Are you in a savings rut? Or worse yet, have you just stopped trying to save money because you got tired of thinking about it? Even when you have a clear savings goal in mind, the process can become tedious and a little boring if you don’t change it up once in a while.

Challenge yourself to try some of these unexpected ways to save that can re-energize your efforts and help you get back on track toward your savings goal.     

Use Multi-tasking Products

Cut down on cost and clutter by using a single product for a number of different purposes. Here are some examples to get you thinking outside the box (or can, or bottle):

• Employ nature’s dynamic duo of vinegar and baking soda for a number of cleaning jobs
• Shave with conditioner, lotion or coconut oil instead of shaving cream
• Polish silver and brass with a dab of toothpaste

Get Schooled

Find the barber or beauty school in your area and start going there for haircuts, blowouts, manicures and other grooming. It will cost you a fraction of salon prices and all work is supervised by instructors so you don’t have to worry about leaving with a Mohawk (unless that’s what you want).

Take Shorter Showers

Save money on water and power bills by shortening the length of your shower. If you’re feeling extra brave and motivated, try taking cold (or lukewarm) showers – that’s guaranteed to get you in and out in record time.

Get a Garment Steamer

Save yourself the hassle, expense and chemical exposure of having your clothing dry cleaned. A few spritzes of fabric refresher  followed by a thorough steaming will freshen garments and remove wrinkles for just pennies per piece.

Rethink Date Night

There are plenty of ways to spend time together that don’t require a lot of cash. Look for free local events like concerts in the park, community theater productions, student art shows and free admission days at museums. Save spendy restaurant meals for special occasions.

Fight the Phantom

Phantom power, that is. Did you know everything that plugs into an outlet is using power, even when you turn it off? Chances are you have between 20 and 40 things plugged in at any given time that you’re not using. Start unplugging them to save – and while we’re talking about power, remember to turn out the lights as you leave a room.