We’re living in an era where every dollar counts. Groceries are expensive, rent keeps climbing, and most people are just trying to stretch their income far enough to survive. Being careful with money is understandable.
Necessary, even. But some people take frugality far beyond common sense—crossing the line from financially smart into emotionally and morally exhausting. And more often than not, it’s their children who end up paying the real price.
Here are some of the most disturbing—and unbelievable—stories shared by children of extremely cheap parents. Story 1: The Free Soap Scam
When my dad moved into his new place, he scheduled a free demonstration for an under-sink water filtration system. The salesman used a bar of soap during the presentation and left it behind when he left.
That should’ve been the end of it. Instead, my dad scheduled four more demonstrations with different companies—just to collect more free soap bars. He never had even the smallest intention of buying a filter.
He does things like this constantly. As he’s gotten older, the behavior has only escalated. At some point, I stopped arguing and just accepted that this is who he is.
Story 2: Paper Towels Are a Luxury Item
My dad treats paper towels like they’re made of pure gold. Even now—at 21 years old—I’m expected to ask permission before using one because he considers paper towels “wasteful.” When I was younger, I genuinely believed a roll cost close to $100 based on how seriously he guarded them. Ironically, his cheapness costs more in the long run.
He always buys the lowest-quality items, which break constantly and need replacing. One day, my girlfriend and I were at his house when I accidentally spilled an entire gallon of milk. She grabbed a roll of paper towels and—rightfully—used the whole thing to clean it up.
The story doesn’t end here — it continues on the next page.
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