Category: Everyday Cheapskate

6 Generics That Are Truly a Great Buy

What do you associate with the word “generic?” Do the words “inferior” or “tastes like cardboard” come to mind? Or do you, like many people, associate name brands with people who are well-to-do, while people in poverty opt for generics? All of that is complete nonsense, but commonly held attitudes. The truth is that generics…


Surprising Other Uses for Automatic Dishwasher Detergent

It’s no secret that dishwasher detergent is specifically formulated to be used in automatic dishwashers whether it comes as powder, pods, pacs, liquid, or gel. What may come as a big surprise is that these products’ grease and dirt-busting abilities can be used outside the dishwasher in many useful ways. Case in point: My microfiber…


Highly Effective Ways to Chop the Soaring Cost of Groceries

Perhaps you’ve noticed the cost of nearly everything is going up. The Bureau of Labor Statistics Consumer Price Index, the agency that calculates the U.S. inflation rate, is predicting a very high inflation rate for 2021. Our annual inflation rate at the end of May was running at 5 percent. That is the highest rate…


Medicare and Health Savings Accounts; Closing Credit-Card Accounts

Dear Mary: I’m a few months from my Medicare birthday, when I’ll turn 65. I have had a high-deductible health savings account qualified insurance plan for more than 10 years. The health savings account has a decent balance of nearly $15,000 because I’ve enjoyed good health and few medical expenses. My question: Can I keep…


Practical Tips for DIY Home Maintenance and Repair

Maintenance costs can put a serious dent in your budget and savings—a dent that’s tough to repair. While there are certain things you definitely need an expert to handle, there are plenty of other situations in which you can make minor but meaningful repairs without calling for professional support—while saving serious cash. From closet rods…


When Showing up Is the Hardest Part

Not that long ago, I underwent that procedure no one my age likes to talk about. Doing all the necessary prep to get ready for the exam was bad enough. Then, I wanted to cut and run when I saw those words on the office door: certified financial planner. But we did it. My husband…


Quick and Easy Outdoor Cleaning and Storage Tips

Many outdoor cleaning and storage solutions can be rather expensive, especially when compared with Everyday Cheapskate do-it-yourself or homemade alternatives. Here are some of my favorite cleaning tips and storage solutions for the garage and patio that will give you the results you need without the costs you don’t. Grill Cover Protect your grill without…


How to Liquify Crystallized Honey and the Best Way to Store It

It’s discouraging when you reach for the honey, only to discover it is no longer a smooth liquid, but all grainy—like sugar. You may have even tossed it into the trash assuming that it’s gone bad, no longer edible. Truth be told, it is still perfectly delicious and nutritious. It’s easy to turn crystallized honey…


How to Clean and Restore Carpet Even If It’s Old, Stained, and Disgusting

If you hate your carpet because it’s old, stained, and bordering on disgusting, I have great news. There are steps you can take that will have you falling in love with it all over again. Years ago, when we remodeled our home, we replaced some of the carpets with hardwood. What a revelation. I could…


How to Make the High Cost of Ground Beef Easier to Swallow

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ latest official data says in April 2021, the average price of a pound of lean ground beef climbed to a whopping $5.97 per pound. It’s no secret that in the past year, we’ve seen all kinds of economic turmoil sending us into a season of inflation, when the price…