15 Money Saving Home Hacks

Saving money doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort—sometimes, the smartest solutions are the simplest. These home hacks will help you cut costs while making your home feel more cozy, organized, and efficient. From money saving home hacks that lower energy bills to cozy home hacks that create a warm, inviting space on a budget, these ideas blend practicality with charm.

Whether you’re looking for smart home hacks to maximize storage or money saving ideas that make everyday living more affordable, small changes can lead to big savings. Some of these hacks will help hide clutter and make your home feel more put together, while others will stretch your dollar without sacrificing style. The best part? You don’t need a massive budget to create a home that feels both functional and welcoming.

15 home hacks that will help you save money

1. Repurpose Containers and Glass Jars

One of the easiest money saving ideas is to repurpose glass jars instead of tossing them in the recycling bin. Whether it’s a pasta sauce jar or a baby food container, these everyday items can be transformed into stylish and functional storage solutions. Not only does this reduce waste, but it also adds a charming, budget-friendly touch to your home.

They’re incredibly versatile and the uses are limitless! Here are some ideas:

• Store dry goods like pasta, rice, coffee beans, or spices.
• Keep cotton balls, Q-tips, or homemade sugar scrubs neatly organized.
• Sort and store buttons, beads, or small sewing supplies.
• Create DIY candles to gift or add cozy ambiance to your space.

In just a few minutes, try getting a little creative with this smart home hack by upgrading your jars with decorative labels, fabric covers, or a coat of spray paint on the lids.

2. Turn Old Sweaters into Cozy Throw Pillow Covers

Looking for a budget-friendly home improvement idea that also enhances your cozy home decor? Repurpose old chunky sweaters into soft, textured throw pillow covers. Whether you’re upcycling worn-out favorites or snagging thrift store finds, this hack is an affordable way to add warmth and personality to your space. Plus, it’s a sustainable way to repurpose old clothing while reducing clutter. A simple DIY that’s stylish, functional, and eco-friendly!

How to Make It:

1. Turn the sweater inside out, lay it flat, and cut out a square or rectangle to match your pillow insert.
2. Sew the edges together, leaving one side open. Then, flip it right-side out.
3. Slide in the pillow insert and hand-stitch the final edge for a snug fit.

3. Use Binder Clips to Organize Cables and Chargers

One of the simplest home hacks for decluttering is using binder clips to manage your cables and chargers. These handy clips help keep cords neatly bundled, preventing them from tangling and cluttering up your workspace or living area. Simply attach the clips to the edge of your desk or table, and thread the cables through the clips for an organized, clutter-free look. Not only does this save you time when searching for chargers, but it’s also a budget-friendly solution to keeping your home tidy and functional.

4. Upgrade Your Lampshade with Fabric or Paint

Lampshades are often overlooked in home decor, but with a few simple upgrades, they can completely transform the look of a room without breaking the bank. Using chalk or acrylic paint to refresh a plain or outdated lampshade is an affordable way to add personality to your space. If DIY isn’t your thing, consider visiting your local thrift store for unique, budget-friendly lampshades. You might discover a hidden gem that adds charm and character to your home, all while keeping your decor fresh and cozy.

5. DIY Floating Shelves for Extra Storage

Floating shelves are both functional and stylish, offering space for decor, books, and cherished trinkets. And the best part? You can create your own for a fraction of the cost of store-bought options. With a few basic materials like wood, brackets, screws, and paint, you can easily design shelves that fit your space and style perfectly. This DIY home hack not only saves money but also adds a personalized touch to your home and opens up space. Whether you’re looking to organize or simply add visual interest to a room, floating shelves are a budget-friendly solution that makes a big impact.

What You’ll Need:

• Wooden boards (cut to your desired size)
• L-brackets
• Screws and anchors
• Paint or stain (optional)

Instructions:

• Paint or stain the wooden boards for a finished look.
• Mark the wall locations for the anchors, ensuring they are level. Attach the L-brackets to the wall using screws and anchors.
• Secure the shelves: Place the wooden boards on top of the brackets and secure them firmly in place.

Tip: For a rustic and cozy aesthetic, consider using reclaimed wood for your shelves.

6. Create a Relaxing Bath Tray from Scrap Wood

A warm bath is the ultimate cozy self-care moment, and adding a bath tray can make it even better. One of the best home hacks is creating your own bath tray using scrap wood, which you can often find at a low cost or even for free from places like Home Depot or online pallet listings.

Start by measuring the width of your bathtub and cutting a wooden board slightly longer. Sand the edges to smooth them out, then stain and seal the wood to protect it. If desired, add rubber feet to the bottom corners, so they sit outside of the tub, to keep the tray from sliding off.

This simple, DIY bath tray is not only affordable but also customizable, making it one of my favorite home hacks for a cozy bathroom upgrade.

7. Make a Homemade Draft Stopper to Save on Energy Costs

Drafty windows and doors can increase your heating bill, but a simple DIY draft stopper is a smart home hack that can save you money. It’s easy to make and can significantly improve your home’s energy efficiency.

To start, you’ll need fabric, rice, beans, or sand for filling, and a sewing machine or needle and thread. Measure the width of your door or window, adding an extra inch for seam allowances. Cut the fabric to the desired length (about 8 inches wide).

Fold the fabric lengthwise with the design facing in, and sew the edges together, leaving one end open. Double-stitching is optional but recommended for durability. Fill the tube with enough rice, beans, or sand to make it firm yet flexible, and sew the open end shut.

This is one of the simplest and smart home hacks to keep your home warm and save on energy costs.

8. Add Mirrors to Open Up Small Spaces

Mirrors are one of the best home hacks to brighten and open up small spaces. It’s much more affordable than knocking down walls. When placed across from doorways, they reflect light and create the illusion of more space.

While mirrors can sometimes be expensive, you can find affordable options at stores like TJ Maxx, Ross, and Ikea, or even on Amazon. Thrift stores often offer great deals as well. Whether you’re in a cozy home or a larger space, mirrors are a perfect addition to enhance any room. They’re especially helpful in smaller spaces where maximizing light and openness is key.

9. Use Tension Rods for Hidden Storage Solutions

Tension rods are a simple yet effective solution for creating extra storage in tight spaces. I love affordable home hacks like this which require no tools, making them easy to install and use.

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Under the Sink: Hang spray bottles and cleaning supplies effortlessly.
• In Closets: Utilize rods to neatly organize scarves, belts, or even shoes.
• In Cabinets: Create efficient dividers for cutting boards or baking trays.

10. Indoor Herb Garden

Fresh herbs not only enhance the flavor of your meals but also bring a touch of nature and coziness to your home. Instead of making frequent trips to the grocery store for basil, thyme, or oregano, you can simply reach over and snip some from your own indoor herb garden.

Growing your own herbs offers numerous benefits:

• Adds delicious flavor to your meals.
• Saves you money and grocery store trips.
• Brings the beauty of nature indoors.

While starting from seed can have a slightly steeper learning curve, you can easily begin with established plants from your local nursery. Choose herbs you use often and transplant them into charming pots from your favorite thrift store.

11. Turn Shoe Organizers into Vertical Storage

Hanging shoe organizers aren’t just for shoes – they’re a fantastic space and money saving solution for many areas around your home. I personally use mine to store art supplies and does a fantastic job reducing clutter and opening up space in my studio. If you live in a smaller space, a hanging shoe organizer is definitely worth considering!

12. Make Custom Wall Art with Thrift Store Finds or Printables

Wall art can be expensive, but there are simple home hacks to keep costs low. Many of my frames are from thrift stores or yard sales, requiring only a quick clean, light sanding, and a fresh coat of spray paint to refresh them.

For the art, try painting your own or downloading printable designs from Etsy. You can have them professionally printed and framed online. Alternatively, skip the print and use dried flowers, book pages, or fabric behind the glass for a unique, budget-friendly display. Stick to neutral or warm tones for a cozy, cohesive look.

13. Use Baskets for Hidden Storage

Baskets are a fantastic way to tame clutter while simultaneously enhancing your home’s style and adding a touch of texture. I utilize two matching baskets beneath my fireplace. One neatly stores my small dog’s cozy hoodies and jackets, while the other holds her playful assortment of toys – you’d never guess!

I also employ a basket strategically placed under a glass shelf in my bathroom. This discreetly houses a generous supply of toilet paper while introducing a cozy element to the room’s aesthetic.

14. Use Leftover Paint for Accent Walls or Furniture

It’s surprising how a coat or two of paint can dramatically alter the energy of a room, even with a subtle color change. To give your walls or furniture a fresh look use leftover paint you may have from a previous project or visit your local paint shop and drop by the ‘oopsie’ section where you’ll find paint at discounted prices.

This budget friendly home improvement project will definitely breathe fresh new life into your room or furniture.

15. DIY Cloth Napkins

Ditch paper napkins and towels! This smart money-saving idea helps cut costs effortlessly. Even a modest $10 monthly expense adds up to $120 a year—money that’s better spent on groceries, gas, or other essentials. I’ve skipped them for years and haven’t looked back! Make a small investment and purchase a set of cloth napkins and paper towels, or sew your own.

how to make Cloth Napkins and Towels:

• Decide on the size of your napkins and add ½ inch to your measurements for seam allowance.
• Fold your fabric in half with the design facing inward. Use your measurements to cut out the desired number of napkins.
• Sew around the perimeter of each napkin, leaving a 2-inch gap.
• Turn the napkin right side out through the gap and then sew the gap closed.
• Iron the edges to create a crisp finish. For added durability, consider sewing a straight stitch close to the edge of each napkin.

If sewing isn’t for you, make a smal investment in high quality linen napkins that will last.

Saving money at home doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort—it’s about making smart choices that create a warm, inviting space without overspending. These 15 budget-friendly home hacks are just the beginning! With a little creativity and intention, you can continue finding simple ways to enhance your home while keeping costs low. Enjoy the process of turning your space into a cozy, beautiful haven, one small change at a time.

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