10+ Clever Hacks to Reduce Money Waste and Extend Your Stuff Life

Sometimes we can become tired of constantly replacing everyday essentials. From clothes to gadgets, many of our daily items could last much longer with a little extra care. These simple tips will help stretch the life of your belongings and save money in the process.

1. Freeze candles before burning.

Candles burn too fast? Pop them in the freezer for a couple of hours before lighting. The cold wax burns slower, giving you extra hours of cozy ambiance without constantly replacing them. Bonus: your house smells divine for longer.

2. Wash clothes inside out.

Your clothing labels might keep mum, but turning your clothes inside out before washing is a laundry hack you shouldn’t skip! Here’s the scoop: flipping them protects the outer fabric from wear and tear, lets detergent zero in on sweat stains, and cuts down on annoying pilling and thread knots. Plus, it safeguards any decorative details from damage. So, give your garments a flip before washing—they’ll look fresher and last longer!

3. Store razor blades in baby oil.

Dull razor blades don’t have to be a frequent expense. After shaving, dry the blade thoroughly and submerge it in baby oil. This prevents rust and keeps the edge sharp for weeks longer. Smooth skin and extra cash. Win-win!

4. Store bread in the freezer.

While keeping bread in the fridge doesn’t outright harm your loaf, science says refrigeration actually speeds up the staling process faster than if you left it on the counter. So, what’s the secret to longer-lasting bread? Wrap it tightly in plastic or foil, pop it in the freezer—sliced or whole—and when you’re ready, reheat it in the oven for that fresh-from-the-bakery taste.

If reheating isn’t your jam, you can keep it well wrapped at room temperature, but be aware it’ll start losing its mojo after a day or so. Bottom line: for the freshest bread that lasts, the freezer is your best friend!

5. Don’t touch cheese with bare fingers.

Who knew cheese could be such a diva? Handle it with your bare hands—even if they’re freshly washed—and you’re basically fast-tracking mold growth. Instead, wrap your fingers in plastic or slip on some food-safe gloves when dealing with your favorite cheddar or brie.

And don’t forget: a clean cutting board is a must. Any leftover crumbs can invite unwanted mold to crash your cheesy party.

6. Microwave sponge to disinfect it.

Don’t toss your sponge the moment it gets grimy. Soak it in water, then zap it in the microwave for 1–2 minutes. This kills 99% of bacteria, so your sponge lasts longer. Just be sure it’s damp to avoid a fire hazard.

7. Rotate and flip your mattress.

If you want to keep that “brand-new bed” feeling every night, here’s the secret: give your mattress a spin every three months. Just rotate it, so the head becomes the foot—easy-peasy. This simple move helps maintain better support over time, ensures even wear of the fillings, and minimizes those pesky dips and sags.

If you’ve got a double-sided mattress, don’t forget to flip it over during each rotation to keep both sides fresh and comfy!

8. Freeze flour.

White flour can chill in the freezer for up to two years, while whole grain flour stays good for about one year. Plus, freezing zaps any pesky pests that might be lurking. If freezer space is tight, the fridge is your next best friend—white flour lasts up to one year there, and whole grain flour keeps for about six months.

9. Add a few grains of rice to salt.

Fed up with your salt shaker turning into a salty clump? Try tossing in a couple of uncooked rice grains at the bottom before filling it with salt. The rice acts like a mini moisture magnet, soaking up water vapor faster than the salt can.

The result? Your salt stays loose and flows freely—no more banging the shaker to get it out!

10. Use pantyhose to extend soap life.

Soap bars melting away too quickly? Cut a small piece of old pantyhose, pop the soap inside, and tie it up. The mesh reduces wastage and lets you use every last sliver of the bar while providing gentle exfoliation.

11. Oil wooden cutting boards.

To prevent drying out—which can cause warping and cracks—make sure to oil your cutting boards at least once a month. Here’s a simple way to do it:

• Sprinkle coarse salt over the board and scrub it with half a lemon. Wipe it down and let it air dry completely.
• Using a clean, soft cloth or paper towel, apply a thin, even layer of mineral oil all over the wood surface.
• Allow the oil to penetrate the wood for 2 to 8 hours.
• Use a dry cloth or paper towel to remove any leftover oil, so the board doesn’t feel damp or sticky.

12. Minimize the use of fabric softeners.

Some fabrics absolutely hate softeners. Like, NEVER EVER let it touch them! For example, using a softener on your jeans can leave a residue that ruins their vibe. Other items to keep away from softeners are athletic or performance wear, microfiber cloths, towels, children’s sleepwear, swimwear, and lingerie.

13. Store onion and garlic correctly.

Ditch sealed plastic to keep onions and garlic fresh and flavorful. It speeds up spoilage. Instead, store them in a cool, dark spot with plenty of airflow—think paper bags or baskets. Done right, they’ll stay good for up to six months!

14. Polish shoes with a banana peel.

Scuffed leather shoes? Rub the inside of a banana peel on them, then buff with a soft cloth. The natural oils in the peel restore shine while saving you from pricey shoe polish. Plus, it’s eco-friendly.

Household tips can be simple but make a big difference. And don’t forget to declutter a little each day — small steps and clever tips will help you to keep your home feeling fresh and organized.