Friday, May 6, 2011

Money-Saving Tips for OC's Eco-Friendly Moms

Quick Tips to Save Cash and Go-Green:
By Dawn Wunsch, Owner of Children's Orchard

Children’s Orchard of Laguna Niguel is an upscale resale shop that sells gently used children’s clothing and accessories at deeply discounted prices. Here are some tips for cash-strapped families looking for creative ways to be resourceful and reduce their carbon footprint.

    * Use a reusable tote when shopping. Tote bags are sturdier than plastic or paper bags found at most grocery or retail stores and are also a great way to express your personal style. Repurposing denim from old jeans into a tote bag is a great way to make use of worn or outgrown pants. Seek out retailers that offer a discount for using reusable totes when shopping.
    * Upcycle. Not only should you recycle your paper and plastic, but you can repurpose or “upcycle” old clothing items like turning pillowcases into girls’ dresses or jeans into a purse.  
    * Use homemade cleaning agents such as vinegar, baking soda and tea tree oil. Just add one part white vinegar and three parts water and a few drops of tea tree oil to a spray bottle. Use an old t-shirt as a fabric to clean with.
    * Use cloth diapers. Almost any fabric can be used for a diaper outer layer, including knits, wovens, corduroy, velours and brocades. Your family will save almost $2,500+ per child vs. using disposables and you will not have to put 1 to 2 bags of disposable diaper trash out on the curb each week.
    * Shop local famers markets for fresh produce. This will help support the local famers as well as keep your money within the community.
    * Shop resale. Purchase gently used clothes, toys and accessories at your local resale store and sell your children’s outgrown clothes for cash on the spot. This is a smart way to make some extra money and help out local families. 

Children’s Orchard is encouraging Orange County moms to join the discussion and share their eco-friendly ideas for a chance to win a $500 shopping spree and a chance to be crowned the Greenest Mom in America.

For an even bigger discount, print the following coupon for $5 off a purchase of $25 or more.

No comments:

Post a Comment