30 Days Of Tips

The Tightwad Trainer has returned! A month late & a month more knowledgable, I will bring to the table 30 days of tips! Why? Because everybody loves tips. Because tips are easy to implement. Because tips are short & easy to read. Because I want to reward the tightwads-in-training who haven't removed me from their bookmarks this summer.

Tip #1: Fall in love with handwashing again. This method is great for small loads & helps break the dependency on the automatic washer, plus, you don't have to trek up & down the basement steps. And since it's an organic, hands-on activity, it's more fun, too.

First, figure out what container you're going to use for washing. Ideas include small plastic wastebaskets, empty plastic cat litter containers, plastic mop buckets, plastic paint buckets. Add water, detergent or soap of your choice & small load. Swish with your hands or a long spoon. Let sit for at least a couple hours. Next day, swish again & let sit a bit. Dump out water. Rinse. A laundry basket can be a great container for rinsing. Wring out wet clothes. Hang to dry or lay on heating vent in winter.