Saving money can seem like it means giving up on nice things, but frugal people have found ways to keep their homes feeling luxurious without spending a lot. These small, budget-friendly changes can not only save money but also improve mental well-being. Robert Cuyler, PhD, Chief Clinical Officer at Freespira, shared with VeryWell Mind that these “little luxuries” can help release feel-good chemicals in the brain, which can enhance mood and contribute to lower blood pressure, better sleep, less muscle tension, and a stronger immune system by reducing stress.
Here are 15 home hacks that frugal individuals recommend for saving money while creating a fancy atmosphere:
One person mentioned their grandfather-in-law’s use of motion sensor lights, which they found made them feel royal each time they entered a room. This hack also helped reduce energy bills and increased hygiene by avoiding the need to touch light switches while cooking.
Another individual described a pressure-based light switch installed in their pantry door, which turns the light on when the door opens and off when it closes, making it very convenient.
Using cloth napkins instead of paper ones was highlighted by someone who noted that cloth is not only better for the environment but also adds a nicer touch.
A user shared the benefit of carrying items on trays, making it feel more elegant and effortless.
Changing out toilet seats to ones that are easy to remove for cleaning was noted as a significant improvement for household maintenance.
Others suggested using an LED bulb that can be set for sunrise and sunset routines and silicone trays to keep skincare products organized.
An automatic soap and water dispenser in the kitchen was praised for reducing the need to clean faucets after handling raw meat.
One person shared that they bought a large pack of white washcloths to keep in their bathroom, giving it a hotel-like feel with minimal effort.
Indoor plants were also recommended, especially low-light varieties that are easy to propagate. One person mentioned their pothos plant, which has provided cuttings for greenery throughout their home, creating a beautiful atmosphere.
A user described a bathroom fan switch that allows them to choose how long it runs, alleviating worries about it functioning during the night or when they are not at home.
Another hack included placing a vintage pitcher in the shower to fill with hot water while keeping the main water off, adding a touch of luxury while saving water.
Finally, door catchers and stops were mentioned as practical additions for room doors.
What frugal home hacks have you found helpful?
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Source: Upworthy, by Emily Shiffer