When frugality goes wrong, it really goes wrong. There are just some things that are not a good idea to practice, no matter how much you want to save.
In an effort to be frugal, sometimes people will unknowingly do things that are illegal or put themselves and their families at risk.
Here is my list of some things you should not do while practicing a frugal lifestyle:
1. Compromise baby safety. I see plenty of people who curb shop (pick things up from the curb) or tag sale for car seats, cribs and high chairs. This is a dangerous idea. Chances are pretty good that those items as tossed for a reason. Most thrift stores and charities won’t even take them. This is because they have no way of knowing if the car seats, cribs and high chairs meet safety standards. The car seat could be expired (yes they do expire) or it could have been in a crash.
2. Practice bad taste. I wasn’t sure if this next one should go under the thievery category or the bad taste. It is a bit of both. I have heard of people driving around the cemetery the night before to collect flowers to use for a wedding the next day!
For a more bit of bad taste, when an elderly relative of mine passed, the family was gathered around the living room of her retirement community townhouse. it was the night before the funeral and burial. There was a knock on the door. A neighbor down the street heard there was a passing and wanted to know if there was anything we might not want to keep. He offered to come in and look around. I think he thought he was doing us a favor, but yikes. I almost lost it then.
3. Making your family and friends think your nuts. I recently ran into a friend who has been born frugal. She has a lot of great tips that have really helped me establish my frugal lifestyle. However, sometimes her tips are a bit much for me. Her latest idea: instead of toilet paper, use newspaper! Um no. My family would send me to the funny farm if I suggested that they walk around with newsprint on their butts. Plus, have you ever been familiar with the bathroom habits of a young boy? I can just imagine… Or, do you think I am overreacting and should try this one?
What do you think? Would you like to see more “Don’t Try This at Home” blogs?
Related Articles:
How Far Will You Go to Be Frugal? (1)
How Far Will You Go to Be Frugal? (2)