The Nuclear Savings Rule: 10 Frugal Living Tips From the 1950s Era

Have you ever wished to go back to another decade for what may have been simpler times? With the Nuclear Savings Rule, you can — at least where your budget is concerned.

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The Nuclear Savings Rule looks at 1950s spending habits. Many people of that era had lived through the Great Depression and maintained their frugal lifestyles even after it ended. The Nuclear Savings Rule carries forward some of that frugality and makes it relevant for today.

Here’s a look at 10 frugal living tips from the 1950s that can stretch your budget and save you money .

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Live Simply

You may have heard that life was just simpler back in the 1950s. With all the technology and distractions of life today, it can be a nice change of pace to unplug and get back to basics when you can. Not only will you clear your mind, but time away from the constant onslaught of marketing messages and shopping temptations can save you money at the the same time.

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Cook at Home

One of the tips often shared about cutting expenses is eating at home instead of dining out. But that only goes so far if you frequently order in rather than cook.

“It’s possible the internet, Pinterest and fancy cookbooks helped us complicate meal time, but cooking doesn’t have to be so fancy or convoluted,” according to the Happy Simple Mom blog.

Plant a Vegetable Garden

Perhaps your grandparents or great-grandparents grew much of their food. With the help of online how-to videos, you can try growing some of your own food as well. You could use it as a way to save money and do an activity as a family.

Make Grocery Lists

“Making a list of foods and ingredients you know you love helps you stay focused, and staying focused at the grocery store can help you save lots of money,” according to The New York Times.

Back in the 1950s, making a grocery list probably meant using a pen and paper. Today, mobile tools make it easy to add to your list on the fly and have it handy for impromptu stops at the grocery store.

Pay With Cash or Debit

Consumers have more shopping and payment options than ever, but there’s still money to be saved by sticking with cash or debit. That way, you avoid interest and fees from credit cards and other payment methods.

Fix Rather Than Replace

In some circles, this tip may already be in fashion. Some consumers mend their belongings and then share what they’ve done on social media. While you may not want to go that route, you can save money by making some repairs instead of rushing out to buy replacements.

Hand Down Clothing

Speaking of skipping replacements, you may want to look at how your family deals with hand-me-downs. You may think that was just a thing to do back in the 1950s or other decades. But it’s still popular and a good way to save money. During this back-to-school season, perhaps look at how hand-me-downs from one child to another — and maybe even a swap with friends — could help the budget.

Recycle and Upcycle Household Items

Think beyond clothes when it comes to reusing and repurposing for your household items. You could even do some research to get ideas from previous decades about new uses for things like food containers and fabric scraps.

Get Rid of Your Car

In some big cities, you can take advantage of excellent public transportation instead of owning your own vehicle. It can help you save money and give you time to read or catch up on the news while you ride.

Enjoy Free and Low-Cost Entertainment

When it comes to nuclear-style frugal living, perhaps take a look at your entertainment spending. While your family may not want to gather around the radio like in the 1950s, perhaps a board game or a streaming movie, popcorn and after-film discussion could be a cheap and memorable weekend night.

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