Save money in the kitchen

Reduce spending on the kitchen basics and you'll be surprised how much money you can save. For example, extend the life of your kitchen sponge by tossing it in with a load of dishes in the dishwasher every couple of days or so. This will sanitize it and give you several additional weeks' use.

Stop buying paper towels
In addition to being a money-saving move, repurposing old T-shirts and cloth diapers as dishrags and cleaning cloths cuts down on waste, so it's better for the environment.

Save money on food by freezing
Stock up when the prices are low on your favorite grocery items. Toss them in deep freeze so they'll be fresh when you need them. Buy shredded cheese in bulk when you see a deal. Sprinkle in cornstarch to prevent sticking, then freeze. Consider storing herbs and spices and loaves of bread in the freezer, too, to extend their shelf life.


Cut down on kitchen energy costs
After the dishwasher's final rinse, open the door and pull out the racks. Let the dishes air-dry to save electricity.