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How to save money by “going green”

Would you like to save the planet and put some green back in your pocket? It’s really easy. By making some small changes in your habits, you can easily do both. Here are some ways.

Even if now is not the time for you to get a new hybrid vehicle, you can still save money.

• Take anything that is not needed out of the trunk. 
• Drive the speed limit. 
• Avoid idling and jack rabbit starts.
• Keep tires properly inflated.
• Be sure to keep up with oil changes, tune-ups, and other car maintenance.
• Combine errands.
• Use cruise control for highway driving. 
• Carpool as much as possible.
• Take public transportation.
• Ride a bike or walk if you are going a short distance.
• Make note of which gas stations have the best gas prices in your area.

Gas prices are not the only thing going up. Utility bills are also increasing. 

• Install low-flow showerheads and faucets.
• Fix leaky faucets and drippy showers.
• Wash clothes in cold water.
• Unplug charging devices when not in use.
• Use compact fluorescent bulbs in all lighting fixtures.
• Upgrade to Energy Star appliances when it is time to replace older models.
• Install a programmable thermostat. If that is not possible, be sure to manually reset the heat or air conditioning when you will be gone and at night.
• Turn off any lights that are not needed.
• Seal off any drafts around doors and windows.

Rediscover how things were done before we had modern conveniences.

• Line dry your laundry.
• Plant a garden.
• Get a rain barrel. Use the water for plants and gardens.
• Get a wood stove to supplement heating.
• Use baking soda and borax for cleaning and deodorizing.
• White vinegar is also good for cleaning, deodorizing, and getting rid of mold.
• Replace mothballs with cedar blocks or shavings. Another alternative to mothballs is to fill cheesecloth bags with herbs such as cloves, rosemary, eucalyptus, bay leaves, and lavender.
• Bay leaves also get rid of spiders and meal moths.
• Use dishtowels instead of paper towels.
• Use old T-shirts and cotton socks for dusting and polishing.

Do you have any other green money-saving ideas to share?