I’m lucky enough to call home, I wanted to put together a guide packed with fun and affordable things to do all summer long in the land of sunshine. My goal is to make this the ultimate frugal Okanagan summer activity guide! If you know of a great event, hidden gem, or must-visit spot, let me know and I’d love to add it to the list.
Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or you’re lucky enough to call this region home, I hope this Okanagan Summer Activity Guide helps you make the most of every moment. From lake days to orchard visits to local markets to scenic hikes, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy all summer long. Save this Okanagan summer activity guide for later and start ticking off your favourite experiences as you go. Summer in the Okanagan always goes by faster than we think.
Looking for deals?
Grouponhas a ton of local discounted restaurants, spas, things to do and more! Check it out for great savings on the things you want to do in the Okanagan.
