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Want to save money and clear the clutter this summer? Try this simple challenge that helps you use what you already own — from pantry goods to beauty products — and stretch your dollars farther than you thought possible.
Raise your hand if you’ve ever bought a new lotion while you still had two half-used bottles under the sink. Or a fresh can of beans — when there were already three in the pantry. You’re not alone! Most of us have little stashes of forgotten items tucked away in drawers, closets, and cabinets.
Enter the Use-It-Up Challenge — a fun, no-pressure way to save money, reduce waste, and rediscover what you already have. It’s like shopping… in your own home!
🏡 What Is the Use-It-Up Challenge?
For one month, you commit to using up what you already have before buying anything new in key areas like:
• Pantry & fridge
• Freezer
• Toiletries & makeup
• Cleaning supplies
• Craft or hobby materials
• Office or school supplies
It’s not about going without — it’s about getting creative with what’s already there. You’ll be amazed by what you can stretch, swap, or repurpose.
👉 Savvy Tip: Make it fun! Treat it like a game, and keep a running list of how much you didn’t spend by using what you had.
🍲 Pantry & Freezer Edition: Get Creative with Meals
Before you hit the grocery store, ask: what can I make with what I have?
• Use up dry goods like rice, pasta, lentils, canned veggies, or soup bases.
• Dig into the freezer for forgotten meats or veggies — plan meals around them.
• Mix & match to create new recipes: quesadillas, stir-fries, grain bowls, and soups are super flexible!
👉 Savvy Tip: Try a “no-spend grocery week” once during the month — only shop for essentials like milk or eggs.
💄 Beauty & Bath Edition: Use Those Lotions and Lipsticks!
It’s time to give those neglected products some love.
• Finish the half-used shampoo before opening the new one.
• Rotate in old eyeshadow palettes, lip glosses, or body sprays.
• Use travel sizes and samples you’ve been saving “for later.”
👉 Savvy Tip: Keep a basket on your counter with products to use up first — when they’re visible, they get used.
🧹 Cleaning Supplies Edition: Work With What You’ve Got
No need for fancy sprays or duplicates.
• Combine the last of cleaning products to stretch them.
• Use old towels, socks, or t-shirts as rags.
• Mix up basic DIY cleaners with vinegar, baking soda, and dish soap.
👉 Savvy Tip: Take inventory of all your cleaning supplies. You may find three open bottles of window cleaner!
🎨 Hobbies & Extras Edition: Use What Sparks Joy (That You Already Own)
Before buying more yarn, paint, or books…
• Finish a project you already started.
• Read a book from your own shelf.
• Print and frame photos you’ve been meaning to display.
👉 Savvy Tip: Challenge yourself to finish one forgotten project by the end of the month — and enjoy the satisfaction!
📋 The Surprising Perks of the Use-It-Up Challenge
• Save serious money — some women report saving $100–$300 in one month.
• Declutter your home and reduce waste.
• Feel organized and in control of your space and spending.
• Build gratitude for what you already have.
👉 Savvy Tip: Keep a little notebook or phone list of what you used up — it’s motivating and eye-opening. See more tips on saving money this summer!
📌 Final Takeaway
The Use-It-Up Challenge is a gentle but powerful way to save money without feeling deprived. It’s not about perfection — it’s about awareness. And every lotion, can of soup, or candle you use is one less thing you need to buy.
👉 Your Savvy Challenge:
Pick one category to start with — pantry, beauty, or cleaning supplies — and commit to using up what you already have for the next 30 days. You might just find yourself saving money and loving the feeling of “less is more.” 💖
