As much as we hate it, we have to admit that winter is here to stay for a little while. But that doesn't mean you have to let winter dilemmas get you down. Here are some frugal solutions for every day winter problems. They're cheap AND effective.

Make your own candles

I didn't believe this method until I tried it. Now, I'm a big believer! You can make your own candles with one simple kitchen ingredient...vegetable shortening.

Here's what to do...

  • Cut a piece of 100% cotton twine for the wick (twice the height of your candle holder)
  • Attach a nut on either end of the string (acts as weight)
  • Melt vegetable shortening in the microwave and pour it into the candle holder
  • Insert one end of the weighted wick into the holder
  • Wrap the other end of the wick around a pencil. Lay the pencil on top of the holder to keep the wick centered
  • Let the candle solidify and set. That's it! You've just made an all-natural candle that burns beautifully for hours!             

These candles are wonderful the next time the power goes out, or if you want a romantic evening without being overwhelmed by traditional scented candles. Bonus: If you want to scent these candles, just add a few drops of essential oil as the shortening is cooling.

Make your own anti-static spray

A simple idea that will quickly become a go-to solution! You can make your own static spray with two simple ingredients...water and dryer sheets.

Here's what to do...

  • Cut a dryer sheet into half
  • Insert the sheet into a fine-mist spray bottle
  • Fill the bottle with water
  • Shake! That's it! You've just created a homemade static spray that works great on clothing, and also on hair!

You can spritz your clothing with this spray before you put it on. Wait a couple of seconds for it to dry and you'll immediately notice the static is gone. This works really well to combat static on your hair as well. There is a popular internet tip out there that says you should rub a dryer sheet over your hair but I find this mist works way better, especially if you use it in the morning when you style your hair.

Make your own winter lip fix

If you're anything like me, chapped lips are a dilemma all winter long. I treat myself to this lip fix once a week and it goes a long way for keeping my lips smooth.

Here's what to do...

  • Wet your lips with warm water
  • Apply a thin layer of honey to your lips and let it sit for a few minutes
  • Apply a thin layer of Vaseline over top and let it sit for 10 minutes
  • Remove everything with a damp wash cloth and rejoice!

Honey is known to be antibacterial and traps in moisture. when you combine it with Vaseline you lips are definitely getting a treat! Sometimes I put the honey and Vaseline on before I go to bed and don't worry about wiping it off. If you're lips are really bad, you might have to do this a few days in a row before you see results.

Make your own salt stain remover

Who hasn't had to deal with the sight of salt-stained boots? We've talked about this solution before and it's definitely a must-try!

Here's what to do...

  • Use a dry toothbrush to brush off any loose powder and salt from your boot...rinse toothbrush
  • Mix 1 tsp white vinegar with a 1/4 cup water
  • Dip your toothbrush into the water-vinegar mix and use it to clean the stain from your boot

This works well with leather and suede. The vinegar is diluted enough to not cause any damage. Some people say there is no scientific proof that this works...but I think it works great. My theory is that the vinegar gently dissolves the salt and the toothbrush is just enough agitation to get things cleaned up.

You can find Amrita's blog Pretty Frugal Living by clicking here!