The Frugal Free Gal

Why Cooking from Scratch Can Help Save Money (And How to Get Started)

If you’re looking for practical ways to stretch your grocery budget and get more bang for your buck, cooking from scratch is one of the best strategies you can adopt.

It’s not just about saving money — it also means healthier meals, less waste, and even some fun in the kitchen.

Whether you’re a beginner or just looking for fresh inspiration, here’s why cooking from scratch can help you save money and how to make it work for your family.

You may also like:

• The Ultimate Guide to Meal Planning
• How to Stock Your Pantry on a Budget
• Creating an Efficient Summer Meal Plan to Save Money and Time

The Real Money-Saving Benefits of Cooking from Scratch

1. Cutting Down on Processed Food Costs

• Pre-packaged meals and convenience foods often carry a premium price.
• Buying raw ingredients like flour, rice, beans, and fresh veggies is cheaper in the long run.
• Example: Instead of buying boxed macaroni and cheese, making it from basic ingredients costs a fraction.

2. Portion Control and Less Food Waste

• When you cook yourself, you control portion sizes — so less food gets thrown away.
• Leftovers can be repurposed creatively into new meals.
• Tip: Freeze extra servings in reusable containers to avoid last-minute takeout.

3. Bulk Cooking Saves Time and Money

• Cooking larger batches means fewer cooking sessions — saving energy and time.
• Bulk meals like soups, casseroles, or chili freeze well and help reduce impulse purchases.

4. Use Versatile, Affordable Ingredients

• Staples like beans, lentils, eggs, potatoes, and seasonal vegetables cost less and go a long way.
• Learning recipes that use similar ingredients reduces shopping list size and waste.

5. Healthier Eating Means Fewer Medical Bills

• Scratch cooking allows control over salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats.
• Healthier diets can mean fewer trips to the doctor and lower healthcare costs.
• This is a money saver that pays off beyond just the grocery bill.

Creative Ways to Make Cooking from Scratch Easier & More Affordable

Plan Ahead Like a Pro

• Meal planning saves money by focusing your shopping and cutting last-minute splurges.
• Use apps or printable meal planners to stay organized.

Join Ibotta and Fetch Rewards apps for more great ways to save and earn rewards!

You can get my free printable meal planner here:

Shop Smart & Seasonal

• Buy produce in season and shop local farmers markets or discount grocery stores.
• Freeze seasonal fruits and vegetables to enjoy later.

DIY Your Favorite Convenience Foods

• Make your own salad dressings, sauces, and even snacks.
• Homemade granola bars, yogurt, and bread cost less and taste better.

Repurpose Leftovers Creatively

• Turn roast chicken into soup or tacos.
• Use vegetable scraps to make broth.

Use Energy-Efficient Cooking Methods

• Pressure cookers, air fryers, and slow cookers save time and electricity.
• These appliances can reduce utility bills and speed up meal prep.

Quick Tips to Save Money While Cooking from Scratch

• Buy in bulk: Grains, nuts, spices, and canned goods are cheaper in large quantities.
• Use coupons & cashback apps: Look for deals on fresh ingredients.
• Grow your own herbs: Even a small windowsill garden cuts costs.
• Freeze leftovers smartly: Avoid waste by portioning meals before freezing.
• Shop with a list: Stick to your grocery list to avoid impulse buys.
• Compare unit prices: Sometimes bigger packages aren’t cheaper per ounce — double-check.
• Prep once, eat twice: Cook once and use ingredients for multiple meals.

Get started today!

Here’s a list of items you can stock your pantry with to start cooking from scratch.

Basic Pantry Stocking for Cooking from Scratch

Grains & Staples

• All-purpose flour
• White or brown rice
• Pasta (spaghetti, penne)
• Rolled oats
• Cornmeal

Canned & Dry Goods

• Dried beans (black, pinto, chickpeas)
• Canned tomatoes
• Tomato paste
• Chicken or vegetable broth
• Canned tuna or salmon

Baking Essentials

• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Sugar (granulated and brown)
• Salt
• Yeast

Oils & Vinegars

• Olive oil
• Vegetable or canola oil
• Vinegar (white and apple cider)

Herbs & Spices

• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Black pepper (ground)
• Dried oregano
• Dried basil
• Chili powder
• Cinnamon

Refrigerated Basics

• Eggs
• Butter
• Milk or milk alternative
• Cheese (cheddar, mozzarella)

Fresh Produce

• Onions
• Carrots
• Potatoes
• Seasonal vegetables
• Fresh garlic

Other Essentials

• Honey or maple syrup
• Peanut butter or nut butter

Frequently Asked Questions About Cooking from Scratch to Save Money

Q: How much money can I realistically save by cooking from scratch?
A: Many families report saving 30-50% on grocery bills by cutting out convenience foods and planning meals.

Q: What are some easy recipes for beginners to start cooking from scratch?
A: Try simple recipes like homemade spaghetti sauce, chili, vegetable stir-fry, or basic soups.

Q: What kitchen tools do I need to get started cooking from scratch?
A: Basic tools like a good chef’s knife, cutting board, pots and pans, measuring cups, and a slow cooker or Instant Pot can help a lot.

Q: How can I save time while cooking from scratch?
A: Batch cooking, meal prepping, and using kitchen appliances like slow cookers or pressure cookers can save hours each week.

Q: Is cooking from scratch healthier than buying pre-made meals?
A: Yes, cooking from scratch allows full control over ingredients, reducing added sugars, sodium, and preservatives.

Q: How do I avoid food waste when cooking from scratch?
A: Plan meals around ingredients you already have, freeze leftovers, and repurpose scraps (like veggie peels) into stocks or compost.

How to Clean and Disinfect Used Shoes from a Thrift Store

Smart, Simple Steps to Save Money Without Bringing Home Germs

Buying used shoes from a thrift store can save you serious money—especially when you’re hunting for kids’ sneakers, seasonal boots, or designer finds on a budget.

But before those shoes hit your closet (or your feet), it’s important to clean and disinfect them the right way.

Below you’ll find step-by-step methods to sanitize thrift store shoes, remove odors, kill bacteria and fungus, and make secondhand shoes feel like new again.

You may also like:

• Best Days and Times to Go Thrift Store Shopping
• The Art of Thrift Shopping – Summer Edition
• Best Places to Snag Second-Hand Back-to-School Clothes

Why You Should Clean Thrifted Shoes

Even the best thrift stores don’t sanitize shoes. Dirt, sweat, bacteria, foot fungus, and odors can linger. A deep clean isn’t just about cleanliness—it protects your health.

What You’ll Need

These basic supplies can be found at most stores or online:

• Gentle laundry detergent (like Tide Free & Gentle)
• Baking soda
• White vinegar
• Disinfectant spray
• Tea tree oil or eucalyptus essential oil
• Old toothbrush
• Soft cloth or rag
• Sneaker cleaner eraser sponge
• Shoe deodorizing spray
• Shoe cleaner for leather or suede, depending on the material
• Mesh laundry bag (for machine-washing shoes safely)

Step-by-Step: How to Clean and Disinfect Used Shoes from a Thrift Store

1. Check the Material First

Before you start scrubbing, identify what kind of material you’re dealing with:

• Canvas or fabric: Washable and easy to disinfect
• Leather: Needs gentle treatment to avoid drying/cracking
• Suede: Requires specialty care (never soak!)
• Rubber or plastic: Easily scrubbed and sanitized

2. Remove and Clean Insoles and Laces

• Take out the insoles and laces.
• Wash laces in warm soapy water or toss in a mesh laundry bag in the washing machine.
• Scrub insoles with a mix of baking soda and vinegar to kill odor and bacteria.
• Let air dry completely in sunlight, if possible (sunlight is a natural disinfectant!).

Consider a pack of no-tie replacement laces or memory foam insoles for an easy comfort upgrade.

3. Clean the Exterior

For Canvas or Fabric Shoes:

• Mix a few drops of gentle laundry detergent with warm water.
• Use an old toothbrush to scrub the fabric gently.
• Rinse with a damp cloth (don’t soak them completely unless machine washing).
• For heavy-duty cleaning, place in a mesh laundry bag and machine wash on gentle.

For Leather Shoes:

• Use a soft cloth with a mix of water and mild soap.
• Avoid soaking the leather.
• Condition with leather conditioner after drying to keep them soft and crack-free.

For Suede:

• Gently brush with a suede brush to remove dirt.
• For stains, rub with a white pencil eraser or specialty suede cleaner.
• Never soak or scrub harshly.

4. Disinfect Inside and Out

• Spray inside the shoe with disinfectant spray (make sure the shoe isn’t soaking).
• Add a few drops of tea tree oil or eucalyptus oil for natural antibacterial and antifungal properties.
• Wipe exterior soles with disinfecting wipes or a rag dipped in vinegar and water.

5. Eliminate Odor Naturally

• Sprinkle baking soda inside the shoes and let sit overnight.
• Tap it out the next day.
• For ongoing odor control, place charcoal shoe deodorizers, Sneaker Balls Odor-Fighting Shoe Fresheners, NonScents Shoe Deodorizer or dryer sheets inside when storing.

6. Air Dry in the Sun

Let the shoes dry thoroughly outside in direct sunlight if possible. Sunlight naturally kills germs and bacteria.

Avoid heat from dryers—it can warp rubber soles and damage materials.

Quick Care by Shoe Type

Budget-Friendly Cleaning Tips

• Use Dollar Tree spray bottles for DIY cleaners (vinegar + essential oil).
• Buy bulk baking soda and keep it in a mason jar for easy use.
• Use old socks as reusable polishing cloths.
• Clean thrifted shoes in batches to save time and supplies.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can you get foot fungus from used shoes?
Yes, it’s possible if shoes weren’t disinfected. Always clean thoroughly and use a disinfectant spray or essential oils to kill fungus and bacteria.

2. Can I machine wash shoes from the thrift store?
Yes—for most canvas or fabric shoes. Remove laces and insoles, and place in a mesh laundry bag before washing on gentle.

3. What’s the best way to disinfect inside used shoes?
Use Lysol, Microban, or a mix of vinegar + essential oil. Let dry completely before wearing.

4. How do I get the thrift store smell out of shoes?
Use baking soda overnight, dryer sheets, or charcoal deodorizer inserts. Airing them out in the sun also helps.

5. Is it safe for kids to wear thrifted shoes?
Yes—if cleaned properly. Kids often outgrow shoes quickly, so secondhand is smart. Just be sure to disinfect thoroughly first.

6. How long should I let shoes dry after disinfecting?
At least 24 hours. Make sure all moisture is gone to prevent mold or bacteria growth.

7. What disinfectant kills foot fungus in shoes or on feet?
Look for sprays that specifically mention antifungal properties—like tea tree oil, Microban 24, or Lysol Athlete’s Foot Spray.

Want to make thrifted shoes feel like new?
Clean, disinfect, deodorize—and save money while doing it.

Looking to build a well-stocked pantry without breaking the bank? With a few smart strategies, you can save money, reduce food waste, and ensure your family always has meals ready—even during busy weeks or emergencies.

In this guide, I’ll share 15 practical tips to stock your pantry on a budget and help you maximize your grocery trips.

1. Make a Pantry Stock-Up Plan

Before you hit the store, take inventory of what you already have. Decide which items you need most and which staples your family actually eats.

Pro tip: Make a list of 20–30 pantry essentials—things like canned beans, pasta, tomato sauce, rice, and canned vegetables. This helps you focus on items that add real value to your pantry.

Top Pantry Staples for a Budget-Friendly Pantry

Here are some essentials that are affordable, versatile, and have a long shelf life—perfect for stocking your pantry on a budget:

Grains & Pasta

• Rice (white, brown, or instant)
• Pasta noodles
• Quinoa or couscous (optional for variety)

Canned & Jarred Goods

• Beans (pinto, black, kidney, or chickpeas)
• Canned chicken or tuna
• Canned vegetables (corn, green beans, peas)
• Tomato sauce & diced tomatoes
• Canned fruit in juice

Baking & Cooking Essentials

• Flour, sugar, and baking powder
• Salt, pepper, and basic spices
• Oil (vegetable, canola, or olive)
• Honey or syrup

Snacks & Convenience Items

• Crackers
• Granola bars
• Nut butters

Drinks & Pantry Beverages

• Powdered or boxed drinks
• Shelf-stable milk or milk alternatives
• Bottled water or large packs

2. Buy Pantry Staples in Bulk

Buying in bulk can save a lot over time. Compare the unit price of jumbo packs versus smaller portions, and only stock what you will realistically use.

Example: A large bag of pasta may cost less per ounce than multiple smaller packs, and you can portion it into smaller containers at home.

Check out Amazon Grocery Pantry Essentials for affordable staples that can help you stock your pantry on a budget.

3. Follow Your Grocery Store’s Selling Cycle

Every grocery store has a sales cycle for staples like pasta, canned vegetables, and cereal. Track weekly ads over a few months to identify when items hit their lowest price, then stock up.

Tip: Keep a record of sale prices so you always know when it’s time to buy.

4. Clip Coupons (Digital and Paper)

Coupons aren’t just for extreme savers anymore. Most stores offer digital coupons via their loyalty programs.

• Check weekly ads for special deals.
• Use store apps for digital coupons.
• Combine coupons with sales for maximum savings.

Don’t forget to take advantage of money-saving apps like Ibotta and Fetch Rewards while shopping. They’re free, easy to use, and a great way to earn cash back on everyday pantry staples.

You can also save on everyday household products with P&G brandSAVER. Earn cash-back rebates, digital coupons, and rewards on select products, helping stretch your grocery budget even further.

5. Check Clearance Aisles

Grocery stores often mark down items due to packaging changes, overstock, or approaching “best by” dates. You can find great deals on:

• Rice, sugar, and flour
• Canned goods
• Snacks and beverages

Tip: Only buy items you can realistically use before they expire.

6. Shop During National Food-Themed Months

Certain times of the year bring extra discounts on pantry items. For example, February is National Canned Food Month, with sales on:

• Canned meat, vegetables, and fruit
• Vegetable juices and canned milk

If you miss the month, look for sales cycles and stock up on dried beans, lentils, or pasta for long-term savings.

7. Prioritize Foods You Actually Eat

Stocking up on items you dislike doesn’t save money—it wastes it. Be honest about your family’s favorites.

Ideas:

• Pasta sauces and noodles for spaghetti
• Canned beans for chili or salads
• Canned chicken for sandwiches and casseroles
• Canned vegetables for easy side dishes

8. Fight Food Waste with Smart Storage

Properly storing foods extends shelf life and prevents waste. For long-lasting staples, focus on:

• Rice, pasta, and grains in airtight containers
• Canned items in cool, dark areas
• Spices, seasonings, and baking essentials in sealed jars

9. Cook from Your Pantry

A stocked pantry means quick, budget-friendly meals. Turn basics into delicious dishes:

• Chili with canned beans and tomatoes
• Pasta with canned tomato sauce and frozen vegetables
• Soups using canned chicken or lentils

Recommended cookbooks:

• The Homemade Pantry: 101 Foods You Can Stop Buying and Start Making: A Cookbook
• Essential Pantry Cookbook: 80 Easy Recipes and 100 Creative Variations to Make the Most of On-Hand Staples
• Easy & Practical Dry Mix Pantry Cookbook
• DIY Essential Pantry Staples

10. Try Canning and Preserving

If you grow produce or find local deals, canning is a cost-effective way to preserve fruits and vegetables.

Check out: The Complete Guide to Pressure Canning: Everything You Need to Know to Can Meats, Vegetables, Meals in a Jar, and More

Tip: You can learn canning on YouTube or find affordable supplies at thrift stores.

11. Use Reusable Containers for Bulk Items

Divide bulk purchases into smaller, airtight containers to maintain freshness. This works for:

• Snacks like chips or pretzels
• Cereal, rice, and beans
• Baking ingredients

12. Don’t Forget Drinkable Essentials

Stock up on water packs, powdered drinks, or boxed juices when on sale. These are often cheaper in bulk and last a long time.

13. Combine Sales, Coupons, and Loyalty Programs

For maximum savings, combine:

1. Store sale prices
2. Digital or paper coupons
3. Loyalty card perks

This strategy can save you 20–50% on your pantry essentials over time.

14. Make a Pantry Checklist

Track your stock to avoid buying duplicates and to see what you need next. A simple spreadsheet or printable checklist works wonders.

Tip: Update your list monthly and plan your grocery trips around sales.

15. Start Small, Then Expand

You don’t need a completely full pantry overnight. Start with a few high-priority staples and gradually add more. Over time, you’ll build a well-rounded, budget-friendly pantry that supports your family and your wallet.

Final Thoughts

Stocking your pantry on a budget is easier than it seems. With careful planning, strategic shopping, and smart storage, you can reduce grocery bills, fight food waste, and always have meals ready for your family.

Looking to stock your pantry on a budget? One of the easiest ways is to shop Amazon Grocery, where you can find affordable pantry staples delivered straight to your door.

Big game day is one of the most-watched events of the year, and whether you’re hosting a small gathering of friends or a full house of football fans, party costs can quickly get out of control. From snacks to drinks to decorations, it’s easy to spend way more than you intended.

The good news? With a few smart strategies, you can throw a fun, crowd-pleasing game day party without draining your wallet. Here’s how to save money and still impress your guests.

1. Make It BYOB (Bring Your Own Beverage)

Drinks are often one of the biggest expenses for any party. Instead of footing the entire bill, ask guests to bring their favorite beer, wine, or soft drinks. Most people are happy to pitch in, especially when there’s a spread of snacks waiting for them. This simple step can save hundreds of dollars on your beverage budget alone.

Tip: Set up a labeled cooler or a small drink station so everyone knows where their contributions go.

2. Turn Your Party Into a Potluck

Food is another major expense, and the easiest way to save is to ask guests to bring a dish to share. From homemade dips to chips or even a side salad, potluck-style parties are cost-effective and give your spread more variety.

Pro Tip: Coordinate in advance so you don’t end up with ten bowls of the same dip. Use a simple spreadsheet or group chat to track who’s bringing what.

3. Skip the Pre-Made Items

It’s tempting to grab pre-made trays, potato salad, or giant subs, but these convenience foods come with a high price tag. By making simple snacks and sides yourself, you can save a lot while still serving tasty treats.

Smart Savings: Buy ingredients in bulk and make easy snacks like popcorn, deviled eggs, or homemade chips and dip. You’ll save money and add a personal touch to your party table.

4. Keep Decorations Simple

While decorations can make your space festive, over-the-top décor isn’t necessary. Most of your guests’ attention will be on the game, the commercials, and of course, the snacks. A few themed touches from your local dollar store or DIY projects are all you really need.

Money-Saving Idea: Paper banners, balloons, and simple table centerpieces can go a long way without blowing your budget.

5. Bonus Tip: Plan Ahead

Last-minute purchases are usually more expensive. Make a game day budget, plan your menu, and shop early to take advantage of sales and discounts. You’ll stay organized, save money, and avoid stressful last-minute runs to the store.

Throwing a big game day party doesn’t have to be expensive. With a little planning, smart shopping, and help from your guests, you can host a fun and frugal event that everyone will remember.

Extra Frugal Tips and Ideas for Your Big Game Day Party

Want to save even more while keeping your big game day party fun and memorable? Here are some practical ways to stretch your budget without cutting corners on flavor or fun.

Budget-Friendly Snack Ideas

Make your spread exciting without spending a fortune:

• Popcorn with creative seasonings: Try ranch, chili powder, or Parmesan for an inexpensive twist.
• DIY tortilla chips and salsa: Homemade chips are cheaper and just as tasty as store-bought.
• Veggie sticks with homemade dip: Carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers with a simple yogurt or ranch dip.
• Deviled eggs or mini sandwiches: Affordable, filling, and easy to make ahead.
• Cheese and cracker platter: Buy store brands or in bulk to save money.

Frugal Game Day Party Checklist

Use this simple checklist to stay organized and avoid last-minute overspending:

• Drinks: BYOB or make a big batch of homemade punch.
• Snacks: Make some DIY items and coordinate a potluck for variety.
• Decorations: Dollar store finds or simple DIY banners.
• Seating & setup: Repurpose what you already have at home.
• Budget tracker: Keep track of what you spend so you don’t go overboard.

Extra Money-Saving Hacks

• Buy store-brand snacks in bulk—it’s cheaper and lasts longer.
• Use coupons, cash-back apps, or local grocery deals for last-minute items.
• Serve snacks in repurposed containers instead of buying themed bowls or plates.
• Freeze leftovers for future meals or snacks.

These tips make hosting a big game day party simple, fun, and budget-friendly. By planning ahead and using a few frugal hacks, you can throw a party your friends will love without overspending.