I didn’t start out as frugal person. Instead, I had to learn things over the years that have helped me save money. A lot of people think that saving money is something that just comes naturally to me. At this point it does, but it wasn’t always like that. I also always get asked what advice or tips I’d give to someone that wants to be a frugal or savvy shopper. I’ve talked with some of my fellow frugal moms and we’ve come up with a list of some of our best tips. Scroll down to check them out.

Start a garden.

A garden is great for you physically, mentally and financially. Gardening will put your mind at ease and gardening is also considered to be a form of exercise. Plus, you’ll have access to fresh food that you don’t have to pay for.

Get a programmable thermostat.

Did you know that a programmable thermostat saves the average person as much as $180 every single year? Programmable thermostats are cheap and extremely convenient. While you’re away from home, there’s no point in leaving your air conditioning at the same temperature. With a programmable thermostat, you can set it so that it will go to a higher temperature while you’re gone and it will automatically adjust itself to a lower setting before you get home.

Do-It-Yourself cleaning products.

There are plenty of different ways you can make your own cleaning products and chances are, you already have all of the ingredients already in your home. With some vinegar, baking soda, lemons and cornstarch, you can make a ton of different household cleaners that can take on tons of different tasks. Also, by making your own cleaners at home, you control what goes into your cleaning products. That way, you don’t have to worry about harmful ingredients or chemicals.

Shop at the Amazon Outlet.

Did you know that Amazon has an outlet section? As if Amazon didn’t already offer great deals, you’ll find significantly discounted items at the Amazon Outlet. At the Amazon Outlet, you’ll be able to find deals on anything from Jewelry, to electronics, to clothing. Of course, you should never buy anything you don’t truly need, no matter how great the deal may be.

Use coupons.

You had to know that this was going to be on the list; right? Right now, you’re on one of the internet’s biggest resources for coupons. I highly suggest you use our coupons to your advantage the next time you’re at the store. Coupons can save you a ton of money.

Use smartphone apps.

There are plenty of apps out there for your phone that can save you a ton of money. For instance, you could use the app, GasBuddy, to find the best prices on gasoline in your area. RedLazer will allow you to scan the barcode on items while you’re shopping and then it will present you with the best deals. Go through the app store and look at all over the great money-saving apps.