Keeping your home stocked can sometimes feel like a full-time job—just when you think you’re fully stocked, something new runs out. Especially the products you need in the bathroom and kitchen, like soaps and paper products. As creatures of habit, we go to the same store, buy the same brand, and spend the same amount of money every time.
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But, what if I told you, you don’t have to spend that much?
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While it might be convenient to grab these items while you’re making your weekly grocery run, you could save a lot of money by deviating from the norm. Use these tips to keep more of your hard-earned money where it belongs: your wallet.
Coupon stacking
I recently learned that many retailers and supermarkets allow for coupon stacking. The idea is simple: If you have multiple coupons for a retailer, either online or in-store, these stores allow you to use more than one at a time, significantly increasing your savings.
Some of the largest nationwide retailers, drug stores, and supermarkets accept this money-saving method, even online—which was never allowed before. Keep your coupons and discount codes close by so you can save next time you need to stock up on your regular purchases.
Be aware of the ‘pink tax’ and ‘blue tax’
Did you know that you could be paying more for items that are specifically marketed to either men or women? A 2016 analysis found that the pink tax is a premium that women pay for certain products including moisturizer, vitamins, and razors, and that men pay it as well, but for other things. On average, men pay more for deodorant, hair regrowth treatment, and sports apparel, also known as the blue tax.
Recognizing which products you’re paying a premium for because of your gender can help you make smarter decisions when shopping. For example, you don’t need to pay $3 more for a pink razor if the blue razor is otherwise identical.
Stock up at large retailers when possible
Surprisingly, you may be paying more for your basic necessities like deodorant, medicines, and supplements if you always head to your local drugstore.
Shopping at larger stores discount stores such as Walmart and Canadian Tire that sell a variety of products will sell these products for less. Most of us shop at drugstores because they’re convenient and quick to get in and out of, but you should avoid them if you truly want to get the most bang for your buck.
D-I-Y what you can
A significant number of household necessities can be made in your kitchen to save mucho cash. Besides being cheaper, DIY cleaning products are often free of toxic chemicals and much safer for your family and work just as well, if not better.
I recently used vinegar and water as a window cleaner and was shocked to see that they looked nicer than when I use regular products—and I felt better knowing I wasn’t breathing in harsh toxins while doing it.
Use a deal-finding shopping app
Most apps we use on a daily basis were created to improve our lives. Many grocery stores and retail chains have adapted to the digital demand and created apps of their own where you can find coupons and deals of the day; some even allow you to compare pricing for certain products.
Saving money on every day products is surprisingly easy and will save you more than you might think. Consider how you can change your usual shopping habits to keep more cash where it belongs: your bank account.