9 things that are a waste of money🚨

i’ve wasted so much money on stuff that didn’t actually make my life better — it just made my bank account smaller.

the crazy part is most of the things that drain your money don’t even feel expensive in the moment. it’s the little habits, the convenience spending, the “$20 here, $40 there” that add up way faster than you think.

and half of these don’t even add real value… they just make life look nicer for like 10 minutes.

this list is lowkey everything i wish i stopped buying sooner 😭

save this so you can check yourself before you waste another $50 on something you don’t need 💚

#spending #moneytips #adulting101 #youngmoney #financialliteracy

2025/11/20 Edited to

... Read moreManaging your finances wisely often means more than just cutting big expenses; it’s about recognizing the smaller habits that silently eat away at your savings. One of the biggest culprits is upgrading your phone annually even when your current one works fine. This not only impacts your wallet but also contributes to unnecessary electronic waste. Another frequent mistake is buying "aesthetic" items that look nice on the surface but rarely get used. These purchases give a brief pleasure, but the lack of functionality makes them a poor investment. Convenience spending, especially on daily DoorDash orders or similar food delivery, can quickly add up. While it's tempting to save time, these expenses often exceed the cost of preparing meals at home, stressing your budget for a short-lived comfort. Store credit cards with high APR rates are a trap that many fall into unknowingly. They lure with discounts and perks, but the long-term interest can balloon your debt far beyond your original purchases. Opting for cheap products that break easily results in repeatedly buying replacements, doubling your expenses. It's often wiser to invest in fewer but higher-quality items that last longer. Subscriptions forgotten on your account—like streaming services, apps, or magazines—can keep charging you monthly even if you no longer use them. Routinely reviewing and cancelling unneeded subscriptions is crucial to stop this hidden leak of funds. Purchases of productivity kits—motivational planners, notebooks, or productivity apps—that remain untouched highlight the trap of buying motivation rather than cultivating it. These are costs without real returns. Paying only minimum amounts on credit cards can cause interest to accumulate rapidly, making your debt harder to pay off. Prioritizing full or larger payments helps avoid excessive interest fees. Lastly, fast fashion hauls, though fun for vibes, can be terrible for your wallet and the environment. Investing in sustainable, versatile clothing pieces saves money and reduces waste. By identifying and adjusting these nine money-wasting habits, you can create a healthier financial path and avoid unnecessary expenses that don’t enhance your life long-term. Saving is not just about big cuts but stopping the small leaks in your spending habits.

33 comments

marybouldin382's images
marybouldin382

Thank you so much for your guidance 🙏

Dave the Da ncer's images
Dave the Da ncer

this a post Im glad I stopped here!

See more comments

Related posts

5 Things That Are a Waste of Money in College
💸 5 Things That Are a Waste of Money in College 💸 Read the caption ⬇️ 📚 Brand-New Textbooks – Always check for used, rentals, or free PDFs first. 🍽️ Expensive Meal Plans – If you’re barely eating on campus, it’s not worth the cost. 🛋️ Trendy Dorm Décor – Keep it simple—most of it won’t fit or
The College Survival

The College Survival

17 likes

8 Things That Are Truly A Waste Of Time
8 Things That Are Truly A Waste Of Time #waste #lifeadvice #lifelessons #lifetip #Lemon8
It’s The Real Jay Anthony

It’s The Real Jay Anthony

272 likes

0/10 please DO NOT waste your money
Ugh, I bought every single of them on this slide and I dislike them ALL. 0/10. Please note that this is my opinion and experience. #tjmaxxperfume #tjmaxxperfumefinds #beautyfinds #shareyourthoughts #Lemon8Diary
K.phase

K.phase

2150 likes

How I Save Money With These Sustainable Swaps 🤎🐻
Looking for easy ways to save money and live more sustainably? These budget-friendly reusable swaps have helped me cut back on monthly expenses while reducing waste. I use reusable paper towels instead of constantly buying disposables, and dryer balls that replace single-use dryer sheets — they las
stephanie.knudsen

stephanie.knudsen

6142 likes

Dietitian’s 5 Simple Actions to Reduce Food Waste
Dietitian's 5 Simple Actions to Reduce Food Waste By Registered Dietitian Maya 🍋 🌍Reducing food waste is a crucial step towards a more sustainable lifestyle. Not only does it help save money, but it also has a positive impact on the environment. 🍋In today’s Lemon8 post, we'll explo
Maya

Maya

80 likes

A red cover of 'The Intelligent Investor' by Benjamin Graham, with text overlays indicating it might be a waste of time for general finance readers. The image suggests this book is not recommended for most people.
Finance books that aren’t a waste of time
📚 My Favorite Finance Reads! 📚 Okay, look, I LOVE "The Intelligent Investor," but let's be real—it's a BEAST. Most of it dives so deep into valuing companies and analyzing documents that it can be overwhelming and boring for the average person. If you want to gain confidence i
Kalib Koons

Kalib Koons

37 likes

A smiling woman with long dark hair gestures, presenting a list titled '50 things to do so you don't waste another year'. A pink neon sign 'This is where the magic happens' is on the wall behind her. The image includes Lemon8 branding and the user @nataliemalele.
Don’t waste another year scrolling
Clarity and self-respect 1. Decide what kind of woman you are becoming. Write it down. 2. Stop waiting to “feel ready.” 3. Make one promise to yourself and actually keep it. 4. Wake up before your excuses do. 5. Spend 10 minutes alone every morning with no phone. 6. Remove one thing fro
Natalie Malele | Newborn Life

Natalie Malele | Newborn Life

0 likes

An image featuring the title "HOW TO START ETSY ADS" in white distressed font, with "START" on a pink brushstroke. A laptop and a notebook with checkboxes are visible on a dark desk. Decorative elements like a heart and stars are also present.
Don’t Waste Your Money on Etsy Ads!
Save this before you turn on Etsy Ads. A lot of Etsy sellers start ads before the listing is ready. They have a few products up, traffic feels slow, and Etsy Ads start to look like the next logical step. So they set a daily budget, turn on a bunch of listings, and wait for the sales to come i
Mocksy.io

Mocksy.io

11 likes

low income money tips for inflation 💸💲💰
Inflation doesn’t just raise prices — it exposes how tight low-income budgets already are. If your money feels harder to manage lately, it’s not because you’re failing. Essentials like groceries, rent, gas, and utilities are taking up more of your income, leaving less room to breathe. That’s why
Jessica | LIFESTYLE 💕

Jessica | LIFESTYLE 💕

502 likes

A person in a black blazer with dollar bills tucked into the front, with text overlay "DONT Waste Your Money On These ❌" indicating the article's theme.
Various makeup products, including lipsticks and lip oils, with text questioning the need for multiple similar nude lipsticks, highlighting unnecessary makeup purchases.
A glass of water with pills and capsules on a surface, accompanied by text advising against buying supplements without understanding their purpose.
Stop Wasting Money on These Things 💸
Girl math isn’t saving you if you’re spending on the wrong stuff 😩💅 Read this before your next impulse buy 👀 #MoneyTrap #SmartSpending #BudgetBaddie #FinancialGlowUp #GirlMathEra
Jazmine

Jazmine

43 likes

A desk with a computer monitor, a mug, and a notebook, displaying the title 'Things I don't Waste My money on' and a 'SWIPE' prompt.
Text overlays on a blurred background listing 'Expensive Coffee' and 'Extended Warranties' as things not to waste money on, with explanations for each.
Text overlays on a blurred background listing 'Unused Subscriptions' and 'Fast Fashion' as things not to waste money on, with explanations for each.
Things I don’t waste my money on🌸🥰
Remember, the key to successful financial management is not just about how much you earn but also about how effectively you control your spending and saving also don’t forget investing always try your best to invest a little there are ways to invest $50. You can invest as little as $50 in real
Inashwealth

Inashwealth

24 likes

An infographic titled "Tourist Traps That Waste The Most Money" lists 8 common travel pitfalls like airport taxis, overpriced restaurants, and last-minute bookings. It explains why they are expensive and offers smart traveler tips to save money, encouraging planning ahead and spending wisely for better experiences.
Tourist Traps That Waste The Most Money 🚫💸
Not every popular attraction is worth the price. Some of the biggest travel budget killers include airport taxis, overpriced restaurants near major landmarks, airport currency exchanges, expensive roaming plans, last-minute bookings, and souvenir shops located inside tourist hotspots. For exampl
Travel with midz!

Travel with midz!

54 likes

A hand holds a pink smoothie in a mason jar with a metal straw, set against a sunny outdoor background of green foliage. Text overlay reads "Cut costs on food" and indicates a swipe for more information.
An overhead view displays fresh ingredients like salmon, vegetables, fruits, and eggs surrounding an open notebook and pen. The image illustrates the first step: "PLAN YOUR MEALS" to avoid impulse purchases.
A refrigerator shelf holds various food containers, some labeled with dates, showcasing properly stored fruits, vegetables, and leftovers. This image highlights "STEP 2: STORE FOOD PROPERLY" to extend food longevity.
How to Prevent Food Waste & Save Money
Reducing food waste is a powerful way to save more money. I plan my meals, store food properly, and shop smart to make the most of what I buy. These simple habits help me cut costs and waste less. Swipe to learn how to save more through smarter food choices! 🌟 #lemon8partner #moneytips #per
Kevin’s Templates

Kevin’s Templates

8 likes

Flowers are never a waste of money 🥰
First of many valentines to come 🤞 🥺❤️ #valentinesday2026
Ms.tabbytabs, RDH 👩🏼‍⚕️

Ms.tabbytabs, RDH 👩🏼‍⚕️

15 likes

A woman in a light blue athletic top and shorts takes a mirror selfie, with text overlay "3 things i no longer waste money on," introducing the topic of budgeting.
A woman in pink athletic wear and headphones takes a mirror selfie in a bedroom, with text overlay "1. overpriced matcha/coffee," relating to saving on drinks.
Two paddleboards stand on a sandy beach with the ocean and sky in the background, accompanied by text "2. spending money on entertainment daily," suggesting free activities.
3 things i no longer waste money on
As a 23 year old graduate student, I have learned the important of budgeting and finding ways to cut daily costs. 3 things that I stopped wasting money on are 1. overpriced matcha/coffee at local cafes. Each latte is usually $8-$10, and it adds up quickly when you go often. 2. spending money on
annie🎀⭐️👼🏼

annie🎀⭐️👼🏼

39 likes

How to Prevent Food Waste & Save Money
• Opt for frozen vegetables and fruit - they don’t go bad! • If you have leftovers or fruit/veggies that are going bad, you can freeze them and use them at a later time! I use frozen fruits for smoothies and frozen veggies for soups or casseroles. • For salads, take them out of the bag and stor
Abby

Abby

1411 likes

Make Money Teaching What You Already Know
How to Make Money Teaching What You Already Know (Step-by-Step Guide) Making money online doesn’t have to be complicated. You don’t need a big audience, a perfect setup, or a fancy background. You just need one clear skill, one real result, and a simple way to teach it. This post breaks dow
fig3lvls

fig3lvls

614 likes

8 Habits That Waste Time and Drain Your Energy
8 Everyday Habits That Quietly Drain Your Time and Energy Some things look harmless on the surface, but they quietly drain your time, energy, and focus. This post lays out 8 habits that feel normal but are actually holding you back. If you’ve ever felt stuck, scattered, or like you’re spinning y
fig3lvls

fig3lvls

82 likes

A pink iPad with a clear case and stickers, displaying the title 'How I use my iPad and why it's not a waste of money' over a blurry background.
A cracked iPad screen showing a 'Games' folder with various app icons like Fortnite, Sims FreePlay, and Stardew Valley, with text 'Games!!!'.
A cracked iPad screen displaying the Twitch app, showing live and followed channels, with text 'Twitch!' and a comment about watching people in real-time.
How I use my iPad and why it’s not a waste🥰🍋
I think it may be time for me to get a new screen protector😭 #Lemon8 #ipadgirlie #ipadgames #fyplemon8
🫪

🫪

1798 likes

A black quilted wallet rests on a pile of US dollar bills, with pink text overlayed saying "THINGS I WON'T SPEND MONEY ON" and a "Swipe" arrow, indicating the start of a list.
A black quilted wallet on US dollar bills, with text indicating a refusal to spend on "Designer Clothes, Handbags & Shoes" because similar items cost much less.
A black quilted wallet on US dollar bills, with text stating a refusal to spend on a "Nail salon" because the individual can do their nails themselves and save money.
What I won’t spend money on! 💸💵
There are a lot of things I won’t spend money on, but here are some of the things that come to the top my mind. I will not buy anything designer, including clothes, handbags, or shoes. There are a ton of great quality items for a fraction of the price of designer items. I don’t see the point in
Kylie 💸🫶🏻

Kylie 💸🫶🏻

508 likes

Low Waste Cleaning That Saves Me Money ♻️
A few years ago, I realized I was constantly buying new cleaning products, throwing away paper towels like crazy, and going through way more plastic than I liked. To save money and help the environment, I started switching things up. Here are a few of my go-to methods for a low waste cleaning routi
Anna Brynn

Anna Brynn

39 likes

Flowers are never a waste of money 🥰
First of many valentines to come 🤞 🥺❤️ #valentinesday2026
Ms.tabbytabs, RDH 👩🏼‍⚕️

Ms.tabbytabs, RDH 👩🏼‍⚕️

12 likes

A black and white photo of a person with yellow text overlay that reads "5 THINGS STUDENTS SHOULDN'T BE SPENDING MONEY ON," introducing a guide on student budgeting.
A dining table with two plates of food, one with waffles and another with eggs benedict and salad, illustrating the point about avoiding excessive dining out.
A close-up shot of an open book with text, emphasizing the advice against buying brand new textbooks for students.
Don’t spend your money on these items:
Finances as a student can be dry difficult to manage if you don’t know how to control your spending, and on what you shouldn’t waste your money on. Here are 5 thinks you should not be spending your money on: 1. Going out to eat 2. A new textbook 3. Unnecessary subscriptions 4. Trendy fashio
essynotes

essynotes

112 likes

A flat lay of various beauty products, including a gentle skin cleanser, a makeup sponge, a lip product, eye masks, and body butter, labeled as a 'Beauty Betrayal List' from a discount store.
A hand holding a clear tube of lip product with a pink cap, accompanied by text indicating dissatisfaction with its packaging.
A hand holding a bottle of gentle skin cleanser, with text expressing negative feedback about its effectiveness.
Don't waste your $1.25 on these products
Dollar Tree has good products, yes, but not all of them are worth your $1.25. Today I show you what a waste of money is for me. @Lemon8 Beauty #beautybetrayallist #lemon8beauty #lemon8challenge #roxyskincare
Roxy H

Roxy H

518 likes

This image shows a gym interior with an overlay of monthly Gold's Gym membership charges of $37.89 each, illustrating the cost of a gym membership.
This image displays YouTube search results for free Pilates workouts, including full body and core routines, demonstrating how to find free at-home exercise options.
This image features an Orangetheory advertisement offering a 'FIRST CLASS FREE,' illustrating the option to search for free class passes at gyms.
DON’T Waste Money on a Gym Membership!
STOP wasting money on an expensive gym membership each month! Instead you can: 1. Use YouTube to find free workouts: you can search up your favorite type of workout and follow along at home. Some videos require equipment and some don't! 2. Search for free class passes at gyms/studios in y
kaylakoupons

kaylakoupons

339 likes

A hand holds folded US dollar bills next to a beige Coach wallet. Red text overlay states, "3 things you should never spend money on," with a red arrow pointing right, illustrating a financial advice topic.
A hand holds US dollar bills next to a wallet. Pink text overlays advise on "Unused memberships & subscriptions," suggesting cancellation and rejoining to save money if not fully utilized.
A hand holds US dollar bills next to a wallet. Pink text overlays discuss "Credit card Late fees & interest," emphasizing that rates are high and cards should only be used if paid in full and on time.
Don’t waste your money on these 3 things💰💸💖
Some things you are just throwing your money away! Here are some of the most obvious things on my list! 💰unused memberships and subscriptions- most of them you can cancel without penalty at any time so there’s no reason not to cancel and rejoin. For example if you’re going to have a busy month,
Kylie 💸🫶🏻

Kylie 💸🫶🏻

555 likes

A flat lay image showing a laptop, AirPods case, jewelry, and two drinks on a wooden table. The text overlay reads "Things I regret buying as a student" and "$$$", setting the theme for the article about student purchases.
An overhead shot of a desk with headphones, several highlighters, and pens. An orange text box warns against "A MILLION HIGHLIGHTERS," stating that one or two colors are sufficient, aligning with the article's advice.
A tablet displays a digital planner with a 2025 calendar. An orange text box advises against "EXPENSIVE PLANNERS," suggesting that Google Calendar or a cheap notebook is more practical, reflecting the article's point.
College things that are actually a waste 🤷‍♀️
Things I regret buying as a student (save your $$) Hot take: most “student starter pack” videos are ✨aesthetic scams✨ Pretty? Yes. Necessary? Nope. Here’s what I personally regret buying as a student: ❌ Too many pastel highlighters (I only ever used 2 colors) ❌ Fancy planners (Google
Meredith Jao

Meredith Jao

24 likes

How to Prevent Food Waste & Save Money
Cutting costs doesn’t have to be complicated. I cut unused subscriptions, cook at home, and stay smart about shopping to save money without sacrificing what matters. These simple steps help me keep more of my income. Swipe to learn how to reduce expenses today! 🌟 #lemon8partner #moneytips #
Kevin’s Templates

Kevin’s Templates

4 likes

A woman with long, wavy brown hair looks at the camera. An overlay reads, 'Things I bought for my hair that were a total waste of money 🫠'. The Lemon8 logo and username are visible in the corner.
A small amber and black bottle of hair oil is centered on a purple background. Text below it reads '10/10 i hate waking up with silkier hair', indicating a sarcastic review.
A white tube with cartoonish graphics, identified as a hair treatment, is displayed on a purple background. Text below it reads '9/10 i miss my split ends', conveying a sarcastic sentiment.
Things I bought for my hair that were a total waste of money 🫠
#productsforhair #hairgrowth #hairgrowthroutine #usa #shampoo
Coach Anna

Coach Anna

2 likes

Books aren’t a waste of money 😌📚
This is your sign to treat yourself to a bookstore trip this weekend! 🤭📚✨ #lemon8bookclub #bookshopping #reading #booklover #bookstore
Bethany Taylor

Bethany Taylor

965 likes

8 Things That Are Truly A Waste Of Time
8 Things That Are Truly A Waste Of Time #lifeadvice #lifelessons #motivation #RealTalk #Lemon8
It’s The Real Jay Anthony

It’s The Real Jay Anthony

8 likes

Things I bought for my baby that were a total waste of money 💰
#babyproducts #babyessentials #babyproductregrets #nesting #nestingmode
mama_lifetips

mama_lifetips

1 like

🚫💸 Don’t Waste Money: L2 Safety Cert Guide
❗️Must Read: Expert Tips! 🔍The biggest pitfall in charger shopping is "safety"! I don't need to tell you how crucial UL Certification is in North America, right? 💯RippleOn passed rigorous UL testing, unlike some generic labels. For your car and family, safety is always first! Re
EvaLane68

EvaLane68

1 like

An overhead view shows various luxury items on a wooden floor, including handbags, wallets, a belt, slippers, and a jewelry box. Text overlay reads "DON'T WASTE YOUR MONEY No Buy List," aligning with the article's theme of avoiding unnecessary luxury purchases.
What NOT to waste your money on!!
Here’s a list of all the luxury things that you don’t need so don’t even waste your time or money on them!! Here’s a straightforward, no-fluff list of “luxury” items that usually aren’t worth the money, because you’re paying mostly for branding, hype, or a temporary feeling—not lasting value.
LetsBeBestieBoos

LetsBeBestieBoos

37 likes

A hand holds a fan of twenty-dollar bills, with text overlays about not wasting money and growing savings. Small winged money icons are visible above the text.
Various boxes of press-on nails are displayed on a marble surface, with a text overlay indicating 'Getting my NAILS DONE'.
Two small, luxury-style wallets or cardholders, one black and one brown monogrammed, are shown with a text overlay 'Authentic Luxury PURSES/WALLETS'.
Things I won’t waste my money on 💸🤑💰
Some people choose to spend money on these and i love that for them but for me its a simple way to grow to grow my savings. As a full-time student,, and self employed mom i like to aware of how i can utilize my money the best way for my situation. 1, NAILS 💅🏻 I use glue on nails, they take less t
🤎⚡️gigi⚡️🤎

🤎⚡️gigi⚡️🤎

181 likes

The front door of The WasteShed, an art thrift store, featuring colorful letters spelling out its name. Various signs on the glass indicate accessibility, store hours, and a 'Puppy Friendly' welcome, reflecting its community-oriented and inclusive nature.
An interior view of The WasteShed, showcasing shelves and drawers filled with a wide array of art and craft supplies. Markers, paints, and various creative materials are neatly organized, highlighting the store's diverse inventory for artists and DIY enthusiasts.
A close-up of a display table inside The WasteShed, featuring an assortment of jewelry, beads, and small craft items. Necklaces, bracelets, and other accessories are arranged on stands and in containers, suggesting a section for unique findings or jewelry-making supplies.
The WasteShed – Chicago’s Art Thrift Store
Looking for affordable art supplies? The WasteShed in Logan Square is a hidden gem for creatives! This art thrift store is all about sustainability—offering heavily discounted, lightly used supplies while also giving artists a place to donate their unused materials. 🎨 Find budget-friendly paints
Lily Brown

Lily Brown

159 likes

Things I do to limit waste and benefit the farm
Eggs shells for the Garden 🪴 🌱 Benefits of Eggshells in the Garden 1. Adds Calcium to the Soil Eggshells are about 95% calcium carbonate, which is important for plants like tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants to prevent blossom end rot. 2. Soil Amendment Crushed eggshells decom
Sav

Sav

111 likes

Things I bought that were total waste of money 😣💸
#babyessentials #nestingmode #pregnantlife #babyshower
cara.hairroutine

cara.hairroutine

20 likes

Don't Waste Money Like This🫶
Using Up your Tokens and Credits for bad ai generation? Dont do that! No pickup required, instantly delivered and downloaded. Once you get the 1:1 Builder you have Me to help you step by step THROUGH the process. Its so frustrating learning something new, thats why Im Here. If you want to
Ree

Ree

1 like

A graphic titled 'Mom Freezer Hacks That Actually Save Money' illustrates six tips: 1. Cool food before freezing, showing a steaming dish. 2. Label everything, with labeled freezer bags of chicken, beef, and soup. 3. Freeze in family portions, showing spaghetti in various portion sizes. 4. Lay bags flat to save space, displaying stacked flat bags. 5. Use freezer-safe containers, showing appropriate containers. 6. First in, first out rule, with 'use first' and 'newer items' baskets.
Mom Freezer Hacks That Actually Save Money ❄️💸
Groceries are expensive, life is busy, and sometimes the freezer is the only thing standing between us and ordering takeout again. 😅 These simple freezer habits help reduce food waste, make meal prep easier, and save serious money over time. ❄️ 1. Cool Food Before Freezing Putting hot food s
Taiana 🍳

Taiana 🍳

287 likes

I love my waste of money
McLaren Senna #fromthecar #jeremyclarkson #masterpieceonwheels #mclarensenna #topgear
AllThingsFast

AllThingsFast

7 likes

Money Saving Tips💵
Hello my loves! I wanted to share a few tips on how you can cut back on spending this year or month. Coffee is something a lot of us buy on a daily and we waste so much money which could be going into our savings. Opt for making your own coffee at home or invest in a coffee maker to save mon
Jareli🎀

Jareli🎀

537 likes

See more