I really like the idea of getting the maximum result from minimum input. That’s why i’m such a big fan of permaculture gardening. I was excited to see someone put this principle into practice when it comes to saving money. Here are the 20 things that the simple dollar lists for you to do in fifteen minutes or less to save money (i think my favorite is the homemade laundry detergent). Many are common sense, but its good to be reminded.

1. Clip coupons from the Sunday newspaper or trawl the internet for more
2. Write a grocery list (and stick to it when you shop)
3. Check the air pressure in all of your car tires and fill appropriately
4. Hang clothes up to dry instead of using the dryer
5. Go through the house and turn off all electrical devices you’re not using
6. Make your own meal instead of buying take-out or eating out
7. Do routine maintenance tasks around your home (change the furnace filter, etc.)
8. Make your own laundry detergent
9. Replace light bulbs with CFLs
10. Install a programmable thermostat
11. Plant and maintain a small vegetable garden
12. Sell off clutter that you don’t need and don’t use any more
13. Read through your community calendar for activities of interest
14. Drive at 65 or under, even on the interstate
15. Basic hygiene and health: wash your hands, drink lots of water, etc.
16. Prepare a meal (or a few meals) to stick in the freezer for easy cooking later
17. Take care of small financial tasks that you’ve been putting off (protesting fees, requesting a lower rate on your credit card, switching checking accounts, setting up a 401(k), setting up a Roth IRA, etc.)
18. Clean your car’s air filter
19. Learn how to sew and mend things like buttons, extending the life of clothing
20. Attend a garage sale instead of flying off to the mall