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- Money Saver: Generic Drugs, Drain Screens, Iron Food & DIY Mosquito Spray
Money Saver: Generic Drugs, Drain Screens, Iron Food & DIY Mosquito Spray
Money Saver Saving $2,600 – $7,400 / year
Food: Generic Drugs
Saving $2000 - $2500 / year
If you regularly take prescription medications, you know how costs can add up. One simple way to save money without compromising on quality is by choosing generic drugs. What Are Generic Drugs? A generic drug is a medication that works the same as a brand-name drug. It has the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, and effectiveness but costs much less.
Why Use Generic Drugs? Generic drugs offer the same quality at a lower cost and are clinically identical to brand-name versions. They help people save around $2,000 to $2,500 per year (link), and nearly half of all prescriptions filled are for generics.
How to Get Generic Medications? Talk to your doctor to see if a generic version of your medication is available and discuss any concerns. Your pharmacist can also check for generic options and help you understand the potential savings. By choosing generic medications, you can effectively reduce prescription costs while maintaining the same quality of treatment.
Home & Utilities: Drain Screens
Saving $150 - $800 / year
We all have drains, and at some point, we've all had to deal with a clogged one. These can be a real hassle—not to mention expensive. Cleaning a clogged drain can cost $150 to $800. In worst cases, repairing or replacing drainpipes can run between $250 to $1,250, while replacing a whole system might cost $15,000 to $20,000. You don’t want these!
A simple and affordable way to avoid these costs is by using drain screens. Filters catch debris before it enters your pipes, preventing blockages. There are different types, like polyurethane drain covers, stainless steel strainers, mesh drain socks, and Ultra-Drain Guards. A basic set for sinks, showers, and toilets costs between $20 and $100—a small price compared to plumbing bills.
You cut down on clogs, meaning fewer calls to the plumber and less money spent on repairs. Save just by making this simple switch. Plus, regular checks and cleaning your screens can help prevent major issues down the road. It’s a quick, easy, and cost-effective way to keep your drains clear and your wallet happy.
Health: Iron Rich Food
Saving $400 - $4000 / year
Iron deficiency is a common health issue, affecting over 1.2 billion people worldwide and could be costly. Many struggle with low iron levels, leading to fatigue, weakness, and other health problems. Supplements or treatments can be expensive, there are simple, affordable ways to boost iron naturally.
The easiest trick is cooking with a cast iron skillet. This naturally increases iron content in your food and is especially helpful for those who don’t respond well to supplements. Another option is the Lucky Iron Fish, a small iron ingot that can be added to soups and sauces to release iron. It’s low-cost, reusable, and great for picky eaters.
These small changes can help prevent expensive treatments. Oral supplements cost just a few hundred dollars per year, but iron infusions range from $400 to $4,300 per session, and severe cases requiring human erythropoietin can cost around $6,000 per treatment. Before making changes, it’s always best to check with a doctor for proper diagnosis and guidance.
Travel & Transport: DIY Mosquito Spray
Saving $50 - $100 / year
Campers spend $50 to $100 per season on mosquito repellents, with each can of spray costing $8 to $10. Frequent campers may spend $16 to $20 per trip just on repellent. (link)
A cheaper alternative is making DIY mosquito spray using essential oils like citronella and eucalyptus. Mix 10-20 drops of essential oil with 2 tablespoons of carrier oil and 2 ounces of distilled water in a spray bottle. This homemade solution costs only a few dollars and lasts multiple uses.
DIY sprays may need more frequent application than store-bought repellents, and some people may have skin sensitivities. Always do a patch test first. Still, many find the cost savings and natural ingredients worth it, making DIY repellents a great budget-friendly choice.
If you try even a couple of these tips, you could save around $2,600 – $7,400 a year.
Simple moves, big savings
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