Coupons for Moms: Buying in Bulk & Saving
Does it make sense to use coupons to buy a bunch of the same item, even if I don't need it all right away?
Yes, the strategy you're describing is what's known in frugal communities known as stockpiling. Here are some tips to make stockpiling work for you:
In general, non-perishables work best for stockpiling: canned goods, toiletries, and dry goods such as pasta and rice. Keep like items grouped together: soups in one area, veggies in another, pastas in another and so on. Think of your stockpile as a miniature supermarket. If you have a freezer, you can also include things like meat, vegetables and certain fruits.
If you don't have a large pantry, you'll need to find space for your stockpile. Shelves in a basement work well. You may also want to consider moving some things out of your kitchen cupboards such as appliances and cookware you don't use very often to make room for your stockpile.
A general rule of thumb is to buy what your family uses in 12 to 15 weeks. Most times you'll see grocery prices drop again within that 12-15-week time frame, so you'll be able to replenish your supply when you start to run low.
An effective stockpile needs regular check-ups. Maintain a regular inventory checklist of what's on hand so that won't forget to use up the items you have. If there are certain things that have been sitting on your shelves and simply aren't getting eaten, donate them to a food shelf.
Get more expert advice for tough economic times.
Want more financial help? Try our Recession Buster Boot Camp!
In general, non-perishables work best for stockpiling: canned goods, toiletries, and dry goods such as pasta and rice. Keep like items grouped together: soups in one area, veggies in another, pastas in another and so on. Think of your stockpile as a miniature supermarket. If you have a freezer, you can also include things like meat, vegetables and certain fruits.
If you don't have a large pantry, you'll need to find space for your stockpile. Shelves in a basement work well. You may also want to consider moving some things out of your kitchen cupboards such as appliances and cookware you don't use very often to make room for your stockpile.
A general rule of thumb is to buy what your family uses in 12 to 15 weeks. Most times you'll see grocery prices drop again within that 12-15-week time frame, so you'll be able to replenish your supply when you start to run low.
An effective stockpile needs regular check-ups. Maintain a regular inventory checklist of what's on hand so that won't forget to use up the items you have. If there are certain things that have been sitting on your shelves and simply aren't getting eaten, donate them to a food shelf.
Get more expert advice for tough economic times.
Want more financial help? Try our Recession Buster Boot Camp!
Answered by
Kimberly Danger, MommySaver
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