Are you looking for ways to save some cash on your homestead? Well, you’re in luck because we’ve got some frugal ideas for you to try! As a homesteader, I know how hard it can be to balance your budget.
Sometimes, you are overwhelmed with the homestead’s to-do list and need to run through a list. That’s why I’ve gathered a list of 25 frugal homesteading ideas to help you save money while still living the homestead life.
Start composting
Composting is a great way to reduce waste and create nutrient-rich soil for your garden. To create compost, you can use food scraps, leaves, and other yard waste. To learn more about composting, read this.
Grow your own food
Growing your own food is cost-effective and a fun and rewarding experience. You can grow fruits, vegetables, and herbs in your garden or windowsill. You don’t have to have much space to garden; container gardening works just as well.
Use natural pest control
Instead of using expensive pesticides, use natural alternatives such as diatomaceous earth, neem oil, or even handpicking pests.
Bartering
Remember the old saying, one man’s trash is another man’s treasure? In the homesteading world, it’s more like one man’s excess zucchini is another man’s jar of honey.
Don’t be afraid to trade with your neighbors!
Reuse and repurpose
Before buying new items for your homestead, try to repurpose or reuse items you already have on hand. For example, glass jars can be used as storage containers and old clothes can be turned into rags. We buy all those plastic containers with food in them and reuse them.
Want to keep your homesteading journey organized? Grab my adorable homesteading planner here.
DIY Greenhouse
Think greenhouses are pricey? Think again! With a few old windows or sheets of plastic, you can create a small greenhouse perfect for starting seeds early in the season.
Shop secondhand
You can find great homesteading equipment and tools deals by shopping at thrift stores or online secondhand marketplaces.
You can find so many treasures thrifting that go beyond things you need outside your homestead.
Make your own soap
Soapmaking is a fun and cost-effective way to create natural soap for yourself and your family. You can also sell your homemade soap to make some extra cash.
Chicken Tractor
If you’ve got chickens, consider building a chicken tractor. It’s a mobile home for your hens, allowing them to graze on fresh grass while fertilizing your yard. Talk about a win-win
Repurpose Old Pallets for Frugal Homesteading
Pallets are a homesteader’s best friend. They can be used to build chicken coops, compost bins, raised garden beds, and more. Just make sure they’re safe for use (not chemically treated).
Sourdough Starter
Forget about buying bread. With flour, water, and a bit of patience, you can create a sourdough starter that’ll keep you in fresh-baked bread for years.
Use rainwater harvesting
Collecting rainwater is a great way to reduce your water bill and provide your plants with a natural water source.
Can and preserve food
Preserving your own food is a great way to save money and ensure nutritious food is available year-round. Learn how to get started with canning here.
For the canning enthusiast, check out this adorable canning planner.
Use homemade cleaning products
You can save money and reduce the number of chemicals in your home by making your own cleaning products using natural ingredients like vinegar and baking soda.
Use natural lighting
Instead of relying on artificial lighting, try to maximize natural lighting in your home by using skylights or installing larger windows.
Use cloth napkins and towels
Using reusable cloth napkins and towels is cost-effective and better for the environment than using disposable alternatives.
Use a clothesline
Drying your clothes on a clothesline instead of using a dryer can save you money and conserve energy.
Use a wood stove
Heating your home with a wood stove can save you money on your heating bill and create a cozy atmosphere.
Homemade Herbal Remedies
Next time you cough or have a scratchy throat, skip the drugstore and head to your garden instead. Many common herbs, like mint, chamomile, and thyme, have medicinal properties and can make soothing teas, tinctures, and salves.
Check out my favorite homemade chest cold rub!
Make your own DIY projects
Instead of buying expensive furniture or decor, try making your own DIY projects using materials you already have at home.
Use natural fertilizers
Instead of buying chemical fertilizers, use natural alternatives like compost or manure to fertilize your garden.
Use a pressure canner
A pressure canner is an excellent tool for canning food safely and efficiently. It can also save you money in the long run by allowing you to preserve food at home.
Use a water-saving toilet
Installing a water-saving toilet can reduce your water bill and help conserve water.
Use a programmable thermostat
Installing a programmable thermostat can help you save money on your heating and cooling bills by automatically adjusting the temperature when you’re not home.
Foraging
Last but not least, don’t forget about what Mother Nature has to offer. Learn to identify edible plants in your area and enjoy free, fresh food right from your backyard or local park.
With these frugal homesteading ideas, you can save money while living the homestead life. Whether you’re new to homesteading or you’ve been at it for years, these tips will help you reduce your expenses and live a more sustainable lifestyle.