Six smart ways to overcome the cost of living crisis when living alone

IT isn’t just families being hit by the cost of living.

Single folk are also feeling the pinch — and they have to pay all the bills on their own.

Here are some smart ways solo households can save.

COOK SMART: Microwaves, electric pressure cookers and air fryers all use much less energy than ovens, so using these instead will save you money. An Essentials compact solo microwave is down from £64.99 to £49.99 at Currys.

GO SLOW: Slow cookers use the same energy as a light bulb and can cook the roasts and stews that a microwave can’t manage. George at Asda has a compact slow cooker, perfect for one to two portions, for £13.

LITTLE WINS: With a Tesco Clubcard you can buy four mini bottles of wine (187ml) for the price of three, including Hardys Crest Cabernet Shiraz or Chardonnay, £2 each. That means you get 75cl for £6 — the same amount as a full-sized bottle but £1 cheaper.

BILL SAVVY: Newly solo? You can get a 25 per cent reduction on council tax if you live alone.

Swapping to an efficient shower head and limiting showers to four minutes could save one person around £60 a year on water and energy bills.

GROW YOUR OWN: It’s easier to grow food for one than for a whole family. Start with salad leaves by popping a Wilko Italian leaf grow bucket, £1.50, on your windowsill.

FREEZE!: Single-person households tend to waste more food than larger families, often because it doesn’t get used up before it goes off. Avoid waste by cooking recipes for four and freezing leftover portions, so you’ll have a freezer full of ready meals. For more great tips, see .

• All prices correct at time of going to press. Deals and offers subject to availability.

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