Have you ever looked at your monthly expenses and wondered where all your money is going? It’s easy to lose track between grocery runs, cleaning supplies, beauty products, and the occasional takeout. What if I told you that one of the most effective ways to cut costs is right under your nose? Yep, your home can become a mini factory of savings! In this guide, we’ll dive into 10 practical things to make at home to save money that are perfect for folks living in the USA or the UK.
Quick Answers Before We Dive In:
- Can making things at home save money? Absolutely! With just a few household staples and some creativity, you can slash monthly spending by 30% or more.
- Is it time-consuming? Not really. Many DIY projects take just minutes to prepare but save you hours and dollars in the long run.
- Is this guide beginner-friendly? 100%. Whether you’re a seasoned DIY-er or just getting started, there’s something here for everyone.
Things to Make at Home to Save Money
1. Homemade Cleaning Products
Cleaning supplies are surprisingly expensive and often contain harsh chemicals. The good news is that you can make powerful, eco-friendly alternatives at home.
What You Need:
- White vinegar
- Baking soda
- Essential oils (like tea tree or lavender)
- Lemon juice
- Spray bottles
Why It Saves You Money: Instead of buying multiple cleaners for windows, kitchens, and bathrooms, a simple vinegar and baking soda mix can clean nearly everything. Plus, refills cost pennies.
Bonus Tip for the UK: Use soda crystals and white vinegar for tough grime. It’s a staple trick in British households.
2. DIY Laundry Detergent
Laundry detergent is a recurring cost that adds up fast, especially in large households. Homemade detergent is effective, budget-friendly, and better for sensitive skin.
What You Need:
- Washing soda
- Borax (or baking soda in the UK)
- Grated bar soap (like Castile or Fels-Naptha)
Instructions: Mix equal parts of all three and store in a sealed container. Use 1-2 tablespoons per load.
Estimated Savings: Save up to $100/£80 per year per person.
3. Homemade Bread and Baked Goods
Bread, muffins, and cookies may seem cheap at the store, but making them at home costs significantly less and tastes even better.
Essentials Needed:
- Flour, yeast, water, sugar, salt
- Oven or bread maker
Benefits: You can make a loaf of bread for under $1/£1. In contrast, store-bought loaves can cost $2-$4/£1.50-£2.50.
Tip: Use leftover ingredients for pizza dough, cinnamon rolls, or flatbreads.
4. DIY Personal Care Products
Toiletries and personal care products like face masks, scrubs, and deodorants often have a hefty price tag. Homemade versions are cost-effective and chemical-free.
Easy Recipes:
- Scrub: Sugar + coconut oil + essential oil
- Face Mask: Honey + oats + yogurt
- Deodorant: Coconut oil + baking soda + cornstarch
Read Also: How to Create a Weekly Meal Plan That Saves You £50+
Why It Works: Each item costs just a few cents to make and often lasts weeks. Plus, you control the ingredients.
5. Make Your Snacks
Packaged snacks are convenient but overpriced. Making your own not only saves money but lets you customize ingredients.
Ideas:
- Granola bars
- Popcorn (buy kernels in bulk)
- Trail mix with dried fruits and nuts
- Energy bites (dates, peanut butter, oats)
Pro Tip: UK shoppers can buy in bulk from stores like Holland & Barrett; in the US, Costco or local co-ops are great options.
6. DIY Gifts and Greeting Cards
Whether it’s birthdays, holidays, or thank-you gestures, buying gifts and cards adds up quickly. Handmade gifts feel more personal and cost far less.
Ideas:
- Homemade candles
- Bath bombs
- Knitted scarves
- Framed artwork or prints
- Handwritten cards or calligraphy quotes
Savings Estimate: You can create a meaningful gift for under $5/£4 compared to store-bought ones that cost $20/£15 or more.
7. Grow Your Herbs
If you cook regularly, you know how costly fresh herbs can be. Growing your herbs is cheap, easy, and even possible in small flats.
What You Need:
- Small pots
- Potting soil
- Herb seeds (basil, thyme, rosemary, etc.)
- Sunny windowsill or balcony
Cost Comparison: A pot of fresh herbs at the store may cost $3/£2.50, but you can grow dozens of servings from a $2/£1.50 seed packet.
8. Homemade Baby Food
Parents know how expensive baby food jars can be. Making your own is cheaper, fresher, and free from preservatives.
How-To:
- Steam or boil fruits and veggies (like sweet potatoes, apples, or peas)
- Puree in a blender
- Store in reusable containers or ice cube trays
Savings: Making your baby food can cut costs by 50%-70% monthly.
9. DIY Home Decor
Updating your living space doesn’t have to cost a fortune. You can DIY decorations, wall art, and seasonal decor using affordable materials.
Ideas:
- Pallet wood shelves
- Mason jar lights
- Recycled bottle vases
- Printable wall quotes
Read Also: 25 Effective Ways to Save Money on Groceries Without Coupons
Local Tip: Charity shops in the UK and thrift stores in the US are gold mines for supplies.
10. Make Your Coffee Drinks
Love lattes or iced coffees? You could be spending $3-$5/£2-£4 per cup. Multiply that by 5 days a week, and it’s over $1,000/£800 a year!
DIY Essentials:
- French press or espresso maker
- Milk frother
- Flavored syrups or spices (vanilla, cinnamon, cocoa)
Per Cup Cost: Homemade coffee costs about $0.30/£0.25.
Final Thoughts: The Power of DIY Savings
Living in the USA or the UK, costs can add up quickly. But with a bit of planning and effort, you can transform your home into a hub of smart saving. These 10 things to make at home to save money are not just budget-friendly—they’re empowering.
Let’s Recap:
- Cleaning and personal care items are easy to make with pantry staples.
- Homemade food and snacks are healthier and cheaper.
- DIY gifts, decor, and drinks give your wallet a break and add a personal touch.
You don’t have to do everything at once. Start with one or two, and build from there. Your bank account will thank you!
