Unfortunately, we all have a habit that’s deeply engrained–running to the store for EVERYTHING.

The next time you have dry skin, check your kitchen cabinets. Real mayonnaise or vegetable shortening work wonders, even for your face. They are safe and cost a tiny fraction of highly perfumed lotions that also contain drying agents. Cracked fingers or feet? Rub in petroleum jelly and pull on cotton socks (yes, you can wear them on your hands too).

Don’t toss those scratched glasses. Rub them with furniture polish and see if those scratches don’t disappear. Furniture polish works well. Don’t shop for a name brand if you already have something similar at home.

Baking soda does a fantastic job in dozens of ways: as a deodorizer, non-scratch cleanser, a bath additive for rashes, unclogging drains, and so much more. Entire books have been dedicated to this one product alone. So, why do we need a cabinet filled with commercial cleaners when we can get so much done for less than a dollar a box? The next time you see stains in your sink, pour in a small amount and rub clean with a soft cloth. You’ll be amazed.

Use white vinegar in water to clean glass with newspapers instead of paper towels. Your mirrors and windows will sparkle and no towel waste to go to the landfill.

Develop a can-do attitude about fixing things. Use standard household items for many jobs. We have been hypnotized by the brilliant marketing campaigns funded by corporate millions. 2009 is the year of freedom from marketing addiction. Your grandmother she handled her household challenges without buying a different shiny bottle for each job in the house.

How do you pinch pennies? Share your secrets with us, and we’ll tell you ours. Please join us at http://PainlessPennyPinching.com where saving doesn’t hurt.