BillMonitor

We would like to introduce you to Mrs BillMonitor, our resident money saving authority. She has seen recessions come and go and has always found ways to keep delicious food on the table and, of course, to look immaculately stylish.  She has compiled a helpful selection of tried and tested money saving tips, with appropriate updates…

Grocery Shopping

“During World War Two the government encouraged shoppers to bring their own paper to wrap up their shopping. Why not keep a featherweight shopping bag in your handbag or rucksack and save on buying plastic bags. See here for an inexpensive version made our of recycled parachute silk”

Home-grown

“The Ministry of Agriculture’s celebrated Dig for Victory campaign in 1940 encouraged people to grow delicious vegetables in their gardens or if they had no garden, to ask their local council for allotments. You can apply for an allotment here , alternatively see lovely Californian Fern’s tips on a verdant balcony.”

Eggs is Eggs

“Chickens are delightful pets and surprisingly, are happy to live in an urban environment, even if you do not have a garden. See this wonderful site for fresh eggs from Henrietta all year round”

Takeaway – it adds up…

“I can’t resist the fabulous modern treat of having a hot meal delivered straight to my door, but often shudder at the total cost. I have found cooking my own rice helps make the bill more palatable. PS for those of you with the new-fangled gluten intolerance Hell’s Pizza is the place to go”

Just for the Girls

“The Internet is an online treasure trove of fashion finds. For customised 50’s dresses try Diana – she will whip you up a beauty and send it straight to your door at a very reasonable cost. For tips on how to customise your wardrobe I like Queen’s of Vintage Make & Mend”

Student Savings

“Those clever chaps at UniAid have built a special student calculator that will help you to sort out your budget by balancing your time and money.”

Spick ‘n’ Span

“Here are some good tips on wardrobe maintenance from my friend Mrs Sewandsew:”

“Electricity usually becomes cheaper after 9pm – save jobs like using the washing machine until late in the day. Some washing machines have a timer so their cycle can coincide with the start of the next day.”

“Don’t throw your clothes down in a heap when you take them off – they’ll last longer if you shake them well and put them straight on hangers, as well as keeping their shape! The thicker and rounder the hanger, the better. Make sure any buttons are done up too, before you put them on the hanger.”

“Never let clothes get really dirty, as dirt damages the fabric – clean or wash clothes as soon as they get dirty. Dirt attracts moths!”

Broadband Savings

“Now when I first heard about broadband savings from my fella Mr BillMonitor, I thought he must be talking about broadbeans or even brawny man ( I do like my men beefy). But actually he was suggesting I take a look at the helpful boys who run Broadband Suppliers and find myself a cheap broadband deal, by comparing offers from UK suppliers. You can even save money using  special discounts, and as you know readers we love special discounts here.”