qotd: penny pinching

What are some ways you save money? 
Submitted by Pixiemom.  

I think one of the best ways to save money is to learn how much things cost. It sounds pretty basic, but for things you use all the time, taking advantage of sale prices can add up.

For example, I am pretty loyal to the brands of laundry detergent and toilet paper that I use. When these things are on sale, they can be up to 35% off. I see no reason to buy the same product at a higher price. So when it is on sale, I stock up.

The one thing you need to be aware of is that marketers are tricky people. Just try and figure out the best deal in the paper towel aisle, and you will understand what I mean. You can't just say this roll of paper towels is $1.00 and this roll is $1.25, so the one for $1.00 is the best deal. Not necessarily true.

Take a closer look at the package, and you will notice that one roll may have more sheets than the other. But even that isn't enough. You have to look at the size of the sheets, and get out your calculator. It is enough to drive anyone crazy. Thankfully I don't use a lot of paper towels.

In the grocery store, I try to buy things that are in season, and I always check out the weekly flier to see what's on sale. Again, it pays to know how much things usually cost so you can determine if something is a good deal. Just because something is on sale, doesn't mean it is the best price. The best example of this is when retailers offer by one get one (you know, BOGO). Typically when they do this, the item is the full price. So if you don't buy two, you are really losing out. But oftentimes you aren't getting the item at half off, as the price listed for one is more than usual.

The real goal though is to try and buy so that I don't waste. This is very difficult sometimes. But truly there is nothing worse than throwing out food. It is literally like throwing good money in the garbage. This is why making a weekly menu (including meals when you may not be at home) and making a grocery list are key to saving money.

Another thing we do, that is truly of the penny pinching nature, is to recycle our bottles and cans. Really we are just getting back the CRV (California Redemption Value), but it adds up. They have unfortunately made it a bit more difficult as you can now only go during business hours (before they let you use the automated machines even if the attendant wasn't around), but it adds up.

Finally, if you shop online, you really should join eBates. I have been a member since the early days and have earned back over $500. Most stores give back only 2 or 3 percent, but that adds up. And you only need to earn $5 to have a check sent to you. If you are going to buy it anyway, why not save? Plus it is always fun to get a check in the mail. The stores (and discounts) change, but here are a few that I have earned money back from: Nordstrom, Smith & Hawken, Lands End, Apple, Cooking.com, The Gap, Eddie Bauer, Maryland Square, Kiehls, Dean & Deluca, Expedia, Uncommon Goods, Martha Stewart Flowers, and more. To sign up and get $10 (after your first purchase), use this link^*.

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^*I will also get a bonus if you do. But once you sign up, you can tell your friends and get them to join so you can make money. To be fair though, most of that $500 came from shopping, not referral bonuses.