Boniface Praise 
A few years ago, I realized that my spending habits were quietly draining my bank account. I wasn’t living extravagantly, but small purchases here and there added up in ways I didn’t expect. That’s when I decided to challenge myself — I made a list of things I stopped buying to save money. What started as a small experiment turned into a game-changing shift in how I viewed spending. By the end of the first year, I had saved over $4,000 without feeling deprived. In fact, I felt more in control and more intentional about where my money was going.
21 things to stop buying to save money
In this article, I’ll share the 21 things I stopped buying to save money, along with how each decision contributed to my yearly savings. These changes aren’t about being frugal for the sake of it — they’re about creating more financial freedom for what truly matters.
.
1. Daily Coffee Shop Runs
I used to stop by my favorite coffee shop every morning on my way to work. It was part of my routine, a comforting ritual, and I convinced myself it was “only a few dollars a day.” But when I sat down and did the math, I realized I was spending close to $100 a month — that’s $1,200 a year on lattes and cappuccinos.
Now, I brew my coffee at home. I invested in a good coffee maker and a milk frother, which paid for themselves in just a couple of months. Not only do I save money, but I also get to customize my drinks exactly how I like them. According to National Coffee Association research, making coffee at home can cut your annual coffee spending by more than half. This one switch alone became one of the most impactful things I stopped buying to save money.
.
2. Bottled Water
Buying bottled water seemed harmless until I added up the cost. Between gym visits, road trips, and grabbing a bottle while out running errands, I was spending hundreds a year on something I could get for almost free at home. Plus, the plastic waste was something I didn’t feel good about.
I bought a high-quality reusable water bottle and started carrying it everywhere. Now, I refill it from my tap or filtered pitcher before leaving the house. The savings are significant, and it’s better for the environment. The Environmental Protection Agency confirms that switching to reusable bottles not only saves money but also reduces plastic waste dramatically. This became another essential example of things I stopped buying to save money that also aligns with my values.
.
3. Cable TV Subscription
I used to have a premium cable package that included channels I never even watched. Between the base cost and additional fees, my monthly bill was creeping toward $100. That’s $1,200 a year for something I barely used.
Now, I rely on affordable streaming services. I rotate subscriptions so I’m only paying for what I actually watch at any given time. By ditching cable, I’ve cut my entertainment bill by about 75 percent. The American Television Alliance notes that cable costs have risen sharply in the past decade, making it a prime target for anyone looking for things to stop buying to save money without sacrificing entertainment.
.
4. Brand-Name Cleaning Products
I used to grab whatever brand-name cleaning products were on sale, thinking they worked better than generic ones. In reality, many store-brand versions have identical ingredients and work just as well — but at a fraction of the price.
Now, I either buy generic cleaning products or make my own using simple ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice. A bottle of homemade all-purpose cleaner costs less than a dollar to make, compared to $4–$5 for a brand-name option. According to Consumer Reports, generic household products can save you up to 30 percent annually without compromising performance. This change became one of the easiest things I stopped buying to save money while still keeping my home spotless.
.
5. Pre-Cut Fruits and Vegetables
It’s tempting to buy pre-cut fruits and vegetables, especially on busy days, but the convenience comes with a hefty markup. I realized I was paying nearly double compared to buying whole produce and chopping it myself.
Now, I take a few minutes to prepare my fruits and veggies after grocery shopping and store them in containers for quick access. Not only does this save money, but it also keeps produce fresher for longer. The USDA notes that whole produce retains nutrients better when stored uncut, which means this change not only helped my budget but also improved the nutritional value of my meals. This was a clear win among the things I stopped buying to save money.
.
6. Fast Fashion
I used to buy inexpensive clothing from fast fashion retailers thinking I was getting a bargain. The problem was the clothes often wore out or went out of style quickly, leading me to replace them frequently.
Now, I invest in fewer but higher-quality pieces that last longer and pair well with multiple outfits. By shopping less often and choosing timeless items, I’ve reduced my clothing expenses by hundreds of dollars a year. According to Good On You, a sustainable fashion resource, buying quality over quantity not only saves money in the long term but also reduces environmental impact. This change became one of the most impactful things I stopped buying to save money while still keeping my wardrobe stylish.
.
7. Gym Membership I Rarely Used
I signed up for a gym membership with the best intentions, but the truth was I barely went. Between busy workdays and at-home commitments, I wasn’t using it enough to justify the $40–$60 a month it cost. That added up to over $600 a year — money that could have gone toward something I actually used.
Now, I work out at home using free workout videos on YouTube and a few inexpensive pieces of equipment like resistance bands and dumbbells. According to Harvard Health Publishing, bodyweight exercises and minimal equipment can be just as effective as gym workouts for overall fitness. Canceling my unused gym membership was one of the smartest things I stopped buying to save money without sacrificing my health.
.
8. Disposable Razors
I used to buy packs of disposable razors every month, thinking they were the most convenient option. But they dull quickly, and the cost adds up fast — around $8–$10 per pack.
Now, I use a safety razor with replaceable blades that cost just pennies each. The initial razor cost about $25, but it paid for itself in a matter of months. Safety razors also give a smoother shave and reduce plastic waste, which is a bonus. The Environmental Working Group points out that switching to reusable personal care tools can save hundreds of dollars over time, making it an easy addition to the list of things I stopped buying to save money.
.
9. Paper Towels
Paper towels used to be a kitchen staple for me. I’d go through several rolls a month, which cost me over $100 a year. Not only was it wasteful, but it also wasn’t necessary for most cleaning tasks.
I switched to washable microfiber cloths and cotton towels. They’re more durable, better for the environment, and save me money year after year. Microfiber cloths can last hundreds of washes, and a pack costs less than $10. The EPAhighlights that reusable cleaning products significantly reduce household waste and costs, making this one of the most practical things I stopped buying to save money.
.
10. Single-Use Plastic Bags
I used to buy packs of disposable plastic bags for snacks, lunches, and storing leftovers. While they seemed inexpensive, the constant repurchasing added up to more than $50 a year. Plus, the environmental impact was hard to ignore.
Now, I use reusable silicone storage bags and glass containers. They’re washable, durable, and keep food fresher for longer. The Plastic Pollution Coalition states that replacing single-use plastics with reusable alternatives can save households money and drastically reduce plastic waste. Making this switch was one of the easiest things I stopped buying to save money while also making a positive environmental choice.
.
11. Extended Warranties
Every time I bought electronics or appliances, the salesperson would push an extended warranty. I used to agree, thinking it was a smart safety net. But in most cases, I never used the coverage, and many products were already covered under the manufacturer’s warranty or my credit card’s purchase protection.
Now, I skip the add-on warranties and check the protections I already have. According to Consumer Reports, most extended warranties are not worth the cost for the average consumer. Avoiding these unnecessary purchases has easily saved me a few hundred dollars over the years. It’s one of the more overlooked things I stopped buying to save money but has made a noticeable difference.
.
12. Magazines and Newspapers I Rarely Read
I loved the idea of curling up with a glossy magazine or a weekend newspaper, but the truth was I barely made time to read them. Many issues went straight into the recycling bin, which meant I was paying for something I wasn’t even enjoying.
Now, I get my reading material from free or low-cost digital subscriptions and my local library’s online catalog. Many libraries offer free access to e-magazines and newspapers through apps like Libby. The American Library Associationnotes that digital resources have grown rapidly, making it easier to access quality reading materials without a big price tag. Canceling these subscriptions was one of the simplest things I stopped buying to save money while still enjoying my favorite content.
.
13. Impulse Snacks at the Checkout Line
Grabbing a candy bar or bag of chips while waiting in line used to be a small but regular habit. It never felt like much at the time, but at a couple of dollars here and there, those impulse buys added up to nearly $200 a year.
Now, I keep healthy snacks at home and in my bag so I’m not tempted when I’m out. Not only has this saved money, but it’s also helped me make better choices for my health. This is one of those things I stopped buying to save money that also helped me cut down on mindless eating.
.
14. Scented Candles
I loved the cozy atmosphere of scented candles, but when I looked at my spending, I realized I was spending over $100 a year on them. The scents didn’t last as long as I hoped, and I was constantly replacing them.
Now, I use essential oils in a diffuser, which gives me the same pleasant aroma for a fraction of the cost. A single bottle of essential oil can last months, making it a much more budget-friendly choice. This switch quickly became one of my favorite things I stopped buying to save money without giving up comfort at home.
.
15. Greeting Cards
Buying greeting cards for birthdays, holidays, and special occasions used to cost me $3–$6 each. Over a year, with multiple events, that added up to a surprising amount.
Now, I create my own cards using free online design tools or write heartfelt notes on simple stationery. Not only is it cheaper, but it feels more personal and meaningful. Friends and family have told me they treasure these handmade notes even more than store-bought cards. This has been a creative and sentimental addition to my list of things I stopped buying to save money.
.
16. Specialty Hair Products from Salons
For years, I felt pressured to buy expensive shampoos, conditioners, and styling products from my salon after every haircut. While they worked well, they cost two to three times more than quality products available at drugstores or online. Over the course of a year, that added up to a few hundred dollars.
Now, I choose affordable, salon-quality alternatives that work just as well for my hair type. Many brands offer professional-grade ingredients without the salon markup. This has been one of the most practical things I stopped buying to save money while still keeping my hair healthy and manageable.
.
17. Fancy Workout Gear
When I first started exercising regularly, I thought I needed expensive branded workout clothes and accessories to stay motivated. The truth was, they didn’t make my workouts more effective — they just made my wallet lighter.
Now, I stick to affordable, comfortable gear that still meets my needs. I focus on quality and fit rather than the logo on the label. This simple change has cut my fitness-related spending by more than half, making it a solid example of things I stopped buying to save money without affecting my progress.
.
18. Convenience Store Drinks
On hot days or long drives, I used to stop for bottled iced tea, soda, or energy drinks. At $2–$3 each, these quick purchases quietly drained my budget over the year.
Now, I brew my own iced tea or coffee at home and bring it with me in a reusable bottle. It’s healthier, cheaper, and just as refreshing. This habit shift has saved me well over $100 annually, proving that even small daily decisions can become powerful things I stopped buying to save money.
.
19. Expensive Skin Care Kits
I used to buy full skincare “systems” that promised glowing, flawless skin. These kits often included multiple steps — cleanser, toner, serum, moisturizer, and more — and cost anywhere from $80 to $150. At first, I thought they were worth it, but over time I realized I didn’t need half the products they included, and I could get the same results with a simpler, more affordable routine.
Now, I stick to a few core products that work for my skin and buy them individually, often during sales or from budget-friendly brands with high ratings. I also learned that consistency, sunscreen, and hydration matter more than a 10-step routine. This change has saved me hundreds each year and made my skincare routine less overwhelming. It’s easily one of the most liberating things I stopped buying to save money while still taking care of my skin.
.
20. Books I Only Read Once
I love reading, but buying new books every time I wanted to read something fresh became a costly habit. At $15–$25 per book, my monthly reading list was costing me over $300 a year. Worse, many of these books ended up collecting dust on my shelves after I finished them.
Now, I make full use of my local library, borrow from friends, or buy second-hand books at a fraction of the cost. Digital library apps like Libby give me free access to thousands of titles right from my phone or e-reader. This switch hasn’t just saved me money — it’s expanded my reading list without cluttering my home. Out of all the things I stopped buying to save money, this one has brought me the most joy while still keeping my love of reading alive.
.
21. Expensive Tech Upgrades I Didn’t Need
Every time a new phone or laptop was released, I felt the urge to upgrade. Even if my current device was working fine, I convinced myself that the latest features would make my life better. But the truth is, those upgrades came with a hefty price tag — often $800 or more for a new phone, and much more for a laptop.
Now, I keep my devices until they truly need replacing and invest in repairs or battery replacements when possible. I also sell or trade in my old electronics when I do upgrade, which helps offset the cost. This approach has saved me thousands over the years and taught me that “good enough” technology can serve me perfectly well. Out of all the things I stopped buying to save money, resisting unnecessary tech upgrades has been one of the biggest long-term wins for my finances.
Recommended reading
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to common questions about things I stopped buying to save money that you may be interested in.
Why do we keep buying things we don’t need?
Many of us buy things we don’t need because of convenience, social pressure, emotional triggers, or the influence of marketing. Advertisers are skilled at making us believe a product will make our lives better or solve a problem we may not even have. In my own journey, I realized that many of my purchases came from habit, not genuine need. Once I became aware of this pattern, I started practicing mindful spending — pausing before each purchase and asking if it truly added value to my life. This shift helped me identify the things I stopped buying to save money, and it made my spending choices far more intentional.
.
How can I stop buying useless stuff?
The best way to stop buying useless stuff is to create a short waiting period before making non-essential purchases. Some people follow the 30-day rule, where they delay the decision for a month to see if they still want the item. I personally started with a 48-hour rule, and even that was enough to eliminate many impulse buys. Another effective strategy is to make a detailed shopping list and stick to it. Over time, you train yourself to focus on essentials, which naturally helps you identify the things you stopped buying to save money.
.
What is the 30-day rule to save money?
The 30-day rule is a simple but powerful budgeting strategy. When you feel tempted to buy something non-essential, you write it down and wait 30 days before purchasing. If, after that time, you still want it and it fits within your budget, you can buy it guilt-free. Most of the time, the desire fades, and you realize you didn’t actually need it. I’ve applied this rule to everything from kitchen gadgets to clothing, and it’s helped me avoid many of the things I stopped buying to save money.
.
What is the best trick to save money quickly?
One of the best tricks to save money quickly is to identify and cut out recurring expenses that don’t add significant value to your life. For me, this included things like daily coffee shop runs, premium cable, and expensive skincare kits. Cutting even two or three of these recurring costs can free up hundreds of dollars in just a month or two. When you apply this consistently, you build momentum and see results faster, which encourages you to stick with the things you stopped buying to save money.
.
How can I save $5,000 in 100 days?
Saving $5,000 in 100 days requires an aggressive, short-term plan. Start by reviewing your biggest expenses and cutting anything non-essential — even temporarily. Sell unused items around your home, take on a side hustle, and redirect all extra income into your savings. When I wanted to boost my savings quickly, I combined no-spend weeks with selling things I no longer used, and it significantly accelerated my results. While this is intense, it forces you to identify the most impactful things you stopped buying to save money and sustain those habits beyond the 100 days.
.
Why doesn’t buying stuff make you happy in the long run?
Buying new items can give you a temporary boost of happiness because of the novelty and excitement. However, that feeling usually fades quickly, leaving you wanting something else to recreate it. This is known as the “hedonic treadmill” — the more you chase satisfaction through buying, the less fulfilling it becomes. I found that when I stopped relying on purchases for happiness and focused on experiences, relationships, and goals, I felt more content. This mindset helped me solidify the list of things I stopped buying to save money while improving my overall well-being.
.
21 things to stop buying to save money— summary
I hope you enjoyed my article on things I stopped buying to save money. My journey toward saving over $4,000 a year wasn’t about depriving myself — it was about making intentional choices that aligned with my values and long-term goals. By cutting out purchases that didn’t genuinely add value to my life, I found more financial freedom, less clutter, and a greater sense of control over my spending.
Whether it’s skipping overpriced coffee, resisting unnecessary tech upgrades, or rethinking how you approach everyday items, these changes can add up faster than you think. The key is to start small, focus on what makes the most impact for your lifestyle, and build from there. Over time, you’ll create your own personalized list of things you stopped buying to save money, and it might just surprise you how much more fulfilling life feels when you spend with purpose.
About the Author
6 thoughts on “21 Things I Stopped Buying That Saved Me $4,000 a Year”