The ’80s were a time of thrift, DIY projects, and resourcefulness. While technology has changed a lot since then, many of the budgeting tricks from that era are still effective today. Here are some retro money-saving habits that can still help keep your home expenses down!
Turn Down the Thermostat (and Layer Up)
Energy costs were a big concern in the ’80s, and many families cut heating bills by setting the thermostat a few degrees lower and adding an extra sweater or blanket instead. This simple trick still works wonders for saving on heating costs today. Even a 1-2 degree adjustment can reduce your energy bill significantly over time.
Make Your Own Cleaning Supplies
Store-bought cleaning products were an occasional splurge, so people often made their own using items like vinegar, baking soda, and lemon. Not only are these ingredients inexpensive, but they’re also effective and eco-friendly. Many households still swear by these DIY solutions for everything from window cleaning to scrubbing sinks.
Use Ceiling Fans to Cut Cooling Costs
Ceiling fans were popular in the ’80s as a way to cut down on air conditioning costs. By circulating the air, fans help keep your home cooler in the summer (and warmer in winter if reversed). They’re much cheaper than running the A/C constantly and can make a noticeable difference on energy bills.
Cook in Bulk to Stretch Ingredients
With busy schedules and tight budgets, many ’80s households cooked in bulk and stored meals for the week. Making large batches of casseroles, stews, or pasta dishes is a great way to stretch ingredients and save time, especially for families with busy weeknights.
Use Reusable Kitchen Towels Instead of Paper Towels
Families in the ’80s often used washable dishcloths and rags instead of disposable paper towels for everyday cleaning. You can do the same today to save on paper products and reduce waste. Just toss them in the laundry, and they’re ready to use again.
Grow Indoor Herbs and Vegetables
Indoor gardening was trendy in the ’80s, with families growing herbs, tomatoes, and even lettuce on windowsills. Growing your own herbs and small veggies indoors is still a great way to save on groceries while adding a fresh, homemade touch to meals.
Shop Secondhand for Furniture and Decor
Thriftiness was celebrated in the ’80s, and many families bought gently used furniture, appliances, and decor to save money. Thrift stores, estate sales, and online marketplaces are still treasure troves for affordable, unique home pieces. Plus, you can often find vintage gems that add personality to your space.
Practice “Zone Heating” to Save Energy
Instead of heating the entire house, many people in the ’80s focused on heating only the rooms they used most, like the living room or bedrooms. Today, closing doors and only heating occupied spaces can still save a lot on energy. Portable heaters or blankets can keep you cozy in rooms where you spend the most time.
Avoid Credit for Household Expenses
In the ’80s, there was a strong focus on saving up and paying cash for home expenses, from appliances to home repairs. Avoiding credit or financing keeps you from paying extra in interest fees, so try to save up for larger purchases and avoid debt whenever possible.
Install Window Film to Retain Heat
Insulating window film was a popular, low-cost way to reduce drafts and save on heating bills in the winter. Many people would apply plastic film over windows to keep the warmth in and the cold out. This hack is still effective for drafty windows and can make your home feel much cozier without cranking up the heat.
Refinish and Repurpose Furniture
DIY refinishing was a popular way to give old furniture a fresh look without buying new. Sanding, painting, or upholstering existing pieces not only saves money but also lets you customize your decor. Try giving your furniture a makeover before considering replacements; you might be surprised by the results!
Line-Dry Laundry to Save on Energy
Line-drying clothes was common practice in the ’80s, even if families had a dryer. It cuts down on energy bills and is gentler on clothes, making them last longer. If you don’t have outdoor space, a drying rack indoors works just as well for a budget-friendly, energy-saving alternative.
These thrifty tricks from the ’80s are proof that sometimes the simplest habits make the biggest difference. By reintroducing these classic money-saving methods, you can keep your home expenses in check while still enjoying a comfortable, stylish living space. Give these vintage ideas a try—you might be surprised by how well they still work!
