TLC’s Extreme Cheapskates

Wow, last night I watched TLC’s Extreme Cheapskates and am literally disturbed by what I watched. Although I think a lot of it is for show, there are some things I want to point out to those of you who try to be thrifty and think this show is a good example of how to be frugal.

It’s not.

At all.

As a matter of fact, I’ll outline some things you should NEVER do to save money. The well being of your life isn’t worth these kinds of savings. These are things I actually saw on the show that I think are beyond sad.

1. Flushing the toilet once a week. This guy on the show flushed the toilet once a week by using old shower water that he collected through the week. This has got to be the worst idea of all time to save money on water. This guy said he saved around $15 a month on water. I’d rather burn $15 than do something that extreme.

2. Don’t use toilet paper. If you are thinking of doing this, please seek counseling. This person used a water bottle for number 1 and soap for number 2. You can always find awesome deals on TP with coupons and if you don’t like couponing, buy some single ply and WIPE people!

3. Dumpster diving for food. I do see some value in dumpster diving. I’ve seen friends find amazing furniture, electronics, etc. However, dumpster diving for food is NEVER ok. It’s beyond unsanitary and could easily make you very sick. Someone please get that lady some help.

4. Make your family suffer. Being frugal needs to take the backseat if your family is hurting from it. One of the men on the show was quite obviously making the life of his family very hard. He watched every dime they spent and was very controlling. Even to the point where he lied to his wife about his finances. Thrifty Divas are all about putting family first over savings and coupons.

5. Compromise your health and personal cleanliness. Some of these people were not bathing regularly so they can save money. Unfortunately you won’t be able to live long enough to enjoy the money you saved because you died of some communicable disease from not bathing!

Bottom line, saving money is awesome, but you have to live. You need to enjoy your life. You can’t take your money to the grave!