Last updated on December 2nd, 2023 at 11:48 pm
Coffee. For many, it’s the only way to start the day. And after you have multiples, you probably drink more than ever before. But the stops at the local coffee shop on the way to work, doctor’s appointments, or after taking kids to school can add up to a large expense, not to mention the temptation to order a more expensive specialty drink and a muffin. In need of a few coffee savings tips?
Unless you are independently wealthy, you could probably find 30,000 other things to do with 6 bucks a day. So how can you save money and still get your much-needed cup of joe? Make it at home, of course.
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And seriously, when you’re a twin parent, you need to think long and hard about saving money where you can. I won’t lie, I do love me my oatmilk brown sugar shaken espresso from Starbucks but I can’t have one every day. Sadly, it’s just too expensive.
Before you know which homemade option is best for you, you first have to consider this question: what is most important about your coffee? Is it convenience, minimal clean-up, taste, freshness, or cost? Also, count how many cups you will drink a day and how far apart you typically drink them. Then you can determine how you should make it at home. Here are some options.
Drip Coffee Makers
These are the most popular home coffee makers and the most cost-efficient. The most basic coffee makers start at $20 and can cost as much as $200. You can buy single-serving makers or make a whole pot that can make up to 12 cups of coffee. (A cup of coffee may yield only 4 oz., so check the specifications on the model before you purchase.) You simply scoop coffee grounds into a disposable filter for each 6 oz. of water, fill a reservoir with water and wait for it to brew. Some models have built-in grinders to give you the option to use whole beans, though keep in mind that a self-grinder requires more parts to clean.
The cost per cup will be determined by the type of beans you buy and how strong you like your coffee. On average an 11 oz. can of coffee costs around $5 and will make about 30 cups giving you a cup for about $.16. A pound of whole beans usually costs about $8.00 makes about 45 cups which is about $.18 per cup, only a $.02 difference for freshness. The average cost is only $62.05 a year. Consider too, if you drink your coffee spaced out through the day, a thermal pot might be a feature to look for to keep it hot.
Keurig
This is a coffee maker that dispenses one cup at a time from pre-measured pods called K-cups. This coffee maker may be better if you are only making one or two cups a day or have limited time to prepare and clean up, or you like hazelnut-flavored and your spouse likes dark. You just turn it on to heat the water, pop in a K-cup, and punch the button. Toss the K-cup after it has dispensed your coffee. The Keurig machines start at around $99 and go up to $179. The added features of the higher-priced models is a water reservoir so there is no need to add water each time you make a cup and a programmable feature to have your coffee ready for you at 6:00 AM sharp (who doesn’t love to wake up to the smell of coffee?). These machines brew from 6-12 oz cups depending on the model.
If you like the convenience of the Keurig but wish to cut your costs, you can use coffee grounds instead of pre-measured k-cups by purchasing a reusable filter (usually sold separately for $4-$5) you slip right into the coffee pod and measuring out your coffee yourself.
A Combo Coffee Machine
Get the best of both worlds with a combination machine. We have one that makes a pot for me and a single-serve for my husband since we wake up at different hours and don’t like the same coffee. Plus, my office is upstairs so I don’t want to go down and wait for each cup to brew as I go. This might be the perfect setup for your house, too!
Espresso Machine
Prefer the taste of espresso? Espresso machines are available for your home countertop or stovetop. This may require more clean-up and skill depending on the device you purchase. The average cost of an espresso machine is $75 but can range from $25 to $1,000. The type of beans you buy will determine the price per cup. Some of the more advanced machines come with a steamer and a bean grinder. The options are numerable, so make sure you do your research before you buy. If you are a coffee connoisseur, this is the option for you.
No matter how you enjoy your jolt of caffeine, we hope you have a great day! Keep Calm and Carry On!
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