For some people, saving money is a way of life. While many love to splurge on nice things, cheapskates are always looking for ways to stretch every dollar, no matter how much money they have.
You’ve probably met someone who pinches pennies. These frugal folks are always hunting for the best deals and finding clever ways to save money. They get a thrill out of making every purchase count.
Everyone loves a freebie, whether it’s a complimentary pen, a free coffee, or a tiny shampoo bottle. If you’ve never encountered a serious penny-pincher, buckle up. Kids of thrifty parents have shared some of the wildest stories from their homes. Here’s what they had to say.
1. Dad’s Clever Soap Trick
u/[deleted]: When my dad moved into his new house, he had a company demonstrate an under-sink water filter using a bar of soap. He called four more companies for the same demo, just to get free soap. He never intended to install a filter. His frugality only grows with age, but I didn’t stop him.
2. The Paper Towel Dilemma
u/TheCommonStew: My dad hoards paper towels. Even at 21, I need his permission to use them. Growing up, I thought they cost $100 a roll because he was so protective of them. He always buys the cheapest options, which often break, costing him more in the long run. Once, my girlfriend used a whole roll to clean a milk spill. The shock on his face made me feel guilty, but he didn’t scold her.
3. Dad’s Extreme Savings
u/notronbro: My dad hangs clothes outside year-round to save on electricity, even in winter. He rummages through our trash for “valuables” and is obsessed with finding the cheapest gas. Once, we spent 30 minutes driving around for the best price. He even rolls down hills in neutral to save fuel and limits our fast food orders to the cheapest items.
4. The Return Policy Master
u/halfadash6: My dad exploits Costco’s return policy, even returning an eight-year-old outdoor furniture set. It was weather-worn and broken, but Costco accepted it, and he bought a new set with the refund. Unbelievable but true.
5. Grandma’s Frugal Feats
u/Acetylene: As a kid, I spent summers with my frugal grandparents. We used “good” napkins (not from restaurants) only for guests. Grandma only dined out if she could get something extra, like restaurant napkins or food. She avoided places without salad bars and was banned from several Sizzlers for overusing their amenities.
6. Bulk Toilet Paper Savings
u/Askin_Real_Questions: My dad discovered a store selling industrial-sized toilet paper rolls and moved us there. They were like having four regular rolls in one. It was embarrassing to have friends over with such huge rolls.
7. Grandma’s Lifetime Guarantee
u/stone_opera: My grandma set up her wedding registry at Sears in the late 1940s, when items came with a lifetime guarantee. She kept every box and warranty. Two years ago, we got a new iron from Sears using her 1940s paperwork. Her thriftiness means she hasn’t bought new appliances in over 60 years. I sometimes wonder if this is why Sears is struggling—lots of thrifty old ladies like her using lifetime guarantees.
8. Dad’s Budget House
u/InVultusSolis: My dad’s extreme thriftiness led him to buy a $89,000 house in 1947 instead of a better $110,000 one. The house was unfinished, with unique doors and windows, asbestos siding, no kitchen counters or drawers, and plywood floors. His “savings” led to higher long-term costs.
9. Beating the Heat on a Budget
u/cerem86: In hot Georgia summers, my dad wouldn’t turn on the AC until it was over 100°F. He used Styrofoam pads in windows and doors to save on cooling costs. Our town had a free spring water source, and my dad would fill 32 five-gallon bottles there, even though others were just trying to get a drink.
10. Hidden Inheritance
u/deleted user: My parents had nice things, but I didn’t. They took my inheritance after my grandma died and only gave me a $50 Walmart gift card yearly. They bought luxury cars and vacationed in the Maldives. One day, while they were on a cruise, I received a letter from my real dad, who had reclaimed my inheritance. He invited me to meet and take back what was rightfully mine.
Being frugal means making every dollar count, but sometimes it’s nice to spend money on loved ones. It’s not about spending a lot but showing you care with a thoughtful treat or gift.
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