I thought washing my jean jacket would be a quick win. It smelled like last week’s takeout and I couldn’t ignore the ketchup stain anymore. I googled every trick—cold water, vinegar spray, even the freezer myth. I tried to spot clean, but the color bled and the stain spread. Finally, I caved and put it in the wash, delicate cycle, color-safe detergent, all the precautions. It came out faded in weird places, stiff as cardboard, and somehow still smelled off. Now it hangs in my closet, a reminder that sometimes saving money just means losing something you liked. Next time, I’ll live with the stain. #DIYDisaster #HomeBudgetFail #BrokeButCreative #Home