By: Natasha Archary
In these tough economic times, cutting down on costs is something every South African is forced to do. With the focus on basic necessities, budgeting and penny pinching is a priority.
Call it frugal living or just surviving these hard times, many are holding back on spending money unnecessarily. The cost of petrol, a night out and even retail therapy, have become luxuries many can no longer afford.
Feel Good listeners share some of the ways to cut costs with Andy Maqondwana.
- Do your washing in big loads
With loadshedding crippling not just the economy but your daily routines, washing your laundry or dishes in big loads can reduce your electricity and water bills. Whether you’re using a dishwasher or hot water from the geyser, let your laundry or dirty dishes pile up before getting them done.
You can soak your dishes in the sink in some dishwashing liquid, if you can’t leave them standing dirty in your kitchen.
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Wash your car yourself
Save some cash by washing your car yourself, instead of spending hundreds at a car wash. If you wash your car once a week, you can save up to R600 a month.
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Shop smart
When it comes to grocery shopping, compare prices and don’t just buy everything from one store. Check online to see which stores have the products you’re looking for at a cheaper price.
Only buy what you need and be careful of specials that will have you spending more money on bulk deals. With groceries store brands are often the exact same as original brands and are cheaper. Remember, eggs are eggs regardless of packaging.
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Pay credit within the no-interest period
If you’re making a purchase on your credit card because you really don’t have a choice, make sure you pay that off within the 3 or 6-month no-interest period. Interest can end up costing you a lot more and that’s something you can’t afford to fall into.
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Reduce electricity costs
City Power has just increased the electricity tariffs for Gauteng, and if you want to reduce your electricity usage, consider the following:
Use a microwave to warm your food instead of the stove. Microwaves use less energy than conventional ovens and stoves. You can bake a cake, boil eggs and also reheat or defrost food in the microwave.
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Cut back on going out
A night out with friends or family can be costly, even if it’s just a trip to the cinema to catch a movie. Add snacks and drinks, petrol to get there and back and you’re likely to cut into your savings for the month or go over budget.
Streaming a movie at home, may be the cheaper option. Loadshedding permitting of course.
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Make money of the things you no longer need
Sell items of furniture, appliances, old clothes and shoes that you no longer use. Thrift stores will buy items that can either be restored or reused.
Also read: Feel Good: 5 tips to rebuild your emergency savings
