by Susan Klatz Beal

Created on: January 20, 2010   Last Updated: January 21, 2010

These days, everyone is looking for ways to save money. When you can save money and do things that are environmentally friendly, or by going green, then those savings are even  better. It isn't hard to save money and to go green; you just have to be aware of some simple things you can do that will save you money, be green, and not change your quality or standard of living.

Here are some simple ways to save money and be green at the same time.

*Stop using paper -

If you're a big paper user, stop purchasing so much paper. Instead of using paper plates, use regular plates. Instead of using paper napkins, purchase cloth napkins and wash them when they get dirty. The money you spend on purchasing cloth napkins will easily save you in the long run.

Instead of using paper towels all the time, purchase microfiber cloths. They can be reused and washed and will save you money on the cost of paper towels. More over, one microfiber cloth will likely cost you less than a roll of paper towels.

*Look at the way things are packaged -

You may not have noticed, but things that are packaged in fancy packaging and/or boxes tend to cost more than things you can buy in plain bags. Some manufacturers even make a point of using plastic food bags that are made from recycled materials.

*Plan your shopping trips in advance -

When you plan your shopping trips so that you can do all of your errands on the same day, and purchase everything you need for the week in that one trip, you eliminate the need to run out time after time to pick up that one item you forgot to buy. You will save money on gas by being more efficient in your planning and shopping. You will also save money by not having to go back to the store to pick up what you forgot because if you're like most people, you will inevitably find something else to buy while you're at the store.

*Save on cleaning supplies -

If you're used to buying a host of different cleaning products, stop doing that. There are so many natural and inexpensive products you can use to clean things and you'll save a fortune. Rather than purchasing acids to clean hard water stains, use white vinegar. Instead of buying silver polish or things to clean chrome and faucets, take baking soda and a tooth brush and clean it that way.

Instead of buying all sorts of fancy dusting sprays, use Murphy's Oil soap and dilute it with some water and put it in a spray bottle. That will last you a long time, remove dust easily, be safe on any surface and not fill your air with a ton of chemicals in the process.

*Wash clothes in cold water -

Most laundry soap manufacturers have come up with formulas that will allow you to wash everything in cold water, including whites. By not using hot or warm water, you'll save a huge amount of money on your electric bill. If you can, instead of using the dryer, hang things up to dry. Limiting your use of a dryer will save you a lot of money.

At some stores, such as Whole Foods Market, if you bring a reusable bag in when you shop, or bring back paper shopping bags, they will give you 10 cents off your bill for each bag you bring in. A dime may not seem like much, but think of how much you are saving in the way of paper, and how much can be saved when everyone does this.

These are all very easy ways to save money and to go green in the process. It does take a while to get used to making these changes, but once you do, you'll find that you will begin to look for more ways to save money and go green. You might also be surprised when you discover that it's actually rather fun to save money and to be green while doing so.

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