The Thrifty Household Supplies

The Thrifty Household guide cover
Recommended supplies

The Thrifty Household

Tools that pay for themselves by lowering your bills

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. The buttons below go to Amazon; if you buy through them, Tech Home Run earns a small commission at no extra cost to you. We list the tools the guide’s skills call for, and you don’t need everything to get started.

Cut the electric bill

Plug-in electricity usage meter

Shows exactly what each device costs to run.

See it on Amazon

Outlet timers

Turn off chargers, lamps and the coffee maker automatically.

See it on Amazon

Power strip with individual switches

One click ends phantom power at the TV stand.

See it on Amazon

Programmable or smart thermostat

Automatic setbacks while you sleep or work.

See it on Amazon

LED light bulbs

Use a fraction of the power and last for years.

See it on Amazon

Seal and save

Window insulation film kit

Shrink-on film that stops drafts on old windows.

See it on Amazon

Weatherstripping tape

Seals gaps around doors and windows.

See it on Amazon

Caulk gun

For sealing drafty trim and windows.

See it on Amazon

Low-flow faucet aerators

Cut water use with no change in habits.

See it on Amazon

Laundry and appliances

Folding drying rack

Skip the dryer for most loads.

See it on Amazon

Wool dryer balls

Shorter dry times, no dryer sheets to buy.

See it on Amazon

Dryer vent cleaning kit

A clean vent dries faster and lowers fire risk.

See it on Amazon

Refrigerator coil brush

Clean coils help the fridge run less.

See it on Amazon

Fridge thermometer

Keeps food safe at 40 F or below.

See it on Amazon

Kitchen and home

Glass meal-prep containers

Cook once, eat twice, waste less.

See it on Amazon

Glass spray bottles

For safe, simple DIY cleaners.

See it on Amazon

Microfiber cloths

Washable, reusable, replace paper towels.

See it on Amazon

Furniture touch-up markers

Hide scratches in minutes.

See it on Amazon

Silicone spray lubricant

Quiets squeaks and frees sticky drawers.

See it on Amazon

Learn the skills step by step

Every item here comes from a skill in The Thrifty Household, our illustrated printable guide.

Get the guide on Etsy

Product availability and prices change on Amazon; check the listing before you buy. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and tested, current guidance (for example, USDA guidance for canning). See supplies for all our guides.