One of the tools that I use to save money on groceries and household goods is to create a stockpile. Basically, I purchase non-perishable items when they are at rock bottom prices even if I don't necessarily need them at that very moment and store them in my "pantry". Then, when I am making my menu plan and grocery list I can "shop" myself first.
How do I do this?
The key is to match store sales with my coupons. I actually have several tools that I use to achieve this:
- I check out the CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid deals on "Cents"able Momma to get the best prices on household items like toothpaste, deodorant, razors, etc. Many times, I can get these items for free or almost free.
- Plus, you can check out the Walmart, Target, Kroger, and Meijer deals for the best grocery deals matched up with coupons.
- Use your price book to make sure that the item is at (or close to) the rock-bottom price for your area.
- You can get multiple copies of your paper to have more coupons to match, but I usually just make do with my one paper each week with printable coupons to supplement. You can find any available coupons in the coupon database.
Some Stockpile Tips:
- Make sure your "pantry" is organized so you can see what items you are currently well stocked in. I am currently way overstocked in feminine products, just because they got hidden.
- You'll want to organize a system of first in, first out so that you are using the oldest items first so nothing expires. It's not saving money if you have to throw it away.
- You don't need to create a stockpile all at once and ruin your budget. Work within your current grocery budget to add a few items at a time to your stockpile.
- You don't need to have a pantry in your kitchen to store your items. Use whatever works for you. I use shelves down in the basement. Of course, you need to pay attention to the storage conditions for your items (like a garage in FL in the summer might not be the best idea).
- Don't let your stockpile get out of control (I know...mine almost is). If you have extra items that you purchased because they were free or almost free, you can donate them to charity.
Jami
Now that I am learning to coupon stack, I am starting to stockpile, too. My mom did this when we were kids, and I always teased her about being a pack rat and never being able to pass up a sale...lol. Why is it that as we get older we realize how wise our parents really were? ;P
Erika
Great tips! I have to do it little differently since I don't have all the neat stores. But still great tips.
Erika @ Pioneer Homemaker
April
my basement is better stocked than some of my local stores...I love shopping from the comfort of my home and not having to make a last minute run for something
Mom2fur
I did a post recently on re-stocking my pantry, which is starting to get a little barren. I'm watching for sales on various items to build my stock up again! I made myself an index card of needed items to keep in my wallet, so I can watch for those sales in the various stores where I shop.
I also do Grocery Game (for about 3 years now) and love it.
There are few things in life more comforting than a well-stocked pantry!
Tara
I have been trying to stock pile myself.. this year. Hmm that sounded weird.. not trying to stock pile ME I meant food lol I have heard about the grocery game.. it sounds like it is worth it.. if you are able to save so much. Thanks for the post.
Lisa
Your pictures are inspiring. Thanks for sharing them. I'm just starting to stockpile...looks like I have a ways to go 🙂
Patricia
Thanks for sharing your stockpile photo, Corrie! That is very impressive too. Well done.
I should make 2009 a Stockpiling Year.
Patricia @ From Wags to Riches
Bonnie Vega
I am new and would like any info you can give me.
Corrie @ "Cents"able Momma
Thanks for asking, but I would prefer if you don't copy my entire post. It's bad to have duplicate content for SEO, and my post and images are copyrighted material. Thanks!
christy
I am interested in couponing but I just dont where to start.....any hints or suggestions?