I have a special needs child who has severe physical and cognitive disabilities. We keep an Amazon wishlist for him so friends and family can see what he needs. We started this a few years ago because while people in our lives are generous their gifts, they didn’t know what to get him. So now we have items like things he needs that insurance doesn’t cover, vitamins, supplements, bandages, also clothing items, equipment he needs, books, toys that are geared to ability instead of age,etc. Game changer for everyone.
@alicephillips841
2 жыл бұрын
What a marvelous idea!
@frugalautie
Жыл бұрын
That’s so smart 🙌👍 my nephew is disabled and I always just gifted his mother cold hard cash (I knew she’d know what he’d need best). He’s blind and people have gifted him some truly wacky things he can’t use 😂🤦♀️ they mean well but 🤷♀️
@patmartin9727
Жыл бұрын
What a great idea
@butterflyj1967
2 жыл бұрын
I work from home and my work uniform in the winter is the height of fashion....A knitted hat, gloves, the fluffiest biggest dressing gown I could find, double layered clothes and socks . UK 2022 eh gotta love it!
@FrugalQueeninFrance
2 жыл бұрын
You’ll need even more this winter
@susanne6943
2 жыл бұрын
Love your fashion, Jules. I do the same.
@patmartin9727
2 жыл бұрын
As a person who has struggled to loose weight over the last few years I now find myself looking in the charity shops for extra large fleeces jumpers and hoodies. I also have picked up 2 pairs of jeans that re a size larger so I can wear leggings and thick tights under them in winter. I also need to look for a large dressing gown or onesie and also a couple of large body warmers or quilted jackets that I can wear around the house in winter. I have done all I can to recycle and help global warming but at the rate the energy bills are rising we will all be praying for a warmer winter.
@maryd1495
Жыл бұрын
@@patmartin9727 That is brilliant!
@gladyschandler6724
2 жыл бұрын
I've been stocking up canned salmon, tuna, soup, tomatoe sauce, tomatoe paste, stock, canned coconut milk, tea, coffee, suger, flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt & spices, oatmeal & creme of wheat....
@FrugalQueeninFrance
2 жыл бұрын
Good ideas
@gladyschandler6724
2 жыл бұрын
@@rharvey2124 oh I always have lentils and make every other week for lunches, rest I freeze for another week; my son keeps cans of sardines.
@michellerubadue9620
2 жыл бұрын
To save money I went to a charity shop and purchased wool blankets, then I purchased wool sweaters that matched the decor of our house and my childrens homes. I took my items and made throw blankets for my family. I also made rice bags you warm in the microwave to put into the bed to warm it up before bed. We also use hot water bottles to keep warm. We also have oil lamps for light at night. Bubble wrap on the windows for insulation, the warm blanket covering the windows.
@FrugalQueeninFrance
2 жыл бұрын
Those are superb ideas Michelle
@logarithmic7
2 жыл бұрын
With the humidity here today it's +47C and we dont have aircon. 3 kids and an old house with few windows doesn't provide a lot of relief. So what we do to stay cool at bedtime is reversed from out winter hot water bottles. I freeze wet bath towels wrapped in a large ziplock bag. One towel per child at bedtime and off to comfortable sleep they go! I refreeze them in the morning all ready for another sweltering night.
@susanne6943
2 жыл бұрын
If you can at all, batch cook and freeze the meals. It takes less energy to warm it up in the microwave than cooking the dish from scratch every time.
@karenbowden552
2 жыл бұрын
Great and thought provoking video. We often sit in the warm room during winter, watching tv with our clothes airer keeping us company and the socks lined up on the radiator! I will use candles or fairy lights for light and helps the room feel cosy. Currently been adding staples to my pantry...this week it's sugar and oil. Will be buying over the coming months...airfryer, radiator reflective heat panels, hot water bottles and winter shoes. I'm so very aware of how lucky I am to be able to make/save for these extras before the time they are needed.....ensuring to share with others too.
@FrugalQueeninFrance
2 жыл бұрын
Thanks Karen
@bria2596
2 жыл бұрын
The most valuable part of your message is that small steps is the best way to tackle overwhelming future problems. The challenge becomes doable, when you chip away at it consistently and with purpose. You are exactly right. Otherwise, people get overwhelmed, and do nothing - which is a critical error in times like these. * I have prepaid for my electric, water/garbage through June of 2023. I started prepaying in late 2019 when some weird stuff happened where my payments which were made about 2 weeks early, were not credited to my account until the due date, even though they had the money in their hand. I found that so irritating, the only way to get around it was to get a credit built up at the utilities. It has worked very well. * Basic life essentials: I have been finding other ways to have heat, lighting, and water, because my house is ALL electric, and we have experienced loss of power for many days at a time in Feb 2021, during the winter storms in Texas. I have made my best effort to address all of the basic needs. Until it happens again, I will not know how successful I have been. I have bought simple canned food that only needs to be heated (not cooked), and stocked emergency water and ways to purify water. I have a tea pot warmer that can heat food slowly. If I wanted to brave cooking outside, I now have a rocket stove, and it only needs dried sticks to work. So, I have been collecting sticks to dry and secure, if they become needed. I have worked to address how to stay warm, and keep the water running, and deal with sanitation, should the grid go down again. There is LOT to think about and plan for. Thankfully, there are a lot of smart people on KZitem with lots of good ideas, and I have been spending time learning from them, making a basic plan, and working to address basic needs. You shine as an educator on KZitem. Thanks!
@katherinerichardson1767
2 жыл бұрын
Good thinking Bri A.
@barbarabruce7648
2 жыл бұрын
And I bet it makes you feel good being so prepared. Something to think about🤔
@veemcg3682
2 жыл бұрын
Good for you. I hope that you never need them but it is great that you have sussed out how to manage if the worst happens. I admire you and wish you well God bless
@michelehagerman216
2 жыл бұрын
Another thing I would also add to stock up on are books from charity shops, Marketplace, etc. Also games, puzzles, whatever you and your family like to do. Good to put aside for the colder weather to come.
@morningswithgranny7789
2 жыл бұрын
Great advice!!!! My granddaughter is starting college next month. I have been buying extra when things were on sale so when she visits I will give her Grandma's College Pack. I include laundry detergent, dryer sheets, quarters for laundromat if needed, kleenex, toilet tissue, toothpaste, etc. It helps them get started. My Christmas/Birthday shopping is done for the year 😊
@2Beldam
2 жыл бұрын
I ❤️ this! So kind of you. My grandma did the same for me. She even got her best friend to bake me frosted gingerbread men (since she was a baker herself). It meant to much to me. She’s been gone for a while now but I still think of her and miss her every day 😢💔 (when I was a little girl she used to record all my favorite cartoons on vhs and mail it to me as a treat. Small gestures are everything).
@anonamead6501
2 жыл бұрын
Sage advice but not addressing the problem of those who have got absolutely nothing. Not knocking because nobody has got an answer to this one. There is at least one headmaster in the midlands who is not only taking food, clothing etc to pupils families in desperate need he is also having to provide hot water. When I was a child it was perfectly normal for overcoats to be put on beds in winter. Google rocket stoves for cooking. This is only possible if you have an out door space. Can’t afford a clothes airer, brooms, mops lashed to two kitchen, dining chairs will give a bit of drying space. Parents who have got a marginal bit more if ready cash are getting concerned about constantly hungry children. Best advice is to put up a weekly menu. Back of a cornflake packet will do to write on. Write up. Breakfast lunch and dinner and then two snack times. P,leas for food outside those times will not be countenanced. Layer clothes winter. Save holed, laddered tights to go under jeans, trousers. Summer t shirts make good vests under winter tops. Big hugs to all of you who are doing amazing things in such traumatic times🤗
@FrugalQueeninFrance
2 жыл бұрын
That’s so true, sadly frugality and good financial planning can’t help of you already in poverty but it can help to stop you going into,poverty with some planning if you can now, for example overpayments on energy bills now.
@flatlandah52
2 жыл бұрын
Years ago I found a free pattern online for making a “wonder box”. It’s an insulated fabric box that really retains heat. Sort of a modern take on an insulated hay box. To use, get your soup, rice, potatoes etc boiling, place it in the wonder box. The heat will continue to cook the food, saving energy costs. Again, there are free patterns online.
@FrugalQueeninFrance
2 жыл бұрын
Those are brilliant
@allisonspeer6837
2 жыл бұрын
I have done this in the past and used an old comforter to line the box and insulate it. It actually worked.
@susanne6943
2 жыл бұрын
I wrap pots in a towel and put them in my bed under the blanket to keep the food warm.
@shivakat2297
2 жыл бұрын
Saw a video where girl used an old cooler lined with blankets. It appeared to insulate very well.
@susanne6943
2 жыл бұрын
@@marianlinden9736 I am German but live in the US, Marian. I don't know what you mean by "to bdob in risk Germany.
@erikaharrison4018
2 жыл бұрын
We started buying a truck load of firewood each month to be prepared for winter time this year. I also want to take a moment to say I enjoy your videos weekly and today's video especially you could tell how important this topic was to you to make sure that everyone understands that there's ways to spread the cost, cheaper locations to find things, and just your overall concern for everybody's well-being touched my heart deeply!
@FrugalQueeninFrance
2 жыл бұрын
Thanks Erika, if only it would lighten my heavy heart of the deprivations people will face this winter in unheated homes with dirty clothes they can’t afford to wash or dry.
@karinklapproth866
2 жыл бұрын
We have been stocking up our cupboards in our kitchen for six months knowing that leaner times for us are coming. A few cans here, a few jars there…it is working!!And it is easier to make the soup or spaghetti or casserole because we already have many of the ingredients. Thank you for the video🤗 Take care🦋💗
@FrugalQueeninFrance
2 жыл бұрын
Keep at it, you’ll need it
@anna_reads862
2 жыл бұрын
I've started a small patio garden. When I do my weekly grocery shopping, I choose one or two things that I can use the scraps of to re-grow more of. For example, last week it was scallions. I learned how to make Chinese scallion pancakes - flour, oil, water, scallions, and salt. Super easy to make in a pinch, especially since scallions will keep growing almost endlessly. There are lots of veggies like this that I am learning about and piecing together one at a time.
@reallifeagedcaredisability1063
2 жыл бұрын
Years ago when I moved out with my first boyfriend we used to pay $16/week on our power account. One month he said he would do the bills for 3 months he thought he could do it better, he wasn't putting money away it was the middle of summer in Australia we ended up with a huge power bill, car broke down same week $700 for the car and power bill, we were both on minimum wage. I never want to dig myself out of that hole again. I always put something on weekly. Even if it doesn't cover the full cost you might get a $30 bill instead of a $300 bill. Also anyone pregnant at the moment and doesn't know what they want for a baby shower gift ask for grocery store gift cards, regardless of age you'll need food, wipes, nappies something. I can't tell you how appreciative we were of these when we had our baby. My maternity leave payment was stuffed up and then hubby wasn't paid for a month, we dug all of those cards out and bought food and nappies, they kept us going.
@FrugalQueeninFrance
2 жыл бұрын
Great ideas of grocery cards for anyone. In times like this, it helps.
@dawnmorandin541
2 жыл бұрын
Since our children are now adults we have started doing a no present Christmas, we all have everything we need and want to destress this time of year. Last year I also didn't send my usual Christmas cards, my daughter said the act of not running around the shops looking for presents was a gift. For her birthday Last month we bought her a good bicycle to ride to work as we don't own cars. Even when it rains it is cheaper to u ride to work than own a car, she can also get a ride or walk home if needed. She lives in the lower unit of my duplex so we share dinners, I tend to do week days and she'll do weekends.
@FrugalQueeninFrance
2 жыл бұрын
Thanks for sharing Dawn
@patmartin9727
2 жыл бұрын
Another great video Jane. I agree stocking the pantry and freezer and buying clothing that’s reduced or better still from the charity shops in advance for winter and new school year.don’t be too proud to accept hand me downs. I had an uncle who’s wife was a proper snob. She gave me all her daughters cloths some hardly worn, my daughter worn them, then I passed them on to a friend who used them for her daughter and in exchange she bought my daughter socks and tights which again saved me money. Make sure by winter you have plenty of warm cloths including vests and leggings to wear under your cloths to keep you cosy. Think back to how we were dressed in our younger days when we had no central heating. As a pensioner I can not raise my income so I have to do all I can to stretch it by saving pennies here and there. Last winter I use to turn the heating off after lunch and fill my water bottle and get into bed to read my book and listen to the radio for a couple of hours. Doing this every day saved me a whole days heating over the week
@FrugalQueeninFrance
2 жыл бұрын
Never be proud, it’ll cost you.
@gladyschandler6724
2 жыл бұрын
Thermals are great even for sleeping
@pattimcd3177
2 жыл бұрын
It would be a real adjustment for me to live without my full size chest freezer and upright freezer. Here in the USA, I think we’ve taken so many things for granted. But for those of us with our eyes open we can see the changes on the horizon. Thank you.
@FrugalQueeninFrance
2 жыл бұрын
Most UK and European houses couldn’t accommodate them, nor could afford to run them.
@LeAnneTraybsza
2 жыл бұрын
@patti McD, I have taken so much for granted. I have did an about face and am being careful with all things. This American has changed her ways.
@maryannrogers8675
2 жыл бұрын
I live in USA and don’t have full size chest freezer. If you lose electricity then all that food will defrost itself and be wasted. You won’t be able to cook food due to loss of electricity. I’m focusing on building up my pantry with assorted can goods which include fruits, vegetables and canned meats.
@pattimcd3177
2 жыл бұрын
@@maryannrogers8675 Good Morning. Yes, we've thought about that happening as well, and I'm with you, building up my canned food pantry. To protect our investment, we have several alternative fuel/solar generators to help keep things cold as long as possible. We do have a wood stove that we can cook on, as well as several fireplaces. We're working our way through our frozen food, as well as canning, dehydrating and freeze drying foods daily now to prepare for what's to come. My full-time job right now is "food prep/preservation". I'm a senior citizen and have been at this a long time. We're all in this together.
@marthaross6301
2 жыл бұрын
@@pattimcd3177 I’m right there with you.
@donnaallison7462
2 жыл бұрын
Thick wool socks thermal underwear,long sleeve t-shirts to were under your sweaters or sweat shirts to layer, winter leggings to layer under your pants etc to help keep warm,gloves, 0°sleeping bags and a tent that you can pop up in your warmest room and 0° sleeping bags that you could sleep in if you have no heat,hand warmer packs.Nice down coats or jackets and if possible any comforters that are down-filled will keep you warm aswell.
@FrugalQueeninFrance
2 жыл бұрын
Good advice
@katiefranklin5055
2 жыл бұрын
I like your suggestion about using a tent in the warmest room. The idea of camping in your living space is very helpful when trying to conserve energy. We live in New England, and we heat primarily with wood, but we also have oil heat for our hot water heater. We live in a 2 story house, and sometimes sleep downstairs near the wood stove on very cold nights. Our bigger problem is water. The water in our house comes from a shallow well that was originally meant to just provide water to cows. We also have an electric well pump. When we lose electricity during a storm, we lose all water in the house, because the well pump doesn't work. (We do not have a generator.) We can't turn on a faucet or flush the toilet. It is very difficult to get by without running water, but I eventually realized that it is like camping in your own home. Once I realized this, I was able to come up with helpful ways to deal with the problem. Example - a 5 gallon bucket with kitty litter can serve as a makeshift toilet. If necessary, people may have to think about camping in their own homes. It is far from ideal, but it is good to have a plan if energy prices continue to go up.
@annmcnitt8749
Жыл бұрын
I've made wool mittens from free/cheap wool sweaters/jumpers. The end of the sleeve is the cuff edge of the mitten. Trace your hand onto the sleeve, then add a generous amount for finger movement and the seam allowance when you sew the mitten shape. If you remove the rest of the sleeve, then you have a wool vest. Button-down (cardigan) jumpers/sweaters are easier to put on than pullovers. I'm praying that your viewers who live in Britain have a relatively painless winter. I know that inflation and fuel prices are hitting the UK especially hard.
@FrugalQueeninFrance
Жыл бұрын
And here in mainland Europe too, thanks for watching
@loriburgess1866
2 жыл бұрын
Boil water once for the day to make coffee and tea. Store hot water in a thermos.
@mkhuntstreasure3192
2 жыл бұрын
Good advice. Nothing better than hot soup in a thermos on a cold wet day.
@FrugalQueeninFrance
2 жыл бұрын
It’s a good winter option,
@madeleine7729
2 жыл бұрын
What a brilliant concept to spread the cost! Jane, I find this type of video both comforting and motivating. It's winter here in Australia and I actually ordered my firewood in the summer and so got last year's price before petrol costs went through the roof. One tip I read is that if you really cannot heat the house at all shut or curtain off most of the house and put up a tent to sleep in - it will retain body heat. You could improvise by curtaining your bed too. If we ran very low on firewood our plan is to curtain off the kitchen/living space, put a mattress on the floor and bring in the commode (a chair with a porcelain pot in it) to save freezing to death in the bathroom which can get below zero. Sounds awful but sometimes needs must. For those who cannot buy energy saving appliances, a return to the one pot meals featured in wartime cook books is a good idea. Regarding protein that doesn't need cooking, good old baked beans or tins of chick peas can fill the hungry gap.
@leedezern6862
2 жыл бұрын
We put a radiator that you plug in inside our laundry room during extreme cold to keep the pipes from freezing. That room is always the coldest. We also have the water dripping slightly. We take advantage of budget billing. Our bill is the same each month. At the end of each term it’s reevaluated to see if the next cycle goes up or down. One of our utilities just went down by $11 while another went up by $1.
@jackleentoop7693
2 жыл бұрын
On the subject of washing, I’ve found you can cut the amount of washing powder in half when you are adding it to the washing machine, it will save you lots in washing powder or liquid and you still get good results with your wash. In the beginning I was doubtful, especially as I’m quite fussy about the washing and my whites have to be white, but I’ve been very successful with it so far. I also only wash towels and sheets on hot wash and everything else is washed on cold. This is the first winter in Australia I’ve not used the heater because I’m trying to cut the cost of heating, I’m using the quilts I’ve made for sitting at night when watching TV. Summer here is going to be very interesting because its hard to keep cool when the temps are 40+ degrees centigrade but I can run the split system air con a bit during the day in summer, because we’ve got solar, but solar is only good to offset costs when the sun is shining. Since I’ve been watching you, I’ve cut out a lot of subscriptions to various things like Foxtel, Netflix, Stan, the Gym, we’re looking for new mobile plans because we own our phones outright. Ive found KZitem to be the best for me as it has all the things on it that i like to watch. Cooking, quilting, gardening, general discussions., movies. I’ve learnt to make my own bread as it is a lot cheaper than shop bought, and we are growing some of our own vegetables. So thank you Jane for all of your suggestions.
@FrugalQueeninFrance
2 жыл бұрын
Thanks for sharing
@carolynm9798
2 жыл бұрын
We have put cardboard (just placed in the inside windowsill) or bubble wrap (water spritzed against windows will help it stick) to insulate the house temp. I have collected data and it will keep the room about 10 degrees different. In Florida, this is enough.
@FrugalQueeninFrance
2 жыл бұрын
Thanks very much
@susanne6943
2 жыл бұрын
Yes, bubble wrap works like a charm.
@katherinerichardson1767
2 жыл бұрын
The bubble wrap on the windows is a great help in winter and summer Texas. Hi neighbor!
@sharonliquorish6528
2 жыл бұрын
I brought some throws when they were on offer in IKEA, my curtains are lined already but I'm going to use them as another layer of lining so my curtains will be super thick. Also brought some church candles so I don't have to put the lamp on, if it's too cold downstairs I'm going upstairs into a small bedroom that won't take much to heat to watch the TV and read, such sad times ahead.
@FrugalQueeninFrance
2 жыл бұрын
Heat the smallest room
@mikomasterson3319
2 жыл бұрын
I also always make sure I have undershirts and long underwear and sweaters. You can turn the heat down and stay warm. I also have lots of blankets and warm socks. Good luck to everyone. We will get through this.
@annmcnitt8749
Жыл бұрын
What an encouraging video, and the comments are wonderful. Thank you, Jane and Mike!
@FrugalQueeninFrance
Жыл бұрын
Thanks so much
@alainmudd6435
2 жыл бұрын
We have put up a washing line in our garage for days when it's too wet for hanging outside.
@ibislife
2 жыл бұрын
So true, it will be a hard winter, financially. Totally off season I bought another cord of birch firewood. If you have space to dry the firewood yourself, you can get lower prices. In the newspapers it has been warnings about power cuts this coming winter, be prepared, get some oil lamps, second hand, change the wick and the oil, and keep batteries and candles. Oil lamp will also provide some heat, so consider that as a heating option too. (get the pure parafin oil that doesnt fume) And about cooking. I bought a second hand cookbook last week. Jamie Olivers "Save with Jamie". He talks about using leftovers and make better choices in the grocery store. I need the inspiration, and at £4, it was a bargain. Haha, the comment about the freezer, so true, my chest freezer is only 35cm wide! 😂 I buy ziplock bags at ikea, (reuseable) I put everything I buy in those, and tap them as flat as I can get them, so my freezer holds a lot of food! I would also give a shout out of Norwegian open sandwiches. You do not have to serve hot dishes at every meal. And those loafs of bread, slice them and freeze them, just take out what you need. 👍 And consider putting the freezer in your living room, it will generate some heat too. A Norwegian tip to stay warm in a cold damp bedroom: Place a woolen blanket under the sheet. Wool will insulate, and regulate the moisture. I wear wool every day too, especially woolen socks. 😊
@katherinerichardson1767
2 жыл бұрын
Ibislife: Your idea about the woolen blanket under the sheets is great. Thanks for sharing.
@jeannestott1456
2 жыл бұрын
Hi Jane, When you mentioned fleece scarves I thought immediately of fleece blankets and IKEA, you could make fleece jackets square back, 2 oblong fronts ,2oblong sleeves, all cut from one 3.00£ blanket . Either sewn with running, back or blanket stitch! Or even stick with a line of uhu glue! This will save wrapping the blanket around everytime you move off the sofa !!
@FrugalQueeninFrance
2 жыл бұрын
Good idea.
@janbaugus3062
Жыл бұрын
Hi Jane,. We can be on a program that we average our electric and gas bills and pay the same amount each month all year long. This really helps during summer and winter.
@donnasnell5250
2 жыл бұрын
I will second your dehumidifier advice-it’s been a game changer for us. It stops the walls from getting mouldy and helps get the clothes dry, and stops the damp cold feeling in the air. Apparently it is cheaper to heat a room once it is dry. Also the action of the dehumidifier puts slightly warmer air back in to the room. It really is a low cost appliance to run-worth looking into. I paid just under £160 for a new one and i think it played a part in reducing my winter elec bill. It certainly increased our comfort.
@FrugalQueeninFrance
2 жыл бұрын
I run ours in unheated rooms in the winter
@barbarabruce7648
2 жыл бұрын
You sold me. We are having the dampest winter I can ever remember. Going to get one now.👍
@christinerose9648
2 жыл бұрын
Do you have it on all the time over the winter ?
@donnasnell5250
2 жыл бұрын
Great! I found plenty of useful articles online to guide my purchase-there’s 2 types-a dessicant dehumidifier or a refrigerant dehumidifier. The dessicant ones work better at colder temps, and the refrigerant ones work better if you live in a warm humid climate.
@donnasnell5250
2 жыл бұрын
I have it on a constant low setting during the worst of the winter-so from the first day when the windows show condensation. But also I follow the moisture around the house with it and have it in high in the kitchen when boilng things in pans or when using the tumble drier or when drying clothing on a clothes horse over night. If the bathroom gets steamy I take it upstairs for a bit. Mine says it is suitable for a 5 bed house and I have a 2 bed. The idea is to place it in a central position in the home and run it constantly it will suck the moisture from everywhere, over time. It switches itself off when it reaches optimum humidity-because that is excessively dry is also uncomfortable. Or to put your washing up in a small room with the door shut and let it run at the highest setting to draw the moisture out and make the clothes dry-I think it takes approx 6hrs to do this in winter and is cheaper than tumble dryer.
@carolinem5539
2 жыл бұрын
For the first time ever we have bought in a new sinking fund for winter energy costs.
@FrugalQueeninFrance
2 жыл бұрын
Sad part of life. We are waiting for the heat to subside to split wood to fill our wood shed.
@michalaharesnape5434
2 жыл бұрын
Thanks for that Jane. I would add hot water bottles to the shopping list before winter gets here, they really help me when I’m trying to not put the heating on.
@FrugalQueeninFrance
2 жыл бұрын
Great tip
@fionaj3093
2 жыл бұрын
😃 Mine have been purchased and are ready for use, whenever that is 🏴
@nikki27ish
2 жыл бұрын
Yep we have 4 in our home ready for winter.
@alisonwheeler8929
2 жыл бұрын
It’s worth buying hot water bottles now as they are hard to find in winter as they seem to sell out quickly. I use mine when working at home at the computer.
@lynnoorman2144
2 жыл бұрын
I've bought an old fashioned stone hot water bottle from a junk/antique stall in a market. It won't perish! At £3 it was worth a risk. I have tested it and it doesn't leak. So I'm all good for this winter.
@arlenedowdall2011
2 жыл бұрын
Among our group of friends and family if we find a super special at different grocery stores we send emails our immediately so others can buy the deals too. Or pick them up for those that aren't as mobile.
@FrugalQueeninFrance
2 жыл бұрын
That’s lovely
@decorDD
2 жыл бұрын
What a lovely idea ❤️
@anortherncottagepantry5234
2 жыл бұрын
something to consider instead of a slow cooker is a thermal cooker, there are a few brands on the market including some DIY options. Bring food to a boil on the stove top for 1-20 minutes depending on what is being prepared, most foods only take 5 mins, slip into insulated container and in a few hours, (up to 12 hours) you have a fully cooked meal with limited energy use. Another great option that I LOVE using is my solar oven, using the heat of the sun, again there are DIY plans online. Like you I heat my home with wood and have upgraded my wood stove to a wood cook stove, this way I heat my home and cook all my meals as well as dry my laundry on a wood rack which hangs from the ceiling, using one energy source.
@katieq7210
2 жыл бұрын
I was wondering could you make one from a pillow or a duvet ? Great tips
@anortherncottagepantry5234
2 жыл бұрын
@@katieq7210 yes absolutely, there are DIY patterns available online, but a quick and easy version is wrapping a cast iron pot in a duvet and putting it in a cooler
@jkazzie2521
2 жыл бұрын
We have a storage room in our house which gets the sun each day. We have 3 clothes horses in there and we turn the ceiling fan on high. The combination of sun through the window and the fast moving air dries the clothes - even towels within 24 hours.
@FrugalQueeninFrance
2 жыл бұрын
Thanks for sharing
@informedpantry6257
2 жыл бұрын
Overnight oats saves energy. No cooking required, or you can heat your oatmeal in the morning just enough to warm it up.
@FrugalQueeninFrance
2 жыл бұрын
Good advice
@KsoPlans
2 жыл бұрын
As I am a family of one, I turned off my hot water system and bought an electric camp shower and hot water urn. The urn takes less time to heat, less watts than the huge hot water system at my house and I can turn it in and off at the PowerPoint when I want to use it (my system was off peak and heated overnight so I had no control and couldn’t use it with my solar). Some consider it extreme but I have enough hot water for a lovely hot shower, fill two hot water bottles (it’s winter atm) and have extra for washing up in the kitchen. It cost me $167 for my set up, to get a smaller hot water system was going to be over $1000. I thought outside the box and I really want a tiny house in the future so this is perfect practice for living more simply. I have an awning over my backyard, so hang clothes outside during the day (even if it’s raining) and bring them in overnight. I rarely use my dryer. I hang my clothes on hangers so I just pop them over doors, curtain rods and door handles. I also have a triangle clothes holder that goes over your door and holds about 8 garments. I use this to hang my underwear & socks on a little round peg holder. Most if the time my clothes are dry the next day. Sheets and bedding can be placed over a table or shower etc. to dry. We mostly wash in cold water in Australia. I’ve been collecting rain water to use, plus the used water from my washer I save and use for flushing toilets. I just refill my cistern as it’s refilling. Using cold saves electricity. What I’ve learned really recently is to look at my consumption and count the cents. I still occasionally use my aircon for heat, but Instead if 30 mins, I do 15mins now. I lowered the degrees by 3 to 22. I still get the chill out of the air, my pups are happy and with my layers on, I warm up really fast using less than I used to. My electricity bill has already lowered and I have only been really making changes the last month. Seeing it in real time is motivating :0)
@jomoore2510
2 жыл бұрын
Here in my town in Pennsylvania, for my home gas company, we can choose to have “budget” billing. Which simply means I pay the same amount every month and in the winter when we use more gas for heat we still pay the same amount as summer. Basically it’s a years cost divided into 12 months. This is so helpful on a budget and winter prices are so high but we have planned by being on “budget billing” ! Such a help.
@FrugalQueeninFrance
2 жыл бұрын
Thanks for sharing
@lindagbukvic9441
2 жыл бұрын
Here in Ohio they call that "Even Billing" a good idea. It's based on what you used/paid last year. If you have overpaid, they will reimburse you in either November or December.
@patriciacargill4975
2 жыл бұрын
They do that in UK too. Main problem is that it's at least doubling monthly payments ,! Often more than people can afford
@gregsgirl23au
2 жыл бұрын
We wash in cold water and we live in a tropical climate with a rainy season in summer. So we have dehumidifiers and they work wonders when we need to dry our clothes on Airers. The water that gets collected in them goes onto the garden. I also use less detergent than what is recommended and our clothes are just as clean. We have been buying extras at the supermarket when things are on sale. If you like chickpeas stock up as there is going to be a shortage due to weather events and the war in Ukraine. Thank you for your tips, great video as always 😊
@patrice3603
2 жыл бұрын
Great topic for a video Jane and Mike! I have a dog that doesn’t handle cold weather that well so I bought him several different weight dog coats and a pair of winter dog boots to help keep him warm. I also have some lightweight sweatshirts for him for when he gets cold inside the house. If you don’t allow your pets on your furniture please give them a comfortable bed or pad to lay on. They get cold and their joints hurt just like us from laying on the hard cold floor during the winter. Don’t forget heat rises so the places they lay are often colder than you think especially overnight when the temperature drops. I even have a couple of extra blankets for my dog to snuggle up in, they stay in his beds. I hang my wet laundry up on hangers and place them on my shower curtain rod to air dry. If I know the garment might not stay on the hanger so well, I use my clothes pins (pegs) to make sure they stay on the hangers. Once they are dry I can just transfer them to the closet for storage. I have a standing rack to hold smaller articles of clothing to air dry like socks and underclothes. I have even hung my smaller washable carpets up to air dry using hangers with the clips built into them. To help retain heat in your home hang some quilts over your windows and doors. They’ll block the drafts and help hold in the heat. You can take some styrofoam insulation boards and cut them to fit into your window openings. Then take some fabric or bed sheets and make a case to slip the insulation sheets into to dress them up. They will be seen from outside your house so you’ll want them to look nice. Put those in your windows and they will definitely hold in the heat and block the cold. If you experience a very difficult time affording to heat your house and you have space in a larger room, put up a tent inside. You can sleep in the tent with your family to help everyone stay warm overnight. Indoor camping is fun for younger children. Fill hot water bottles with warm water to warm your bed before going to sleep at night. Place a bottle in the bed under the blankets and it will heat the bed and blankets so they aren’t so cold when you get into it at bedtime. You can heat a firebrick and wrap it in a towel to do the same thing. Just be careful because the brick will get very warm and could burn you. Firebricks are excellent for slowly radiating their heat into the space over time. You can heat them on a wood stove or in your oven if you are baking something. Just place the bricks in a pan or on the rack of the oven when you turn it on to preheat. After you are done baking, remove the pan or bricks and place them on a stable heat safe surface to allow them to release the heat they gathered in the oven or on the wood stove. You can also hang quilts or tarps over doorways or to divide up a larger room to make a smaller area in that room that will hold more heat in it. Close doors to rooms that you don’t need to heat to keep the heat in the areas that you do want to heat. Right now, while it’s Summertime in many places, look to purchase some solar rechargeable garden lights. You can put them in a sunny window to recharge and provide you with lights to use at night inside your home instead of using your electric lamps or lights. They are much safer with pets and children than to use a candle or oil lamp for lighting. You can stick them in a vase on the table, stick one in the bathroom etc to provide you with light to see but not increase your electric bill. Some styles of lights are designed to hang up on hooks that push into the ground so you could hang them up in a room or hallway to light those areas. If you heat with wood, take a bag with you when you go for a walk to pick up twigs, pine cones dried leaves etc. You can make individual bags of kindling to start your fires with and clean up your area as you walk. If you eat corn on the cob, save the cobs and dry them after you have eaten the corn. The dry cobs make excellent kindling.
@cathyb3790
2 жыл бұрын
I just recently bought a counter top convention toaster oven, 1500 wats, I have baked breads warmed meals and cooked a whole chicken in it , so much cheaper and way less heat in the summer ,I also use a slow cooker outside on the covered deck so no more heat in the hot house this summer, I live in Canada 🇨🇦
@FrugalQueeninFrance
2 жыл бұрын
Really good tip.
@ohmcintyre2067
2 жыл бұрын
Yes! As a one-person household, I haven’t turned on my “big oven” since last Christmas; my convection toaster oven does everything I need. I got one that has a bump-out in the back that accommodates round pans like a small pizza pan or large pie plate.
@angelikig.7172
2 жыл бұрын
We have a fireplace and we always buy and pay the woods in July or August …the oil for heat we buy in April or May,before the end of season
@IntentionAndAdventures
2 жыл бұрын
I am foraging berries and greens, growing tomatoes, and accepting garden excess from friends. I eat some now and freeze the rest for winter.
@FrenchyTaylor
2 жыл бұрын
To keep warm ( I live in northern europe with very low temperature during the winter) I make heating pad with round ris/ cherry pit ( I have a chery tree) and tea towel from the charity shop that you can warm in a couple of minutes in the microwave you can finde how to video on YT. I have like a long sleeve poncho made out of a fuzzy blanket from the charity shop that keep me warm when i knit during the winter. Have bought a oldfashion dutch oven to be able to use on the top of our woodburning stove for baking and chili and stuff like that. I have ask my adult children for their wishlist for this years christmas and buy the stuff second hand or on a discount. I have bought dobbelt all the tin food I could for the past 6 month so each time I need bake beans, I buy to, one for now one for the longtime pantry.
@FrugalQueeninFrance
2 жыл бұрын
Thanks Frenchy
@shivakat2297
2 жыл бұрын
Another suggestion is buying tea lights or candles with 6-8 hour burn time for nights. Tea lights just go out by themselves...no need to have to get up and blow them out. I also use small battery lanterns/oil lamps or light on my phone going room to room. I've lived in hurricane prone areas all my life and learned how to get by without electricity. If you unplug all appliances/TV's-especially cable boxes etc/lights keeping only fridges/freezers on you can save a lot of money.
@FrugalQueeninFrance
2 жыл бұрын
Great tips Shiva
@chantellewilliams4383
2 жыл бұрын
Great video! We've been preparing for winter since spring. Little by little. I've bought a heated throw (need to get another one as I will have a family member living with me over winter!) We've been buying slightly more food than normal such as rice, pasta, frozen veg and tinned items and storing away as we are lucky to have space to do so. I've also bought quite a few second hand jumpers for additional layers too. We have already agreed with family members to not buy eachother Xmas gifts. Got a few more things to prepare for but just doing these steps but by bit will make us all more prepared for winter. I always think of the Ant and the Grasshopper fable to help me prepare.
@FrugalQueeninFrance
2 жыл бұрын
Great to hear that and always good to hear from you.
@sharonkline6515
6 ай бұрын
When I had a house in Ca. We had a level pay plan. It worked great.
@jkazzie2521
2 жыл бұрын
Buy a quality thermos for storing boiled water or prepared tea and coffee. Boil the kettle in the morning and fill the thermos - it should keep water hot for several hours so you aren’t always boiling the kettle for a hot drink during the day.
@christineearl9499
2 жыл бұрын
Wonderful advice Jane! I live in a Victorian terraced house and I dry lots of washing on the bannisters, even towels dry quickly and jeans and duvet covers don't need ironing so that is a saving too. Love your videos.
@FrugalQueeninFrance
2 жыл бұрын
Thanks for sharing.
@tracycoleman2761
2 жыл бұрын
My employer provides showers at my workplace - I use those and not mine. I understand saves me about £4 per week Couple of hundred pounds a year
@veemcg3682
2 жыл бұрын
Yes thank you this was a useful video Jane. My kind brother William has built a lovely DIY garden room along the back of our very modest but cosy home and we use it all year round to shelter the house and reduce heating costs, grow our own herbs, dry laundry and read, sew or knit in the best of the daylight. I've been feeling very nervous and stressed. I am recovering from a long stay in hospital and still find most things difficult. We have a large extended family circle and I thought one thing I could do to try to feel some sense of control is prepare for Christmas and winter. I've begun to make gifts that will be useful for those I love and this is good therapy for me right now. Love Vera in Northern Ireland
@FrugalQueeninFrance
2 жыл бұрын
Thanks Vera
@jomoore2510
2 жыл бұрын
Jane this was such a practical video. I believe many can find it very helpful. Thank you so much!
@FrugalQueeninFrance
2 жыл бұрын
Thanks Jo
@gladyschandler6724
2 жыл бұрын
I've had a slow cooker for many years. Just purchased an air fryer for my son for his birthday. He cooked his morning potatoes & bacon together. I used for veggies for dinner.
@FrugalQueeninFrance
2 жыл бұрын
Air fryers are economical to use
@schrodingerssquirrel6973
2 жыл бұрын
Counter top cooking appliances are all I use. They're wonderful for saving energy!
@YorkshireGirlinDarwin
Жыл бұрын
Thank you, Jane ❤
@martapogribna6396
2 жыл бұрын
Draft-proofing your house can definitely help to cut the heating costs...
@gwenroireau6203
2 жыл бұрын
For those with children notebooks, pencils, crayons, markers will be needed. I have seen these at second hand shops as well as the dollar stores. Teachers gifts can be bought at the thrift shops as well. I have seen new mugs and desk sets for the teacher at great prices.
@michellevanderwesthuizen2534
2 жыл бұрын
We have rolling power outages at the moment. And may continue ( South Africa). So even an instapot or slow cooker needs to be plugged in. So I start it on the stove ( or gas stove) and put my evening meal in my wonderbag that does not require electricity. Best part no liquid evaporates and its piping hot when we open it this evening.
@FrugalQueeninFrance
2 жыл бұрын
Wonderbags are awesome
@anntaylor4247
2 жыл бұрын
Here in the UK, our monthly energy charge has doubled and we are not in a position to increase it. Currently, we are in credit. When shopping, we literally only buy what we need, no extras or treats etc. Finally, during the hot weather, we eat more cold food but use the microwave or slow cooker for anything that has to be cooked or heated up. Stay cool.
@FrugalQueeninFrance
2 жыл бұрын
The UK situation really does appear to be the most expensive it’s ever been. My best advice is prepare to heat a main room only
@carolynredinger439
2 жыл бұрын
I discovered last winter that I could get along without my furnace, even with temperatures well below zero fahrenheit. A heater each in the living room & bedroom kept me plenty warm. I took a page from the Victorians and put drapes up over doors and between rooms. This kept the main living area quite snug. I decided to go with oil radiators this coming winter and purchased them this past spring. I'm enjoying summer more knowing I'm set for winter!! I endorse your advice 100%! PS You've inspired me to line dry (something not often done since childhood). I don't do it in the basement as it's prone to damp. I have small racks for upstairs & the patio, but have purchased a retractable line for my garage. I can open doors for a breeze, and use it rain or shine.
@ohmcintyre2067
2 жыл бұрын
What a good idea about using the garage! I’ve been using a small line stretched across my back porch, but the garage would be perfect for when the weather gets bad. Thanks for the tip!
@nynkeinkerijager4013
2 жыл бұрын
My childern have their birthday in december and Januari. And in the Netherlands we celebrate sinterklaas(st .Nicolas) on the 5th of december. I only invest in good quality rots like playmobil and lego. I already have most gifts. I buy them when there is a good deal. I also bought playmobil on our holiday to London in may. The TK Maxx in Hounslow had a good over on playmobil for the daugther of my friend. We had to take the box apart to get it in the suitcase but was worth it. And I always boil a full pot in the elektric ketle and use the thermos botle to keep it hot. For the holidays I buy meat on clearens and frees it dit christmas. In the Netherlands we don 't have a culinairy traditions like the uk or France die christmas. We wat what we call gourmetten also known as raclette.
@FrugalQueeninFrance
2 жыл бұрын
Thanks for sharing
@rena4220
2 жыл бұрын
Excellent video and many excellent comments, too. I utilize many of the ideas mentioned. Can't think of anything to add except to include dried fruits such as raisins and cranberries in the pantry stock up. And shelf stable milk. I love your sincerity.
@michellestart2362
2 жыл бұрын
For my children I buy winter coats 2 sizes too big and get 2 years out of them. I make some of their clothes, I always use greaseproof paper to copy the patterns rather than cutting into them. That way I can use the pattern again and again as they grow. It seems I'm always mending something. I make gifts for my children's friends for their birthdays. It's much more personal and cheaper too. I feel very fortunate that my mum taught me to sew.
@cherylfindeisen6088
2 жыл бұрын
I will hang my clothes on their hanger and then use my shower rod to hold them while clothes dry. Thing that don’t hang I use clothespins on the hanger. I live in a dry humidity climate so the moisture from this is nice. Also next year my city will finally have some competition on electric companies. I’m not sure which ones or how to research them because I want to make sure if I switch I’m getting the best deals. Thanks for another amazing video! You really make me stop and think.
@katieq7210
2 жыл бұрын
Found a little oil filled radiator in my local charity shop recently Jane. £5 in perfect working order ...like new. I have it in my office now for when winter comes. I'll heat that area as I spend most of the day in there. Great video as always and some great tips in the comments.
@FrugalQueeninFrance
2 жыл бұрын
Fantastic!
@lin90210
2 жыл бұрын
I'm super lucky. I was able to stock up bit by bit these last weeks for cupboard type foods as I saw the prices go and know that it will only keep going up. Especially in October we will see food prices go up more once thr energy price cap goes up over 60%. With my gradual stock up it means later on I don't have to spend to buy those shelf stable goods.
@beverleybanyard2680
2 жыл бұрын
I am stocking up on staple foods, tins, pasta, rice etc to make space I have put shelving units in the spare bedroom.. I am filling the freezer with our own produce and things on offer. To offset the fuel costs I have kept my direct debit the same and built up a substantial credit on my electricity account. I am getting deliveries of wood for the wood burner now to go into the Winter with a full wood store. I already have heated blankets and hot water bottles. I have solar panels so have been cooking Winter meals with free electricity and putting them in the freezer. I started doing most of the above before the first fuel price hike in the UK earlier this year and we are due another big price rise in October. I wash our clothes on a shorter cycle and at a lower temperature. I am growing as much of our food as I can and either eating it now or processing it for the winter which in turn has freed up money to buy extra of the food I cannot grow. Good luck to everybody frugally doing the same.
@FrugalQueeninFrance
2 жыл бұрын
Well done for really thorough preparation
@anaveragemuppet
2 жыл бұрын
I’ve got my shed full of laundry detergent (plastic bottles so it’s safe if it gets damp) that I got on an incredible offer from Wilkinson’s. I’m not sure that it’ll last until the end of the winter but I’m hoping it will last until Christmas ish. I’ve got few cupboards but they’re large and hard to get to the back of as they go Behind appliances so I’ve filled that space with uht milk, cheap pasta sauces, tomato soup, beans and beans with sausages so we’ve got a lot to use up for the summer holidays as I know that taking the kids shopping means I end up buying loads of unnecessary items
@FrugalQueeninFrance
2 жыл бұрын
Good for shopping in advance so you don’t need to take the children with you. Good planning
@anaveragemuppet
2 жыл бұрын
@@FrugalQueeninFrance it has to be done! I’ve got enough basic food for us for the summer so this year I’m going to try not to buy them too much like I normally do
@sukigrice1841
2 жыл бұрын
I know I might look odd but I do find fingerless gloves worn about the house keep hands warm. A gillet over clothes also just feels that bit warmer. Charity shops often have cheap blankets and multiple layers on the bed keep you toasty. Hard to get out of bed though in the morning😂😂😂
@cherylverber7672
2 жыл бұрын
Already stocking up the best i can and hopefully will be buying an air fryer at the weekend I have money on my nectar card. Thanks for the reminder..even if its one or two extra items it will help out especially when items are on special buy extra like bleach, washing detergent and even polish it will all help as we move into the colder months.
@FrugalQueeninFrance
2 жыл бұрын
That’s all we can afford to do so we just do a bit
@momof2momof2
2 жыл бұрын
Oh yes, this is how I plan. I find that generally most expenses are pretty regular, so I know what to expect and when it will happen. I plan daily, weekly, monthly, bi yearly and yearly. It makes personal finance much more comfortable. Buy off season for whatever you can for the best prices for things like clothing, after holiday sales, etc.. Keep up a well stocked pantry of shelf stable foods including rice, pastas, canned foods, milk, flour and sugars, keep yeast in your fridge to make breads and treats. Buy extras of sale items and preserve. tfs 🥰🌞🌛💐☔💗✝
@johnmelissaziech6207
2 жыл бұрын
Lots of good ideas! I have always air-dried a lot of our clothing. It's a lot easier on clothes, especially if they have elastic, like underwear. I found an expensive brand wall hung, wooden clothes dryer that pulls out from the wall at the thrift store. It was new in the box, never used. It retailed for about $127. I paid $15 and it has paid for itself many many times! Air drying clothes in the winter also helps give off needed humidity in the dry winter.
@melanienicholson2834
2 жыл бұрын
For my limited budget I make sprouts kale and broccoli. overall cheap to make and a powerhouse of vitamins. I also stock up on lentils grains and beans. with the right spices they are super yummy. so no meat needed. I make and use personal cloth wipes, unpaper towels that I make out of scraps or old sheets from the thrift store. the list goes on and on. I believe that any food item a store sells you can make it. just look it up. I love everything bagles topping. I looked it up and it's much cheaper to make than buy.
@somersetgirl125
2 жыл бұрын
Our strategy has been to cut energy usage to the bone for spring, summer autumn when it’s easy and to save a pot of money for winter. We’re following many of your suggestions like in the kitchen using the oven as little as possible and running the washing machine at 20C. Also have turned down temp of hot water for showers to just above lukewarm. We also use a dehumidifier to keep the house from feeling damp as late autumn approaches which means we can use heating more sparingly. It’s also great for drying washing on those weeks when there isn’t a dry day.
@FrugalQueeninFrance
2 жыл бұрын
Thanks for sharing
@margaretthompson5491
2 жыл бұрын
Lots to think about here today. I use my halogen oven for lots of cooking. Stocking up on staples rice, pasta etc etc........ Keeping warm is always a problem in winter. I have arthritis which means my blood circulation is poor, so in cold weather i layer up and in summer i peel off the layers. We don't have winter and summer clothes, its the layers that count! great mid week chat x
@FrugalQueeninFrance
2 жыл бұрын
I use summer t shirts as under shirts in the winter and wear leggings under my jeans
@sandragerhardt5564
2 жыл бұрын
Feeling very grateful to live in Australia when I hear about the issues that winter brings in the northern hemisphere. In Queensland we are having quite a cold winter this year and I am dreading the heat of summer but we have solar to really help with our power bills. We have reverse cycle air conditioning in our home and we warm the rooms up as we need them. We are waking up to mornings of about 6 degrees where I live but the days get to about 20ish. I feel for your gardens with the heat you are having.
@FrugalQueeninFrance
2 жыл бұрын
It’s hot, especially in the afternoon
@isabelserrano6018
2 жыл бұрын
Hello Jane, your tip about fleece clothing is very good and something I already do, but I would add that I also wear an old fleece knee length housecoat on top when I go about my daily routine, one I don't get the other clothes dirty and as it old it's just for keeping warm in very cold temperatures in winter around the house as here in Portugal the majority of houses don't have central heating and our radiator only goes on around teatime. One thing we are very lucky with is that we have some 2000 plus hours of sunshine throughout the year, which in itself generates heat for drying clothes on the lines and the sun taking the sting from very low winter temp.
@FrugalQueeninFrance
2 жыл бұрын
You’re having a very hot summer this year
@isabelserrano6018
2 жыл бұрын
@@FrugalQueeninFrance yes unfortunately so, the temperature yesterday reached almost 46 degrees, it's unbearable.
@ninaturner7167
2 жыл бұрын
I get really dry skin and hands in winter so I’m stocking up on moisturer now.
@suellensellwood5854
2 жыл бұрын
Not aesthetically pleasing to some people but bubble wrap on the inside of your windows keeps the heat in. Spray the pane with soapy water and the cut to size bubble wrap will easily adhere. Quick to remove for summer and just wash the pane. Another heat retainer is the door snake. A fabric covered cylinder filled with dry sand etc that stops draughts under the doors. I use my pressure cooker to save electricity as it quickly cooks dried pulses or cheaper cuts of meat.
@paulinewoods5323
2 жыл бұрын
Good ideas again.
@ninajohnson6578
2 жыл бұрын
I have the opposite problem it is incredibly hot where I live. One thing I did was find and hang thick drapes on my windows. They keep my house cooler by keeping out the light and heat. But it works for the cold too.
@FrugalQueeninFrance
2 жыл бұрын
We use thermal curtains to keep the heat out
@michelehagerman216
2 жыл бұрын
I’m in the US and don’t have direct debit for my gas and electricity. I do, however, pay extra ahead, so I have a nice credit on my accounts. I’m single. I do buy extra canned goods (especially good soup) as I have a busy schedule and a can of soup for dinner keeps me from wanting to get carry out. I have been stocking up on toiletries and cleaning supplies as well. I don’t have a lot of storage space, but my antique bed is higher off the floor than modern beds so I have a lot of storage underneath.
@UKKazzie
2 жыл бұрын
Love your channel, Jane - Excellent tips from you and everyone else. I crocheted hand warmers/fingerless gloves so I can type and keep my hands warm when working from home or in the office. Made a few pairs for work colleagues as well as friends anc family from wool scraps. Some quick and easy tutorials here on YT. Really helps. Or you could just cut off the fingers of old pairs of gloves.
@FrugalQueeninFrance
2 жыл бұрын
I used them when I was working from home too.
@christinecrabb1911
2 жыл бұрын
I use eco egg wash balls, no detergent needed, loads of money saved 👍
@annkrull9894
2 жыл бұрын
I use dryer balls to cut drying times
@lisad6463
2 жыл бұрын
So inspiring, keep up what you’re doing, and thank you
@kerstinkiel5314
2 жыл бұрын
I always use washing powder or liquid rather than tablets..much easier to spread out and get a few more washes if you are running low. Also purchased a couple of warm cardigans in the sales which are now on. I still need to purchase a flask and a slow cooker which will be next month. Also look out for 2nd hand ski wear especially the thermal underlayers. salopettes can be extremely comfortable and cosy and asda used to sell them very cheap, people might have old sets on their wardrobe already ..wear them round the house not just for ski trips. Mary is adorable and glad the doggy bark is back at the end of your vids :)
@ruthiegross6718
2 жыл бұрын
Did you mention winterizing your home? I usually put up plastic sheets over my windows and tape it down with masking tape. I also saved Styrofoam (from a TV) to place over the windows inside the house. You can also use bubblewrap to insulate windows,
@cherrycross1504
2 жыл бұрын
Make door draught excluders and warm slippers
@roxanne533
2 жыл бұрын
In the winter, I find it helpful to put a hot water bottle at the foot of my bed, or sometimes I use a sock filled with rice that I put into the microwave for three or four minutes. But, I found I liked the hot water bottle better because in the winter the rice seems to absorb the humidity. It keeps my feet toasty warm and I don't need to heat the room as much.
@Taaleedee
2 жыл бұрын
I live in a very deprived area - high unemployment and low wages. Our food bank at the SA is getting busier each week. Food donations are not keeping up with demand. The rents in my area are ridiculously high with a shortage of social housing. The local homeless shelter is full and there are people sleeping in shop doorways. Very tough times ahead. Pauline in Kent UK.
@FrugalQueeninFrance
2 жыл бұрын
It really worries me Nannie, so many people, including pensioners are going to be pushed into poverty, eat or heat?
@rs70289
2 жыл бұрын
I think a lot less people are donating to food banks, that's certainly the case in my local area.
@FrugalQueeninFrance
2 жыл бұрын
@@rs70289 People can’t give what they don’t have.
@rs70289
2 жыл бұрын
Very true, it's a very difficult and sad time for so many people
@Taaleedee
2 жыл бұрын
@@FrugalQueeninFrance We are coming up to an expensive time for families - children transferring to a new school or just needing new uniform due to growth. Footwear is expensive especially if a child is heavy on shoes - one of my Daughters got through shoes faster than her brothers. Most families are just getting by even with two parents working after paying for child care.
@charlenebrissette3348
2 жыл бұрын
In case the grid goes down, I am concentrating non things I can stock up on that doesn’t go in the freezer, canning more too.
@angelikig.7172
2 жыл бұрын
The worst weather here in Greece,in central Macedonia i live,is also January and February….
@josephinesage8301
2 жыл бұрын
Excellent Jane
@mikomasterson3319
2 жыл бұрын
I live in the Mid-Atlantic U.S.A. We have very hot summers, but this year I bought a box fan and run that and I have not used air conditioning all summer. As a result my bills have been very low this summer. I have not been using my oven all summer to keep from heating my home up and that has really been helping. I cook all my meals on the stovetop. If I can find space for it, I want to buy a toaster oven, which you can use as a regular oven to cook meat, roast vegetables or even cakes and cookies, and again, at a fraction of the cost and it does not heat your home up as much in the summer. As for winter, I like the idea of heated throws and fleece pajamas. I have a weighted blanket that was a gift from work. It keeps me very warm.
@sarahees891
2 жыл бұрын
All great ideas and a really good video. One thing I think is shop your own house first when you think you/your kids need something especially when it comes to clothese/shoes/stationery etc. Many of us have so much that we forget what we have and everything doesn't have to be perfect. For example, my kids will want new files and pens etc in September for 6th form/school, but if we collect what we have in each of their bedrooms, I doubt we will need anything for the rest of this year. Also, when my kids identify things they need longer term I get them to add it to an online wishlist so that if grandparents ask for ideas at Christmas or birthdays, there is something useful on there. I appreciate we are lucky to have grandparents who can afford to be generous like that.
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