How I Saved $400/Month by Making These 5 Things at Home

Introduction

As a busy mom trying to balance family, faith, and finances, I’ve learned that living more naturally doesn’t just bless our health – it blesses our budget too. Once I started making a few everyday essentials at home, I was shocked to see how quickly the savings added up. By swapping out store-bought items for homemade versions, I saved over $400 a month – and the best part? These swaps are simple, family-friendly, and often healthier than what you’ll find in stores.

Here are the 5 things I started making at home that transformed our budget:

1. Homemade Bread – Saving $60/month

Store-bought bread might feel convenient, but it adds up quickly – especially if your family eats a loaf every couple of days. I started baking our own bread (using simple ingredients like flour, yeast, salt, and water) and discovering not only huge savings, but a taste and texture so much better than packaged bread. Plus, my kids love helping knead the dough, making it a fun family project. Let little ones “paint” the top with an egg wash before baking – it gives them a sense of ownership in the meal!

2. Natural Skincare & Lotion Bars – Saving $45/month

Instead of spending money on lotions and creams full of ingredients I can’t pronounce, I began making my own natural lotion bars with coconut oil, shea butter, and tallow. They’re deeply nourishing, non-toxic, and cost only a fraction of store-bought brands. Plus, I can customize them with essential oils for calming bedtime blends or energizing morning routines.

3. Cleaning Solutions – Saving $50/month

I used to load up my shopping cart with specialty sprays, glass cleaners, and scrubs. Now, with just vinegar, baking soda, castile soap, and a few essential oils, I make all-purpose sprays, countertop cleaners, and even laundry boosters at home. They work just as well – if not better – and I love knowing my child isn’t being exposed to harsh chemicals while helping me clean.

4. Homemade Soap – Saving $75/month

As a soap maker, this one is close to my heart! Goat milk soap is nourishing, gentle, and luxurious, but boutique bars can cost $6 – $8 each. By making my own batches at home, I not only save money, but also have control over every ingredient. Plus, homemade soap makes beautiful gifts, which means I save even more during holidays and birthdays.

5. Freezer Meals & Homemade Snacks – Saving $170/month

This is where the biggest savings came in. Instead of relying on frozen dinners, takeout, or endless boxes of snack bars, I started prepping freezer-friendly meals and simple homemade snacks like muffins, granola bars, and energy bites. It reduced our grocery bill, cut back on food waste, and helped me avoid the drive-thru on busy bible study nights. Dedicate just one afternoon per month to cooking in bulk, and you’ll have weeks of stress-free dinners ready to go.

The Big Picture: Simple Changes, Lasting Impact

All together, these five swaps saved my family more than $400 every single month. That’s money we can now redirect toward family activities, paying off debt, or investing in our home. But even beyond the financial savings, making things at home has given me a deeper sense of purpose and peace. I know exactly what goes into the food we eat, the products we use, and the home we’re building – one small choice at a time. Living naturally doesn’t have to be expensive – in fact, it can be one of the most powerful ways to steward your family’s resources while creating a healthier, more intentional home.