If you’ve been trying to stretch your income, reduce your bills, or save for a big goal, the fastest way to start is by cutting expenses and stop paying you don’t actually need.
But the truth? Many of the things you’re paying for already have free alternatives—some even better than the paid version.
Here are 7 things you should stop paying for immediately, plus detailed DIY replacements that will save you hundreds every single year.
1. Stop Paying for Phone Storage Plans
Monthly phone storage fees add up fast—£1.99 here, £2.49 there. But you don’t need them.
DIY Free Alternatives
a) Switch Google Photos to Unlimited Free Storage Mode
- Open Google Photos
- Go to Backup settings
- Change quality to Storage Saver
This compresses photos but keeps them high quality for everyday
use.
b) Move files to free offline storage
Use a flash drive you can plug directly into your phone.
Recommended:
SanDisk Ultra 128GB USB 3.0 Flash Drive
c) Delete duplicate files in one tap
Free apps like Files by Google scan your phone and remove:
- Duplicate videos
- WhatsApp clutter
- Unused downloads
Do this once a month and you’ll never need paid storage again.
2. Stop Paying for Expensive Cleaning Products
Kitchen cleaners, bathroom sprays, stain removers—they’re all the same formula with fragrance added.
Here’s how to make your own powerful, natural cleaners that cost almost nothing.
DIY All-Purpose Cleaner (Works on Everything)
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 cup water
- ½ lemon (juice)
- Optional: drops of essential oil
Mix in a spray bottle.
Spray Bottle Set:
Amber Glass Reusable Spray Bottles
Where to use it:
- Kitchen counters
- Mirrors
- Glass
- Stainless steel
- Bathroom tiles
DIY Heavy-Duty Scrub for Stains + Grime
- 3 tbsp baking soda
- 1 tbsp dish soap
- Few drops lemon juice
Creates a strong paste perfect for:
- Burnt pots
- Soap scum
- Oven doors
This combination cleans better than most £5 cleaners—and it’s completely non-toxic.
3. Stop Paying for Moisturizers and Lotions
Skin creams are some of the most overpriced products in stores. You can easily make your own natural alternatives that hydrate better.
DIY Deep Moisture Balm for Body + Feet
- 2 tbsp shea butter
- 1 tbsp coconut oil
- 1 tsp olive oil
- Melt on low heat, store in a jar
Small Cosmetic Jar Set:
This balm softens:
- Cracked heels
- Elbows
- Dry legs
- Cuticles
DIY Aloe Hydrating Face Gel
- 2 tbsp pure aloe vera gel
- 1 tsp glycerin
- Mix and refrigerate
Apply morning and night. Your skin stays plump and hydrated all day.
4. Stop Paying for Store Air Fresheners
Plug-ins and spray cans are expensive—and filled with synthetic chemicals.
Try these zero-cost natural scent boosters instead.
DIY Simmer Pot (Smells Like a Luxury Home)
In a small pot, simmer:
- Lemon slices
- Cinnamon sticks
- Cloves
- Vanilla extract
Your entire home will smell fresh for hours.
DIY Carpet Freshener Powder
Sprinkle on carpets:
- ½ cup baking soda
- 10 drops essential oil
Leave 10 minutes, vacuum.
For long-lasting scent, use a simple diffuser.
Ceramic Essential Oil Diffuser
5. Stop Paying for Password Managers
Most phones and laptops come with secure, encrypted password storage—you don’t need subscriptions.
Free Options You Already Have:
- Google Password Manager (Android, Chrome)
- iCloud Keychain (iPhone + Mac)
- Firefox Password Manager (Windows/Mac)
For extra safety, back up important passwords offline.
Encrypted USB Stick:
Link: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07M5WPC37
6. Stop Buying Printer Ink for Every Small Document
If you print once in a while, you don’t need expensive ink refills.
DIY No-Print Paperwork Method
Sign documents free on your phone:
- Open PDF
- Use “Markup” or “Add Signature”
- Save and send
Store all receipts digitally:
Take screenshots and sort into folders like:
- “Bills 2025”
- “School Papers”
- “Visa Documents”
- “Rent & Utilities”
If you must print, choose a low-ink machine.
7. Stop Paying for Gym Subscriptions You Aren’t Using
If you go less than twice a week, you’re wasting money.
DIY Home Workout Plan (Free & Effective)
Upper Body:
- Use water bottles as weights
- Push-ups
- Chair tricep dips
Lower Body:
- Squats
- Lunges
- Stair climbing
Abs:
- Planks
- Bicycle crunches
- Leg raises
For resistance training, get a one-time purchase:
Resistance Bands Set
Final Thoughts
Cutting costs doesn’t mean living small—it means living smart.
Swap just 3 things on this list and you’ll save hundreds every year while actually improving your home, skin, and daily life.
Smart Money Hacks That Actually Grow Your Savings
If you feel like saving money is impossible in today’s economy, you’re not alone. Between rising bills and unexpected expenses, it’s easy to feel stuck. But here’s the
truth — building real savings isn’t about earning more; it’s about being smarter with what you already have.
These 10 smart money hacks are practical, easy to start, and proven to help your balance grow without sacrificing your lifestyle. You don’t need to be a financial expert — just a little consistency and the right tools.
1️⃣ Automate Your Savings
The easiest way to save money is to never “see” it in the first place. Set up an automatic transfer from your current account to a savings or high-yield account each payday.
Even £20 per week adds up to over £1,000 a year — without effort.
💡 Pro tip: Try automating with your bank app or a tool like Monzo Savings Pots or Revolut Vaults.
2️⃣ Use Cash-Back Apps for Everyday Spending
Why not earn while you spend?
Apps like TopCashback, Rakuten, and Honey give you money back on purchases you already make.
It’s not a gimmick — consistent users save £100–£300 per year just by clicking a button before checkout.
🛍️ Try: Rakuten Extension on Amazon
3️⃣ Apply the 24-Hour Rule
