In today’s world, saving a few quid here and there is always welcome. I’ve often wondered if certain things could be more affordable when made at home, and the answer is a resounding yes! Whether it’s for cutting costs or the joy of creating something yourself, some items can be surprisingly easy and cheap to DIY. Plus, many of these things turn out to be healthier, eco-friendlier, or simply more satisfying when you’ve crafted them with your own hands. Let’s take a look at some everyday items that are surprisingly cheaper to make than to buy, with a few of them offering a pretty fun process along the way!
1. Bread
Homemade bread is one of the easiest ways to save money. Flour, yeast, salt, and water are dirt cheap, and a loaf costs significantly less than shop-bought options. Plus, when you bake your own, you can control the ingredients, avoiding preservatives. Even if you don’t own a bread maker, it can be a fun weekend project!
2. Candles
Candles, especially scented ones, can be outrageously expensive. But making them at home is as easy as melting wax, adding a wick, and maybe some essential oils. A bit of wax and fragrance can stretch for multiple candles, costing far less than those posh ones at department stores.
3. Cleaning Products
Many cleaning products are just water mixed with simple household ingredients like vinegar or baking soda. By making your own, you avoid harmful chemicals and hefty prices. All-purpose cleaners, glass sprays, and disinfectants are particularly easy and cheap to whip up.
4. Laundry Detergent
You’d be surprised how cheap it is to make laundry detergent. All you need are a few ingredients like washing soda, borax, and a soap bar, which can last you months. Not only do you save money, but it’s also kinder on the environment with fewer chemicals and plastic packaging.
5. Granola
Granola is notoriously pricey in shops, especially when you’re looking for organic or special blends. Making your own is simple: just mix oats, nuts, seeds, and a sweetener of choice. You’ll end up with a healthier, tastier version that costs much less per serving.
6. Salad Dressing
Bottled salad dressings can be quite costly, especially the healthier, additive-free varieties. Making your own is as simple as combining olive oil, vinegar, and a few herbs or mustard. You’ll have a fresh, flavourful dressing without the extra preservatives or sugars.
7. Lip Balm
Lip balms are small, but they can be overpriced! By melting beeswax and mixing it with coconut oil and essential oils, you can make a batch of balms for a fraction of the store-bought price. Plus, you can get creative with flavours and scents.
8. Plant Fertiliser
Buying plant food can add up over time, especially if you’ve got a green thumb. Instead, consider making your own fertiliser from items you’d normally throw away—like coffee grounds, eggshells, or banana peels. It’s effective, eco-friendly, and practically free.
9. Soap
Much like detergent, soap can be made with a few basic ingredients like lye, fats, and essential oils. While the process requires caution, you can produce large batches of soap that are cheaper than boutique or luxury brands, and you can customise them to your skin’s needs.
10. Herbal Tea Blends
Specialty herbal teas can be surprisingly pricey. By drying your own herbs or buying them in bulk, you can easily make your own blends. Not only will it cost less, but you can tailor the flavours to your exact taste—whether you prefer soothing chamomile or invigorating peppermint.
11. Dog Treats
Pet treats can be shockingly expensive, but with a few basic ingredients like oats, peanut butter, and pumpkin, you can bake up a healthy batch at home. Your dog won’t notice the difference, and you’ll save money while knowing exactly what’s in your furry friend’s snacks.
12. Curtains
Buying ready-made curtains or blinds can be surprisingly expensive. If you’ve got a bit of sewing know-how, fabric stores offer a much more affordable option. You can make your own curtains to suit your style and measurements for a fraction of the price.
21 Things Pilots Are Forbidden to Do During Flights
Have you ever wondered what rules pilots must follow while they’re in the cockpit? Being a pilot is a job that comes with a lot of responsibility and a strict set of rules to ensure the safety of everyone on board.
These rules ensure that pilots maintain the highest standards of safety and professionalism while flying. By adhering to these guidelines, they help ensure that every flight reaches its destination safely.
Read More: 21 Things Pilots Are Forbidden to Do During Flights
Ellen has been obsessed with logic puzzles, jigsaws, and cryptograms since she was a kid. After learning she was taught how to play chess wrong by a family friend (so they could win), she joined her school chess club and the rest is history.
