101 Ways You’re Probably Wasting Money — and How to Stop

Here at The Penny Hoarder, we definitely subscribe to the idiom that a penny saved is a penny earned. After all, the easiest money you’ll make is the money you already have. So we’re doing a giant round-up of our favorite ways to save more money by wasting less.

Whether you’re spending money on streaming services you don’t watch or wasting perfectly good food by accident, choose a few of the following ways to stop wasting money this month.

And remember, even small changes in spending habits can add up to extra money in your bank account.

101 Ways You’re Wasting Money Without Realizing It

Ending every month without enough money to pay the bills? See if some of the following bad habits are costing you big bucks and what you can do instead to eliminate financial waste.

Ways You’re Wasting Money in the Kitchen

1. Keeping Old, Inefficient Appliances

For those folks whose fridge is so old it’s officially retro now, it’s time to go new. You might think you’re saving cash by kicking the can down the road on an expensive new appliance, but those old models are big-time energy suckers.

2. Rinsing Dishes Before Putting Them in the Dishwasher

Resist scrubbing off that caked-on food. That’s your dishwasher’s job. In fact, rinsing dishes can make your dishwasher less efficient, and you’ll use significantly more water. Step away from the sponge and use the time you save to argue with your spouse about how to load the dishwasher properly instead.

3. Using Plastic Bags for Everything

We get it. It’s easy to reach for that box of plastic baggies. But you probably have a pile of Tupperware or glassware that’ll do the job just fine. Plastics don’t just waste money — they have an outsized environmental impact, too.

4. Getting a New Cup Every Time You’re Thirsty

For large families, having cups hanging around on every surface isn’t just a clutter issue. All those cups rack up additional costs every time you run your dishwasher. Instead, label cups and use the same one throughout the day.

5. Reaching for Paper Towels

Paper towel use is a bad habit for most American households, where we spend as much as $20 a month on eight or more rolls. Paying extra to mop up messes with a disposable towel seems silly when there are plenty of cheap, reusable alternatives.

Ways You’re Wasting Money in the Bathroom

6. Buying Expensive Personal Care Products

Slathering your face with $100 creams is probably putting a sizable dent in your credit card balance. Consider scaling back and adding lower-cost alternatives to your beauty regime, like a store brand with the same active ingredients.

7. Skipping Dental Hygiene

It happens to everyone. You come home exhausted and don’t have the energy to scrub your face or brush your teeth. But the cost of cavities, which can run anywhere from $150-$1,100 per filling, should get you up out of bed.

8. Opting for Single-Use Disposables

Take a moment to consider how much extra cash you shell out for single-use personal care items like disposable razors, face wipes, and tampons. Most of these items have reusable alternatives that are better for your wallet and the environment.

9. Using Too Much Toilet Paper

This is a sensitive topic that might rub you the wrong way, but you’re probably using too much toilet paper. Just like paper towels, Americans are one of the leading countries in yearly toilet paper consumption. Try cutting back or consider getting a bidet.

Ways You’re Wasting Money at the Pharmacy

10. Buying Name-Brand Prescription Drugs

You’ve probably heard this one before, but it’s worth repeating. There are many generic medications that provide the same results as brand-name drugs. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if one is available before you get your script filled.

11. Forgetting to Shop Around Online

In addition to generics, there are many other ways to get affordable medications. Do comparison shopping online at sites like Mark Cuban’s Cost Plus Drug Company or GoodRx to see if you can snag a better deal.

12. Leaving Money in Your FSA

Unlike health savings accounts, flexible spending accounts usually don’t roll funds over into the new year. Make sure you’re reading the fine print on which FSA-eligible costs your health insurance doesn’t cover.

13. Paying for Flu Shots

If you’re paying for flu shots or other required vaccines, you’re throwing money away. Drug stores like CVS and Rite Aid offer free vaccinations at no cost with most insurance. Plus, staying healthy could save you from lost wages and productivity if you fall ill.

Ways You’re Wasting Money on Clothing

14. Washing Clothes in Hot Water

Let’s tie up some loose ends here and clarify that if you’re washing your clothes in hot water, you’re not just wasting energy and water. You’re also putting your clothes through the proverbial ringer and shortening their lifespan, which will cost you later.

15. Adding Too Much Detergent to a High-Efficiency Washing Machine

If you bought a fancy high-efficiency washing machine, you’re probably adding too much detergent. Seriously. Double-check the manufacturer instructions before your next big pour to see if you should scale back.

16. Buying Dry Clean-Only Fabrics

That silk blouse might be on sale, but if you can’t wash it on the delicate cycle, it comes with a hidden price tag — the cost of dry cleaning. Before you splurge, check the garment care instructions and decide if it’s really worth the hassle.

17. Not Treating Stains Right Away

Accidents happen. But when it comes to treating stains, you can mitigate the damage by treating them as soon as possible. Better Homes & Gardens explains how to handle every kind of “oops” on every type of fabric, from red wine on carpets to Sharpie on your favorite T-shirt.

18. Using Fabric Softener Sheets

Fabric softener sheets seem like one of life’s necessities, but these fragrant disposables can be bad for the environment, your dryer, and your wallet. Use wool dryer balls instead, which are good for about 1,000 loads or two to five years’ worth of laundry.

19. Buying New Clothes

The ultimate impulse purchases can be new clothes, but they can really drain your savings account. Instead, opt for a seasonal trip to your local second-hand clothing store to score gently used finds that’ll fill the gaps in your wardrobe.

Ways You’re Wasting Money on Utilities

20. Subscribing to Cable or Satellite TV

Still, paying for cable or satellite TV? How very ’90s of you. Cutting the cord and opting into streaming services means you can carve out big savings in your utility bills. Just keep in mind that you may lose that savings if you sign up for too many streaming services.

21. Paying for Phone Service

No, we’re not talking about your smartphone. Some folks (about 25% of US households) are still footing the bill for a landline. A lot of times, it comes with a package deal that includes cable, which is another good incentive to cut the cord.

22. Failing to Invest in a Smart Thermostat

Smart thermostats cost more upfront, but the monthly savings on your heating and cooling bills add up fast. You can also use the Energy Star rebate finder to locate incentive programs for purchasing and installing smart thermostats.

23. Incurring Data Overage Charges

Blowing past data caps with your internet service provider can be a costly mistake. Many providers issue initial warnings and then start applying overage charges. Shop around for an internet provider that doesn’t have data caps like Google Fiber.

24. Sticking with Old-School Light Bulbs

Maybe you think incandescent lights have more character, but how much is that old-school glow costing you? Energy efficiency experts say switching from incandescent to LED bulbs adds up to $225 per year in savings.

25. Letting Phantom Electricity Siphon Your Power

Some vampiric electronic devices are sources of phantom electricity usage in your home, sucking energy even when they’re turned off. Unplug TVs, coffee makers, microwave ovens, laptops, and even cell phone chargers to get rid of the ghosts of electric bills past.

26. Not Replacing Old Windows

The U.S. Department of Energy estimates those old, leaky windows are responsible for 25-30% of your heating and cooling costs. Ouch. Because raising the sash on new windows is expensive, homeowner rebates are available to help with the upgrade.

Ways You’re Wasting Money Around the House

27. Ignoring Water Leaks

It’s just a little drip, right? While you might be tempted to pop a bucket underneath the sink and forget it, remember that water damage from ongoing leaks can cause long-term mold problems. Even if you’re not risking damage, letting a toilet run will show up on your water bill eventually.

28. Buying the Extended Warranty

Extended warranties sound responsible, but most consumers don’t need them. Manufacturer’s warranties often cover parts and labor on appliances and devices for the first year to protect buyers from design flaws or faulty factory work.

29. Using Expensive Cleaning Supplies

Almost every cleaning product on the shelf can be replaced with a few simple ingredients from your kitchen or first-aid cabinet — and a little elbow grease. You can make DIY cleaning supplies from simple ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, lemon juice, and rubbing alcohol.

30. Keeping a Disorganized House

No judgment. We’ve all had times we thought something was lost and bought a replacement, only to have it turn up weeks or months later. But if you find that’s happening often, flex some organization skills and tackle the chaos.

31. Trying to DIY Everything

Sure, you can save money doing some home repairs yourself. But should you? There are some things best left to the pros. That’s especially true if it involves plumbing, wiring, or heating and cooling.

Ways You’re Wasting Money Outside

32. Expensive Lawn Care Services

All those companies that promise a green expanse of lawn also charge pretty steep monthly maintenance fees and can waste money. You don’t need a green thumb to learn how to fertilize, mow, and treat your own lawn.

33. Paying for Pest Control

Depending on the kind of infestation, you can skip the monthly maintenance fees because DIY pest control might be more than adequate. There are some exceptions that warrant a call to a professional, like destructive termites, notoriously difficult-to-kill cockroaches or rats.

34. Forgetting to Trim Back the Trees

Keeping trees and tall hedges trimmed is about more than curb appeal. Branches hanging over your roof or near windows can cause property damage during storms. And if your tree falls into your neighbor’s yard, you might be liable for damages.

Look at your siding and see where trees and shrubs may be too close. The extra moisture and scraping from branches can affect your siding, leading to costly repairs down the road.

35. Mowing Your Lawn Wrong

Believe it or not, there’s a “right” way and a “wrong” way to mow your lawn. And, contrary to urban legend, it’s less about mowing patterns (think spiral vs. checkerboard) than it is about varying your approach each time you mow.

36. Not Planting a Garden

Even if you don’t have a yard, you can use an outdoor space like a deck or balcony to do vertical gardening. Find out which plants grow well in your region and will thrive in the space you have.

Ways You’re Wasting Money on Groceries

37. Buying More Food Than You’ll Eat

In the U.S., it’s estimated between 30 to 40% of the food supply is wasted. Most of it is expiring in your fridge or behind the scenes at restaurants before it can be consumed. Be realistic about what you’ll actually use before it goes bad.

38. Using Bottled Water

Still buying pallets of bottled water? You’re not just wasting cash but participating in the proliferation of plastics, which take several hundred years to break down. Get a refillable water bottle instead and pocket the savings while helping the planet.

39. Paying for Grocery Delivery

It’s convenient, but getting groceries dropped at your door comes with a cost. If you’ve gotten addicted to the weekly visit from Instacart, tally up how much those delivery fees are costing per month. The answer might surprise you.

40. Paying Warehouse Membership Fees

Bulk warehouses have deep discounts, but they offset those savings with a membership fee. And for small families or couples, buying in bulk isn’t always cost-effective.

41. Not Doing Meal Prep and Planning

One of the best ways to eliminate food waste in your own fridge is to have a meal plan and stick to it. Make a monthly menu, and don’t stray from your shopping list when you walk the aisles.

42. Relying on Meat for Every Meal

No one is saying you should give up meat altogether. But relying on meat products to fill your plate every night can be a recipe for a ballooning grocery bill. You could save up to 14% on groceries with a flexitarian approach where you switch out meat with several vegetarian meals every week.

43. Shopping When Hungry

We’ve all done it. There’s nothing in the cupboards, so you get desperate and head to the grocery store. And, of course, you buy too much food. When you’re hungry, everything looks delicious. Grab yourself a quick bite before you shop to curb impulse buying.

44. Incorrectly Storing Fruits and Vegetables

Making the most of the food you already have in your fridge is an easy way to reduce waste. And there’s a proper way to store everything, from fresh herbs to avocados.

45. Forgetting to Eat Your Pantry

Even if the fridge is empty, you probably have more meals sitting in your pantry than you realize. Take stock of your staples and make a plan to stretch your food supplies for a few more days.

Ways You’re Wasting Money on Your Computer or Smartphone

46. Hanging on to Ghost Subscriptions

Those auto-renew annual subscriptions can really sneak up on your checking account. And unfortunately, you never seem to get the notification until you’ve already been charged. Take an audit of your subscriptions and ditch the ones you’re not using.

47. Getting Sucked into In-Game Purchases

Games are designed to entice you to pay for in-app purchases. Special perks and boosters to help you win the game are usually behind a paywall. To keep yourself from giving into temptation, turn off in-app purchases in your settings.

48. Forgetting to Hit the Unsubscribe Button

Free trials. Sneak peek sales. You visit once to check out something you saw on social media, and websites flood your inbox with special offers. Just hit unsubscribe to avoid falling into the marketing trap that’s been set for you.

49. Buying the New Gadget Every Year

You might want to impress people by always sporting the latest iPhone or iWatch, but the difference between models doesn’t always justify the price tag.

50. Not Jumping on the Wi-Fi

How often have you toggled off Wi-Fi because the connection sucked and then forgot to jump back on later? If you have unlimited data, that’s not a big deal. If not, you could be running up data charges.

Ways You’re Wasting Money When Shopping

51. Engaging in Impulse Shopping

Scrolling the internet can be a costly pastime, especially if you’re prone to springing for impulsive purchases. To avoid temptation, try removing shopping apps from your smartphone to save yourself from credit card debt.

52. Not Claiming the Rebate

While that $20 rebate on an appliance or an electronic likely won’t help you reach your financial goals, it’s also silly to leave money on the table. Save your receipts and file them quickly to ensure you get in before the deadline.

Don’t stop at the advertised rebates — get cash back on all your purchases. A free site and desktop extension called Rakuten works with just about every online store you shop at, and they can make sure you get some cash back every time you buy — up to 15% cashback.

53. Buying Because It’s on Sale or You Have a Coupon

It’s a great deal, but do you actually need it? Learning to ask yourself tough questions and to take a cooling-off period before expensive — or even small — purchases is always a smart idea.

54. Paying for Shipping

If you couldn’t find a code for free shipping, look harder. Most sites offer incentives for free shipping if your order exceeds a certain dollar amount. And if you can’t find enough for your cart to avoid shipping costs, then pop into a local store instead or wait until you do.

55. Not Buying Big-Ticket Items in the Off-Season

There is a season for everything, and that includes shopping. Did you know the best time to buy a TV is in January before the new models come out? Or that you should spring for patio furniture in October to get the best prices?

There’s pretty much a best time to buy everything if you have the time to be patient.

Ways You’re Wasting Money Going Out

56. Saying Yes to Every Social Event

Learning how to say no to your friends and family isn’t just emotionally healthy — it can be the key to financial health, too. Next time you get invited to an expensive outing, feel empowered to say “pass.” Your wallet will thank you.

57. Going to the Bar

Why step out to a noisy, crowded bar when you can stir up your own drinks for less at home? If you overindulge, you’ll waste even less money by falling into bed instead of calling for a ride.

58. Buying Expensive Gifts

Nobody wants to turn up at a birthday party empty handed, but you also don’t need to give your debit card a workout. That includes during the holidays when Americans spend nearly $1,500 on gifts. Cheap or free gifts can be just as nice.

59. Going to the Movies Often

Ditch the high-priced ticket, and stream the next blockbuster from home. Most movie aficionados have a fair to excellent TV and stereo system at home. The perks, like bottomless snacks and sprawling across the couch, are priceless. If you do go out, be strategic and find cheap movie tickets.

60. Eating Out Frequently

A nice dinner once in a while to celebrate a special occasion isn’t a problem, but eating out several times a week adds up. No time to cook? Buy convenience foods like already chopped veggies and marinated meats to cut down on prep time.

Ways You’re Wasting Money on Your Car

61. Paying Too Much for Car Insurance

If there is one thing you’re probably paying too much for, it’s auto insurance. Whether you’ve been with the same carrier a long time or there are a few accidents on your record, shopping around for car insurance can really pay off.

62. Buying the Extended Warranty for Your Car

Car buyers get sucked into purchasing extended warranties all the time, but they’re usually unnecessary. Studies show that most car owners spend more on protection with extended warranties than they ever would have spent on repairs.

63. Opting for a New Car

New cars are very shiny and enticing, but they can be a waste of money. Many depreciate significantly as soon as you drive them off the lot. A used car may work better for your wallet.

64. Racking Up Speeding Tickets

In a fast-paced modern world, it’s easy to feel like you have to keep your pedal to the metal. But that speed comes at a premium and places you at greater risk of a costly and life-threatening accident, higher insurance rates, and lower fuel efficiency.

65. Driving on Bad Tires

When was the last time you checked your tire pressure? And what about the treads? Driving around on bad tires could cost you 20 to 30% of your gas consumption.

66. Not Doing Routine Car Maintenance

Delaying oil changes and other routine maintenance can have costly consequences. It pays to keep your fluids topped off and to take your car in when the check engine light cycles on. You can even DIY basic car maintenance.

67. Using Premium Gas

Premium isn’t always better. Many cars run perfectly fine on basic unleaded gas, which is one way to save on gas. However, luxury and high-performance engines prefer premium, so check the car manufacturer’s recommendations before you fill up.

68. Missing Out on Rewards at the Pump

If you really rack up mileage, you might as well get rewarded for it. Many stations, from Exxon to Maverick, have gas rewards programs that give you cents off every gallon and other perks like price matching.

Ways You’re Wasting Money At Work

69. Not Claiming a 401(k) Match

When your employer offers to match for your retirement savings, run, don’t walk. A full match is great, but every little bit helps. Make sure you’re contributing enough to maximize your company’s 401(k) match because it’s basically like a 3% salary raise.

70. Not Taking Career Advancement Opportunities

Your mother would be disappointed to hear you’re not living up to your earning potential. But seriously, there are high-demand skills like managing people or mastering a new language that can help maximize your salary and open up new professional opportunities.

71. Skipping the Free Coffee

If you’re still schlepping it into the office on the regular, don’t forget there’s usually free coffee and other stuff in the break room. That means you can finally ditch that expensive coffee shop latte you’ve been sipping.

72. Not Asking for a Raise

Are you too shy to speak up about getting a raise? Learn to advocate for yourself, because a survey found that 70% of employees who ask for a raise get one. This guide can walk you through how to ask for a raise.

Ways You’re Wasting Money on Taxes

73. Forgetting to Claim Deductions and Credits

We’re not suggesting you skimp on your taxes, but there are plenty of perfectly legal ways to squeeze more out of your refund, even if you don’t itemize. Refer to the IRS website to make sure you’re maximizing earned income tax credits.

74. Claiming Exempt Income as Taxable

There’s not much income the IRS isn’t interested in taxing, but make sure you’re clear on what you don’t have to claim. This includes child support and crowdsourced funding.

75. Not Tracking Mileage

In a few states, companies are required to reimburse you for mileage if you’re traveling for business reasons. And if you own your business or are a freelancer or independent contractor, you can usually claim work-related mileage on your taxes.

76. Paying to File Your Taxes

If you’re paying to file your taxes, you’re doing it wrong. With the exception of some states that have processing fees associated with filing taxes online, there are plenty of ways to file taxes for free.

Ways You’re Wasting Money at the Bank

77. Purchasing Cashier’s Checks

Banks usually charge between $10 to $15 for cashier’s checks, but if your account meets a certain minimum balance, they may waive the bank fees. Next time, ask the teller if you qualify, if your account provides free checks, or if there’s a cheaper way to make a payment such as an ACH transfer.

78. Getting Charged Late Fees or Overdraft Charges

When your check or payment “bounces,” your bank may charge you overdraft fees. Overdraft fees run anywhere from $35 or more per transaction, though many banks no longer charge overdraft fees.

79. Paying Bank Fees

Paying for the privilege of parking your pennies at the bank is crazy talk. Look for bank accounts that don’t front-load their checking and savings accounts with fees. Hey, you might even get a bonus for opening an account.

80. Racking Up Credit Card Interest

Your credit card requires you to make minimum payments every month to maintain good credit. Otherwise, your credit card interest rate can increase, and you’ll have to pay more for less. If you carry a balance, you’ll be out of more money for interest, too.

Ways You’re Wasting Money on Travel

81. Paying Baggage Fees

Cramming your oversized duffle into an overhead bin while other passengers look on in dismay isn’t the only way to avoid baggage fees. Multiple airlines offer free checked bags as part of benefits programs or mileage clubs, among other airline freebies.

82. Opting for Rental Car Insurance

When you arrive at the counter disconcerted and exhausted, they always ask if you want to pay extra money to add rental car insurance. Just say no because most of the time, your car insurance covers you even when you drive a rental car. If you’re not sure, call your insurance agent before you travel.

83. Not Earning Travel Rewards

Every time you take to the friendly skies, you could be earning miles and other perks. Most airlines offer free programs and even credit cards that help earn mileage.

84. Buying Travel Insurance

Travel insurance sometimes is a smart idea, but not for every situation or destination. Your credit card may already protect you from some travel-related risks, and any claims surrounding coronavirus or pre-existing conditions are usually not eligible for coverage.

85. Not Traveling During Shoulder Season

During peak season, hotel rooms and flights come at a premium. But as soon as the crowds thin and shoulder season starts, more affordable rates pop up.

Ways You’re Wasting Money When Buying a Home

86. Buying Mortgage Insurance

Home buyers are usually required to buy private mortgage insurance if they put down less than 20% of the purchase price. The best way to avoid mortgage insurance is to wait until you save enough for the down payment.

87. Not Shopping Around for Better Rates

If your credit score is solid, you should be able to find some decent mortgage rates when you’re ready to buy a home. Do some shopping around, and don’t opt for the first lender the real estate agent suggests.

88. Refinancing Too Soon or Too Often

There’s a right time and a wrong time to try to refinance your mortgage. Waiting until the interest rates have dropped is key, but you must also consider other factors, such as how long you plan to be in the home.

89. Skipping the Home Inspection

Home inspections can seem pricey, especially when you’re trying to save for a down payment. But skipping the home inspection could leave you and your wallet suffering some serious buyer’s remorse.

Ways You’re Wasting Money on Your Pet

90. Purchasing Premium Pet Food

Our four-footed friends and family deserve the best, but some premium pet foods rely on fillers and low-quality ingredients. If your vet has recommended a specific food for health reasons, shop around online for the best affordable pet food.

91. Buying Pet Insurance

Insurance is a tricky decision for pet parents. Older pets with pre-existing health conditions usually aren’t eligible for pet insurance. Certain dog breeds are also more expensive to insure, such as Newfoundlands and Jack Russell terriers.

92. Getting the Expensive Treats and Toys

You know the little furry darling will gut that adorable plushy in about three seconds flat. Lean into durable toys and make your own treats at home.

93. Not Spaying or Neutering Your Pet

One of the most costly mistakes you can make is not spaying or neutering your pet and ending up with expensive vet bills and a litter of hungry puppies or kittens. There are clinics that offer free or low-cost spay and neuter services if cost is a barrier.

Ways You’re Randomly Wasting Money

94. Buying Lottery Tickets

Hitting the jackpot is a pipe dream, and you know it. Instead, squirrel money away on something that’ll earn you a better return on investment, like a high-yield savings account.

95. Keeping that Unused Gym Membership

You keep saying you’ll go someday, but someday never seems to come. Ditch unused memberships and work out at home for free.

96. Paying for More Life Insurance Than You Need

In many cases, your employer may offer you life insurance. While it might be smart to take out an additional policy depending on your family situation and health, it’s not necessary for everyone.

97. Buying Books

We know you love your Kindle, but hear us out. The books and magazines in the library down the street are free. And if you prefer, you can also download books online from most libraries.

98. Always Running Late

If you’re the type who’s always slipping out the door five minutes late, you’re in good company. But that behavior is costing you more than a frantic morning. It means you’re more likely to grab fast food, have to pay for coffee, or even get a parking ticket.

99. Buying When You Could Borrow

Next time you think you must buy a leaf blower or a kitchen gadget, ask yourself how often you’ll use it. If the answer is infrequently, ask your neighbor or a friend if you can borrow or split the cost and share an appliance or tool. There are even tool libraries you can use.

If you can’t borrow, see if renting makes sense. There are several things you should rent instead of buy.

100. Keeping a Storage Unit

Clutter isn’t just costing you space. Americans spend billions every year on storage and old storage units, which can cost upwards of $100 per month to maintain. Store stuff temporarily while relocating, but commit to clearing it out within a year.

101. Not Doing Your Research for Big-Ticket Items

Consumers who don’t do their research and read the fine print before buying large appliances, cars and even homes are wasting money on potentially problematic purchases. Think ahead about not only the purchase price but what the ongoing costs may be.

How to Stop Wasting and Start Saving Money

The key to stopping wasteful behaviors is not to plunge into changing everything at once. Pick a few key categories off this list and work at changing those habits slowly over the next four to six weeks. That’s how long experts say it takes to create effective behavioral change.

A good place to start is food waste. The majority of Americans spend 20% more at restaurants than they do on groceries. Dig in and see what changes you can make to convert those pennies saved into pennies earned.

Kaz Weida is a senior staff writer at The Penny Hoarder covering saving money and budgeting. As a journalist, she has written about a wide array of topics including finance, health, politics, education and technology for the last decade.