Frugal Myth Bustersby Mary Ann Romans | More from this Blogger 26 Jun 2007 07:56 AM In the course of our frugal lifestyles, there are various bits of advice that may or may not be true. Some of these myths I have busted on my own or through research, while others are still out there bouncing around in my head. Are they true or not? Can you help me out? Following is a list of some common myths. I'll share the ones that I have busted or proved. But, I could really use your experience, too! Are there any "open" myths on this list that you can tell me about? Are there any other myths out there that you have come across? I have two that have been on my mind lately. Here we go! Cold water boils faster. I first heard this myth from older relatives. Growing up in lean times, they really knew how to pinch pennies. I was told that you can save money in heating time by starting out with cold water instead of warm, because it will boil faster. Status: Busted. I've tried several experiments and the warm water always boiled faster. Of course, for cost savings, it is probably still more frugal to boil cold water that hot, because I bet it costs more to heat the water through the house to get to the faucet than it does to heat it on the stove from cold to warm. Resting sheets between uses makes them last longer. If you allow your sheets to rest folded in your drawer or closet between uses instead of just washing, drying and replacing them on your bed, the fabric will last longer. Status: Open. I can't see that this will make any difference, unless there is some logic in the fabric being stretched while on the bed and then given time to relax back into shape? Anyone have any opinions on this? Want to see more frugal myth busters? Just leave a comment. Mary Ann Romans also writes for the Computing Blog here at Families.com where she shares everything from the latest news on technology to cool downloads and fun websites. Related Articles: How Far Will You Go to Be Frugal? (1) How Far Will You Go to Be Frugal? (2) Learn more about Mary Ann Romans  Mary Ann Romans is a freelance writer, wife and mother of three children. She lives in Pennsylvania with her husband, the kids and a 16-pound cat. Relevantfrugal tags User Comments kk1 (16) 25 Jan 2009 03:40 AMRe: Resting sheets between uses makes them last longer. I must point out that this means owning 2 sets of bedding! Double the cost, storage space for the spare etc. I own 1 set. I strip the bed, wash sheets with the Duggars homemade recipe laundry powder (I know i should put a link but a quick search will find it!) In summer (all 3 weeks of it her in UK) I hang everything outside and in winter put it on radiators,rotating as it dries or on an airer. As soon as it is dry I replace it on the beds and it smells fresh so no need for air freshners or room fragrance. I vote for busted! I suppose these people have 2 outfits of clothing also... Ok I was joking about the clothing!  Mary Ann Romans |
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