Business
15 Profitable Side Hustles for Extra Money
In today’s fast-paced world, many of us are searching for ways to boost our income and achieve financial freedom. Whether you’re saving for a dream vacation, paying off debt, or simply looking to pad your savings account, a side hustle can be the perfect solution. The beauty of side hustles is that they offer flexibility, allowing you to work around your existing commitments and pursue something you’re passionate about. From creative endeavors to service-oriented gigs, there’s a side hustle out there for everyone.
In this article, we’ll explore 15 exciting side hustle ideas based on the Side Hustle Database that can help you make extra money while doing something you enjoy.
1. Become an IRL or Online Tutor
Tutoring is a flexible side hustle that can be done in person (IRL) or online. It involves helping students improve their understanding of specific subjects, ranging from elementary school topics to college-level courses. Online platforms such as Tutor.com or Wyzant can connect you with students, while local advertisements can help you find in-person opportunities.
According to Side Hustles Database, tutors can earn between $15 to $100 per hour, depending on their expertise and the subject matter. Specialized subjects like advanced mathematics or science can command higher rates. Online platforms may take a commission, but they also provide a steady stream of students.
How to Get Started:
- Identify your subject expertise and target audience.
- Create a profile on tutoring platforms or advertise locally.
- Set competitive rates based on your experience and market demand.
- Prepare teaching materials and schedule sessions according to your availability.
2. Start a Blog or Newsletter
Blogging or creating a newsletter allows you to share your knowledge, hobbies, or interests with a broader audience. This side hustle requires consistent content creation and audience engagement. Platforms like WordPress or Substack can help you get started with minimal upfront costs.
Income from blogging or newsletters can vary widely. Successful bloggers can earn from $100 to several thousand dollars per month through advertising, affiliate marketing, sponsored content, and selling products or services.
How to Get Started:
- Choose a niche that you are passionate about and has an audience.
- Set up a blog using platforms like WordPress or start a newsletter with Substack.
- Consistently create valuable content to grow your audience.
- Monetize your blog through ads, affiliate links, or selling products.
Learn more about how to make money with blogging here.
3. Become a Transcriber or Translator
Transcription involves converting audio files into written text, while translation requires converting text from one language to another. Both roles demand excellent listening and language skills. Websites like Rev and Upwork offer opportunities for transcribers and translators.
Transcribers can earn between $15 to $30 per hour, while translators might earn $20 to $50 per hour, depending on language pairs and expertise. Specialized fields like legal or medical translation can offer higher pay.
How to Get Started:
- Assess your language skills and choose a niche.
- Sign up on platforms like Rev, TranscribeMe, or Upwork.
- Complete sample tests to demonstrate your skills.
- Build a portfolio and gather client testimonials to increase your rates.
4. Start a Podcast
Podcasting involves creating audio content on topics of interest. It can be a great way to share your expertise or entertain an audience. Platforms like Anchor or Spotify make it easy to distribute your podcast to a wide audience.
Podcasters can earn money through sponsorships, listener donations, and merchandise sales. While initial earnings might be low, successful podcasts can generate significant income once they build a large audience.
How to Get Started:
- Choose a podcast niche and format.
- Invest in quality recording equipment and editing software.
- Record and edit your episodes, then publish them on platforms like Anchor.
- Promote your podcast through social media and collaborate with other podcasters.
5. Rent Out Your Home or a Spare Room
Renting out your home or a spare room can be a lucrative side hustle, especially if you live in a desirable location. Platforms like Airbnb or Vrbo connect you with travelers looking for short-term accommodations.
Earnings depend on location, property type, and rental frequency. Hosts can earn anywhere from $500 to several thousand dollars per month. Special events or peak tourist seasons can significantly increase your income.
How to Get Started:
- Prepare your space by ensuring it is clean and well-furnished.
- Create a listing on platforms like Airbnb, including high-quality photos and a detailed description.
- Set competitive pricing based on local market rates.
- Manage bookings and communicate promptly with guests to maintain high ratings.
6. Offer Pet Sitting and Dog Walking Services
Pet sitting and dog walking are ideal for animal lovers who want to earn extra income. These services involve caring for pets while their owners are away, which can include feeding, walking, and providing companionship. This side hustle offers flexibility and the opportunity to work with a variety of animals.
Pet sitters and dog walkers can earn between $15 to $30 per hour, depending on location and the services offered. Additional services such as overnight stays or pet grooming can increase earnings.
How to Get Started:
- Decide on the types of services you will offer (e.g., walking, sitting, overnight care).
- Create a business plan, including pricing and service areas.
- Obtain necessary licenses and insurance to operate legally.
- Market your services through social media, local advertisements, and by joining platforms like Rover or Wag.
7. Deliver Groceries and Other Items
Delivering groceries and other items is a convenient side hustle for those who enjoy driving and want to work flexible hours. This involves picking up and delivering orders to customers’ homes using apps like Instacart, DoorDash, or Uber Eats.
Drivers can earn between $10 to $25 per hour, with potential tips increasing overall income. Earnings depend on location, demand, and the number of deliveries completed.
How to Get Started:
- Sign up with delivery platforms such as Instacart, DoorDash, or Uber Eats.
- Ensure you have a reliable vehicle and smartphone.
- Familiarize yourself with the app’s interface and delivery procedures.
- Begin accepting delivery requests and aim to provide excellent customer service to earn tips.
8. Become an Affiliate Marketer
Affiliate marketing involves promoting products or services and earning a commission on sales made through your referral links. This can be done through blogs, social media, or YouTube channels. It’s a low-cost way to start earning passive income.
Affiliate marketers can earn from a few hundred to thousands of dollars per month, depending on their audience size and engagement. Commissions typically range from 5% to 30% per sale.
How to Get Started:
- Choose a niche that aligns with your interests and expertise.
- Create a platform (blog, social media, YouTube) to share content and affiliate links.
- Join affiliate programs through networks like Amazon Associates, ShareASale, or ClickBank.
- Produce valuable content that encourages your audience to make purchases through your links.
9. Mow Lawns and Do Other Landscaping Tasks
Lawn care and landscaping are excellent side hustles for those who enjoy working outdoors. Services can include mowing, trimming, planting, and general garden maintenance. This work is seasonal but can be highly lucrative during peak months.
Earnings can range from $30 to $50 per hour, depending on the services offered and the local market. Specialized services like landscape design can command higher rates.
How to Get Started:
- Acquire basic landscaping tools like a lawnmower, trimmer, and rake.
- Research local market demand and set competitive prices.
- Advertise your services through flyers, social media, and local community boards.
- Provide high-quality service to build a loyal client base and gain referrals.
10. Monetize a YouTube Channel
Creating and monetizing a YouTube channel involves producing video content on topics you are passionate about. Monetization can occur through ads, sponsorships, and merchandise sales. This side hustle requires creativity and consistency.
YouTube earnings vary widely, from a few dollars to thousands per month. Income is generated through ad revenue, sponsorships, and viewer donations. Building a large, engaged audience is key to maximizing earnings.
How to Get Started:
- Choose a niche and create a YouTube account.
- Produce high-quality, engaging videos and upload them consistently.
- Apply for the YouTube Partner Program once you meet the eligibility criteria (1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours).
- Explore additional revenue streams like sponsorships and merchandise sales.
11. Start a Dropshipping Business
Dropshipping is an e-commerce business model where you sell products online without holding any inventory. Instead, when a customer makes a purchase, the order is fulfilled by a third-party supplier who ships the product directly to the customer. This model minimizes upfront costs and allows you to focus on marketing and customer service.
Dropshipping can be highly profitable, with some entrepreneurs earning over $100,000 annually. However, profit margins can be slim, typically ranging from 15% to 20% due to competition and supplier costs.
How to Get Started:
- Choose a Niche: Identify a target market with high demand and low competition.
- Find Reliable Suppliers: Use platforms like AliExpress or SaleHoo to find suppliers with quality products and good reputations.
- Set Up an Online Store: Create an e-commerce website using platforms like Shopify or WooCommerce.
- Market Your Store: Utilize social media, SEO, and paid advertising to attract customers.
12. Become a Rideshare Driver
Rideshare driving involves using your vehicle to transport passengers via platforms like Uber or Lyft. It offers flexible working hours and the opportunity to meet new people while earning money.
Earnings vary by location and demand, ranging from $5 to $26 per hour. Drivers can increase their income through tips, bonuses, and surge pricing during peak hours.
How to Get Started:
- Meet Requirements: Ensure you have a valid driver’s license, a reliable four-door vehicle, and meet age and driving experience criteria.
- Sign Up: Apply through the rideshare platform’s website and complete the necessary background checks.
- Familiarize Yourself with the App: Learn how to use the app effectively to manage rides and maximize earnings.
13. Participate in Paid Online Surveys
Paid online surveys are a simple way to earn extra money by providing feedback to companies on their products and services. This side hustle can be done from home and requires minimal effort.
While not highly lucrative, survey takers can earn a modest income, typically enough to cover small expenses like utility bills or daily coffee. Earnings vary based on the number of surveys completed and the platforms used.
How to Get Started:
- Sign Up on Reputable Platforms: Join sites like Swagbucks, InboxDollars, or Branded Surveys.
- Complete Your Profile: Ensure your profile is accurate to receive relevant survey opportunities.
- Set a Schedule: Dedicate specific times to completing surveys to maximize consistency and earnings.
14. Give Tours of Your Neighborhood
Neighborhood tours involve showcasing local attractions, history, and culture to tourists or new residents. This side hustle is ideal for those with a passion for storytelling and local knowledge.
Tour guides can charge per person or group, with rates varying based on the tour’s length and uniqueness. Earnings can be substantial, especially in tourist-heavy areas.
How to Get Started:
- Research Local Requirements: Check if your city requires a license or certification to conduct tours.
- Design Your Tour: Create a unique itinerary highlighting interesting stories and landmarks.
- Advertise Your Services: Use platforms like Airbnb Experiences or local tourism websites to reach potential clients.
15. Offer Digital Marketing Services
Digital marketing involves promoting products or services online through various channels such as social media, SEO, and email marketing. This side hustle is well-suited for those with marketing skills and a desire to help businesses grow online.
Digital marketers can earn from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per month, depending on their expertise and the scope of services offered.
How to Get Started:
- Gain Skills and Certification: Consider obtaining a digital marketing certification to enhance credibility.
- Define Your Services: Decide on the specific services you will offer, such as SEO, PPC, or social media management.
- Find Clients: Use networking, online platforms, and cold outreach to acquire your first clients and build a portfolio.
Business
How to Save Money When Ordering Business Checks
Business checks are an essential tool for managing a company’s financial transactions, whether for paying vendors, employees, or utility bills. However, the cost of ordering business checks can quickly add up, especially for small businesses that operate on tight budgets. Fortunately, there are several strategies you can use to save money without sacrificing quality or professionalism.
In this article, we’ll explore various ways to reduce the cost of ordering business checks and help you make smart financial decisions for your company.
1. Order Checks in Bulk
One of the most effective ways to save money on business checks is to order in bulk. Like many other products, checks become cheaper when purchased in larger quantities. If your business issues checks frequently, ordering a larger batch will reduce the cost per check, saving you money in the long run.
Why Bulk Ordering Helps:
- Lower Cost per Check: When you order checks in bulk, many suppliers offer discounted rates, resulting in significant savings.
- Fewer Orders Over Time: By ordering a larger quantity upfront, you’ll reduce the frequency of reorders, which can lower shipping costs and prevent price increases from affecting your future purchases.
How to Implement:
- Estimate Usage: Calculate how many checks your business typically uses in a year and order accordingly. This ensures you don’t run out of checks while maximizing your bulk savings.
- Shop Around for Deals: Different suppliers offer various bulk discount packages, so compare pricing from multiple vendors to find the best deal.
Bulk ordering is ideal for businesses that consistently issue checks, as it allows you to stock up and reduce your overall spending.
2. Compare Prices from Different Suppliers
Business check suppliers vary widely in terms of pricing, quality, and services. Before making a purchase, it’s important to shop around and compare prices from multiple providers. Doing some research can help you find the best combination of affordability and quality.
Where to Compare:
- Online Suppliers: Many online retailers offer business checks at lower prices than traditional banks. Check websites like Checks Unlimited, Deluxe, and Costco for competitive pricing.
- Local Print Shops: Local printing businesses may offer personalized deals or discounts, especially if you’re a returning customer.
- Bank vs. Third-Party Suppliers: While ordering checks directly from your bank may seem convenient, third-party suppliers often provide more affordable options without compromising on security or customization.
When comparing suppliers, be sure to factor in shipping costs and any additional fees that could affect the total price.
3. Use Coupons and Promotions
Many check printing companies offer discounts, coupons, or promotional codes for new customers or bulk orders. Keep an eye out for these deals when ordering business checks to maximize your savings.
How to Find Discounts:
- Check Supplier Websites: Before placing an order, visit the supplier’s website to see if they offer discounts or promotions. Some suppliers offer seasonal sales, such as back-to-business deals or holiday discounts.
- Sign Up for Newsletters: Many check providers offer discounts for signing up for their newsletters or loyalty programs. These newsletters often include exclusive promotions and discounts.
- Search for Coupon Codes: Websites like RetailMeNot or Honey can help you find valid coupon codes for check suppliers. Enter these codes at checkout to save a percentage off your total order.
Using coupons and promotions is a simple yet effective way to lower the cost of business checks.
4. Opt for Standard Check Designs
While it can be tempting to choose elaborate designs with custom features for your business checks, these enhancements can significantly increase the cost. To save money, consider sticking to a standard design that includes your logo and essential information but avoids expensive customizations.
Why Standard Designs Are More Affordable:
- Lower Printing Costs: Standard designs are easier and quicker to produce, which lowers the printing cost for the supplier.
- Avoid Unnecessary Add-Ons: Features like premium paper, additional security layers, or intricate color schemes can increase the overall price of the checks. Opting for a basic design will keep costs down.
You can still maintain a professional image with standard designs while saving on printing costs.
5. Reuse Check Templates
If you’ve previously ordered custom checks with your company’s branding, consider reusing the same template for future orders. Customizing a new design each time you place an order can incur additional setup fees. By reordering from the same supplier with an existing design, you can avoid these extra costs.
Benefits of Reusing Templates:
- No Setup Fees: Many suppliers charge a design or setup fee when creating a new check template. By reusing your old template, you can avoid these fees.
- Consistency: Using the same design ensures brand consistency across all financial documents, helping to maintain a professional image.
Reordering from a pre-existing template is a simple way to save money while ensuring brand continuity.
6. Consider Using Digital Payments for Smaller Transactions
While business checks are necessary for certain payments, you might find that some smaller transactions can be handled more efficiently through digital payment methods. By reducing the number of checks you issue, you can lower the frequency of orders, saving money in the long term.
Alternatives to Checks:
- ACH Transfers: Automated Clearing House (ACH) transfers are a cost-effective and secure way to transfer funds electronically. Many banks offer low or no fees for ACH payments, making them a great alternative to checks.
- Online Payment Platforms: Services like PayPal, Venmo, or Zelle are suitable for small transactions and offer lower fees than the cost of printing and mailing checks.
By using electronic payment methods for smaller transactions, you’ll reduce the need for checks and cut down on ordering costs.
7. Negotiate with Suppliers for Better Rates
If your business regularly orders checks in large quantities, you may be able to negotiate better rates with suppliers. Building a long-term relationship with your check provider could lead to discounts or special pricing.
Tips for Negotiation:
- Ask for Volume Discounts: If you’re placing a large order, ask your supplier if they offer bulk pricing or discounts for repeat customers.
- Establish a Long-Term Partnership: By committing to a long-term partnership with a supplier, you may be able to secure lower prices over time.
Negotiating with your supplier can help you get the best possible price, especially if you’re a loyal customer.
8. Choose Generic Security Features
Security features are important when ordering business checks, as they help prevent fraud and unauthorized transactions. However, some high-end security options can be costly. To save money, opt for standard security features that still protect your checks but come at a lower price point.
Common Security Features:
- Watermarks: A basic but effective security measure that deters counterfeiters without adding significant cost.
- Microprinting: Tiny printed text that is hard to replicate and helps prevent fraud.
- Heat-Sensitive Ink: An affordable option that reveals tampering attempts but doesn’t drastically increase the check cost.
Stick with these basic security features to keep your business checks secure while avoiding high-end, unnecessary extras.
Conclusion
Ordering business checks doesn’t have to be an expensive endeavor. By ordering in bulk, comparing suppliers, using coupons, and opting for standard designs, you can significantly reduce costs while still maintaining professionalism. Additionally, leveraging digital payment alternatives for small transactions and reusing existing templates can further streamline expenses. With a bit of research and planning, you can save money on business checks and allocate those savings toward other critical areas of your business.
Business
How to Create an Eco-Friendly Bathroom with Simple Swaps for Big Impact
Creating an eco-friendly bathroom is a small but impactful way to reduce your household’s environmental footprint. While bathrooms are essential to daily routines they can also be a major source of waste and resource consumption. From water use to single-use plastic packaging many conventional products contribute to environmental harm.
With a few thoughtful changes you can turn your bathroom into a more sustainable space. Adopting sustainable household products and reducing single-use items makes it easier to live an eco-friendly lifestyle.
Swap 1: Choose Plastic-Free Toilet Paper
Traditional toilet paper often comes wrapped in plastic which adds to the problem of plastic waste. Switching to plastic-free toilet paper offers a simple way to cut down on household plastic usage. Many eco-friendly brands use paper or compostable packaging to eliminate unnecessary plastic.
In addition to reducing packaging waste the plastic-free toilet paper is usually made from renewable materials such as bamboo. Bamboo toilet paper is not only biodegradable but also manufactured without harsh chemicals like chlorine making it safer for the environment and your skin.
By choosing plastic-free alternatives you are not just reducing waste in your home but also supporting brands committed to sustainability.
Swap 2: Replace Disposable Products with Reusable Alternatives
Disposable bathroom items such as cotton pads and razors and plastic toothbrushes generate significant waste. Making the switch to reusable options can dramatically reduce your environmental impact. Consider these swaps
Reusable Cotton Rounds: Washable cotton pads can replace single-use cotton rounds and last for years with proper care
Safety Razors: A stainless steel safety razor is a durable alternative to disposable plastic razors and offers a cleaner shave
Bamboo Toothbrushes: Swap your plastic toothbrush for one made of bamboo which is biodegradable and works as effectively as traditional options
These changes help keep your bathroom clutter-free while reducing waste.
Swap 3: Switch to Sustainable Personal Care Products
Personal care items such as shampoos, conditioners and soaps often come in plastic packaging and contain harmful ingredients. Look for eco-friendly alternatives that minimize both waste and toxic chemicals.
Bar Soaps and Shampoos: Solid soaps and shampoo bars eliminate the need for plastic bottles and last longer than liquid products
Refillable Products: Many companies offer refillable products such as body wash or lotion in eco-friendly packaging
Natural Ingredients: Choose products made from organic ingredients to avoid contributing to water pollution from synthetic chemicals
Using sustainable household products ensures that your personal care aligns with environmental values.
Swap 4: Conserve Water with Simple Adjustments
Water conservation is an essential aspect of creating an eco-friendly bathroom. Simple actions can significantly reduce your household’s water consumption without sacrificing comfort.
- Install Low-Flow Fixtures: Low-flow showerheads and faucets reduce water usage without compromising pressure.
- Use Water-Efficient Toilets: Dual-flush toilets give you control over the amount of water used with each flush.
- Turn Off Taps: Make it a habit to turn off the tap while brushing your teeth or shaving to avoid wasting water.
These small adjustments can save thousands of liters of water each year and lower your environmental impact and utility bills.
Swap 5: Embrace Zero-Waste Cleaning Products
Many traditional cleaning products are packaged in plastic and contain harmful chemicals that pollute waterways. Switching to zero-waste cleaning products ensures that your bathroom stays clean while also supporting eco-friendly practices.
- Vinegar and Baking Soda: These simple household ingredients make effective and non-toxic cleaners for bathroom surfaces.
- Reusable Cleaning Cloths: Replace disposable wipes with washable microfiber cloths to reduce waste.
- Eco-Friendly Brands: Look for bathroom cleaners from brands that offer plastic-free packaging and biodegradable formulas.
These sustainable swaps demonstrate that a clean bathroom doesn’t have to come at the expense of the environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How can I find eco-friendly bathroom products?
Look for products labeled as biodegradable and plastic-free or made from sustainable materials. Certifications like FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) can also indicate sustainable sourcing. - Is plastic-free toilet paper as effective as regular toilet paper?
Yes, plastic-free toilet paper performs just as well as conventional options. It’s often softer and biodegradable and also better for the environment. - Do bamboo toothbrushes work as well as plastic ones?
Absolutely. Bamboo toothbrushes offer the same level of effectiveness while being more environmentally friendly due to their biodegradable materials. - Can eco-friendly bathroom products help me save money?
Yes! Products like safety razors or reusable cotton rounds and low-flow fixtures reduce waste and last longer also offering long-term savings. - How does using sustainable household products benefit the planet?
Using sustainable products minimizes waste and reduces resource consumption and supports environmentally conscious brands that contribute to a healthier planet.
Conclusion:
Creating an eco-friendly bathroom is easier than it seems. By adopting sustainable household products and replacing single-use items with reusable alternatives, you can make a positive impact on the environment without sacrificing comfort or convenience. Switching to plastic-free toilet paper is one of the simplest steps you can take but it’s just the beginning.
These small changes add up reducing waste and conserving resources and supporting sustainable practices. Every eco-friendly swap is a step toward a cleaner and greener future which proves that even the smallest adjustments in your bathroom routine can lead to meaningful change.
Business
5 Easy Steps to Remove Scratches From Bamboo Flooring
There may be more intense frustrations in the world, like waiting in a long line at the bank. However, when deep scratches appear on your newly installed bamboo flooring, that moment of frustration is incredibly real.
But there’s no need to panic because there is a solution. Think about the scratches on your car and how those who worked miracles made it look new. Now, let’s get into some clever tips and tricks for removing scratches from bamboo flooring. However, before delving into these tips and miracle-working parts, let’s first understand the properties of bamboo flooring (an herb):
Unlike other types of flooring, bamboo flooring is strong, durable and easy to care for. While you may occasionally see scratches, don’t worry, bamboo flooring and scratch removal experts say your bamboo floor can be repaired even without professional help.
Tips for removing scratches from bamboo flooring:
Before you begin, you’ll need to have the following items on hand:
Wet paper towels
Polyurethane
Fine sandpaper
Foam brush
Masking tape
Wood putty
Putty knife
Step 1: Treat Surface Scratches
Clean the scratched areas with a cleaner designed for bamboo flooring surfaces. Dry the floor with a clean paper towel. Then gently sand the scratched areas with fine sandpaper. Next, use a foam brush to apply paint the same color as the bamboo planks to the scratches. Wipe away any excess debris. Finally, apply a coat of polyurethane to the bamboo flooring area.
Step 2: Prepare the Floor
Select a wood filler that is as close as possible to the natural surface color of the bamboo flooring. Thoroughly clean the scratches with a damp paper towel and bamboo floor cleaner. Finally, dry the area with a dry paper towel.
Step 3: Sanding Time
Use fine sandpaper to sand the edges of the scratches. Be careful to try not to sand around the edges of the boards so that you don’t damage the rest of the floor in the process. You can’t afford to have any accidents when repairing scratches in your bamboo flooring.
Step 4: Fill the Scratches
Using wood filler, fill the scratches with a putty knife, making sure to fill the deepest scratches with wood filler first. Then, smooth out the scratch with a clean putty knife. Scrape off any debris and even buff it to make sure it’s completely smooth.
Step 5: Sealing
Once the wood filler is completely dry, coat the bamboo flooring area with a polyurethane sealer. Polyurethane sealer is powerful and scratch-resistant, helping to prevent future scratches in the area. Apply a thin coat of polyurethane using a foam brush. Allow it to dry and sit overnight before applying a second coat.
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