Shop the Dollar Tree to Save MoneyI am an avid shopper and I research a lot. Do something for yourself and you will see what I mean. Go to Dollar tree and then search anything you like. The lotions and body washes are just as good as the national brands.
Review Your Subscription Services
Many of us have cancelled cable but quickly found we're spending the same money on streaming services. Even worse, it's sometimes hard to remember what streaming services we're actually paying for. With subscriptions not just for TV but also music, ebooks, newspapers, video games, and fitness it can be hard to keep track.
In-Store Return Policy Extended During COVID-19Do you need to make an in-store return for an item you don't need, no longer need it, bought extra of or are unsatisfied with? I'm here to share with you with my in-store return and experience at Lowes.
Shop Semi-Annual SalesLadies, we all love smelling good and treating ourselves, but why break the bank in the process? Back in January, I went to Bath and Body Works semi- annual sale where they basically have all their fall and winter scents on major clearance while gearing up for spring.
Always Tip Your Servers/DriversUsually I would say this to people when dining in a restaurant. But because of the current situation the whole world is facing, delivery or curbside pick up is the IN thing at the moment, right? So, my tip is: Always tip your server or driver because they're so worth it! (Especially NOW)'
Shopping Rewards for Healthy ChoicesMany companies today will reward you with cash prizes to use in-store for making healthy life decisions. One of my favourite ones is called Balance Rewards for Healthy Choices by Walgreens. You can sync your smartphone with their app and allow it to track how much you walk around.
Misleading PackagingDon't be fooled by packaging. I ran out of Eucalyptus Essential Oil, so when I went to Walgreens, I did not see the brand I previous purchased. Instead, I noticed this new brand called Guru Nanda. It was the same price and from what I recalled, a much larger bottle. Wow, I thought, what a deal, but come to find out, it was just the packaging!
Take Advantage of Store Rain ChecksFinding big sale items in weekly store ads is great, until you get to the store and notice they've ran out of stock. It can be frustrating, especially because you've made an effort to make it out to the store only to find there was nothing there for you.
Buying in Bulk SmartlyI don't like buying household items in grocery stores. The prices are outrageous! I'm sure most will agree! I am a household of just one, but strongly believe in saving as much money as I can. I have priced products online and in club stores and have found a great online company that beats all prices!
E-Receipts instead of PaperIf you don't want to bring home additional trash (receipts) that will eventually get tossed out or misplaced having the e-receipt option sent to your e-mail is extremely useful. E-receipt is better than not getting a receipt because you can still review your purchase immediately and have your receipt saved encase you need to make a future exchange or return!
Shop After Easter ClearanceIf you're in need of home decor, shop after holiday clearance sales and be open minded. You will save a ton of money! These pillows retail for $19.99 each at Target. I paid only $1.99 each.
Shopping Tips for In-Store Pick UpBuying online and picking up in-store is a free and convenient method of shopping. However, I would highly recommend inspecting the items before allowing the cashier to finalize the purchase.
Take Screenshots of Purchase ConfirmationsWhen you order things online, always take screenshots of the order summary and guaranteed delivery date immediately after purchase. Whether the purchase information is on the retailer's website on in your email, they can suddenly delay your delivery date and not inform you. The information for shipping can be altered, even in your original email.
Jot Down Expected DeliveriesI recently experienced a couple of lost deliveries which was extremely disappointing and frustrating not to mention lots of time wasted! I had to be on the phone with the company I purchased from, delivery service as well as my credit card company. All together I spent over 5 hours of my time being placed on hold, switched to different departments and finally was able to dispute the charges. Not only did it take a big chunk of my time, but over a weeks course to resolve everything!
Rewards for Playing GamesGood day Thrifty Fun, I am here in hopes to share a few things. Let's begin. I play a game called Very Dice. I will say this if you have children you don't want to be without this on each phone. They will be able to roll and have so much fun.
Improved Totes WarrantyI like buying products with lifetime warranties, such as Totes umbrellas. The last time I had to use the warranty, I had to mail back the entire umbrella, plus a $5 check to cover postage for the return umbrella. They have changed their policy for the better.
Provide Feedback About Online PurchasesIf you are a frequent online shopper like myself, there are some times where you may not be happy with the item quality, or damages upon arrival. For example, I ordered a couple of new books online. The books were not packaged with care and just tossed in an oversized box. All the books suffered dented spines and that just breaks my heart to see!
Money Back for Grocery ShoppingAre there items you wish you could afford but they just don't fit your budget? Items you would like to try but unsure how they'd taste and don't want to consider it a waste of money. Or, did you know items you already shop and buy can qualify toward cash back?!
Label Purchase Dates on Personal/Beauty Care ItemsIn my free time, I enjoy to coupon or find deals for items that my family and I use, or items that I could gift. My little stockpile is building up so now, I label each item with the date I purchased so I know which one to grab first (the older date).
Free Fruit for KidsIf you're going shopping with your young ones, several grocery stores have free treats or fruit for your kids.
WalMart Deal Alert: Scissor and Basting BrushWalMart now has its annual display of grilling items. Grills galore and more. They also have some great deals on accessory items. You'll find a pretty large selection of items for 88 cents. Grill brushes, tongs, wiener molds, skewers, etc. The tongs were good size and quite hefty for that price.
Use Your Own Mind When Making PurchasesWhat is a 'benhad'? It's not the lowest soldier rank in Xerxes Persian army, nor is it the latest hair style craze by Lauri Pedaja. A benhad is simply a person who has been had by the system.
Shop After Christmas for DiscountsAfter Christmas, that's when the sales start from 70-90%. I was incredibly shocked with the amount of selection at my local Target. I was able to stop by on January 1st and stock up on Christmas items, all for 90% off. Items that I would normally not splurge on but have always wanted:
Get a Raincheck for Out of Stock ItemsIf an item is out of stock, don't forget to get a raincheck. I went to CVS today and as you can see the entire sale items are wiped out. The deal is if you purchase a select Conair Hair Styling Product for $15, you get $10 Extra Bucks (essentially a coupon to shop back at CVS).
Living With Hype ~ Then And NowWe live in the age of 'Hype'. And we have for so long, the plain unadulterated truth would probably sound strange to us. Even the adjectives we use cannot be taken literally. Have you noticed things that have no weight now come in tons? 'I spent the weekend at the beach and had tons of fun'.
Prioritize Grocery Shopping TripsIn our household, we usually plan our cooking based on what we have leftover at home, cravings/meal requests and the circular weekly ads. There are a couple of stores where you can "double dip" circular weekly ad sales.
Always Price CheckOne of my biggest shopping tips is to always price check items. You might be surprised at the price difference at times.
Buying the Most Economical ApplianceDecide what features are must-haves. The dryer pictured was only $299. I gave up the bell that rang when the clothes were dry, because the cheapest model with that feature was $200 more.
Bring Your Own Shopping BagsTarget will give you 5 cents off for every bag they don't have to give you. Be prepared by storing some in the trunk of your car, saving money and the planet.
Use Browser Extensions to Save Money OnlineI have been using free extensions on my Chrome web browser when I shop online to save HUGE bucks. You simply add them to your Chrome browser then browse your favourite online shops. It will automatically try coupon codes for you, shows you price history and price drops, and tells if you if it's the best buy.
Carefully Inspect New AppliancesI recommend to carefully inspect your new appliances upon delivery with the delivery person. Make any notations with the delivery person and have it noted on your documents prior to signing the form. Purchasing a new appliance is very expensive and we would not want to receive a damaged, scratched, or dented appliance.
Shopping Clearance SectionsA thrifty way to shop is to check out the clearance and final sale section. Some items are still in decent shape with minor flaws that could easily be fixed with a simple DIY.
Don't Get Scammed with Buying Amusement TicketsAmusement park tickets are always increasing. If we could save any money, we would love to right? But please be careful. Many tickets that sound too good to be true can be fishy or even fake. Do not fall for the scam.
Score Deals at Store ClosingIt's sad to see so many big stores closing. I don't often visit store closings because I always thought the prices are expensive, but actually the prices are reasonable and they will only get cheaper toward the end of the closing date.
Get a Receipt when ShoppingSome stores I go to ask if I want a receipt - the environmentally friendly method would be to say "no", however the thrifty part of me says "yes". I always get a receipt.
Understand Price Adjustment PoliciesI recommend anyone who shops in-store or online to read through the stores' policies, especially focusing on price adjustments. By knowing my store's price adjustment policy and following my mattress purchase, I was able to receive a price adjustment refund of $131.76!
Shop after Seasonal Holidays for Big SavingsIf you shop after Seasonal Holidays like Valentine's Day, Mother's Day, Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, etc. you can save at least 50-75%, if you are lucky some stores even offer up to 90% off.
Save Time and Money with a Shopping ListWhen I write a shopping list, I know exactly what I need to purchase and get out of the store so I will not overspend or purchase unnecessary splurge items. I will also save time by having a list in-front of me when I shop.
Return Items with Tampered SealsI made a mistake of not throughly checking the boxes of tea I purchased today. It looks like someone has tampered with the seals of the boxes and maybe peeked inside? I am sure the tea is still fine, but I do not want to take the risks. I will exchange them for new ones.
Compliment Companies to Receive Coupons and PerksI saw this tip on a thrifty-type reality show. The woman said "if you write to companies of food that you habitually shop with just to compliment them on their product, they will send coupons."
Keep Product Box and Receipt In Case of ReturnA nifty way to never lose your receipt for a product you purchased is to enclose the receipt in a small envelope taped to the inside of the box. That way, if the product you purchased does not work as planned and want to make a return, you will know where the receipt is without having to dig around and waste time.
Tempered Glass Screen Protector for SmartphoneA tempered glass screen protector will be your best friend to help prevent your smartphone from breaking, shattering and scratches! For less than $10 bucks, you could easily install the thin screen protector yourself. The kit comes with everything you need.
Download Store Apps for DiscountsDo you have a smartphone? If you do, you could actually be saving some money! Check your local stores you shop at and see if they have an app. Chances are if they do, there is usually an incentive like clipping mobile coupons, clipping manufacturing coupons, mobile rewards or some sort of perks/deals!
Join Restaurant Loyalty Reward ProgramsIf you enjoy dining out, I would recommend joining for the restaurant's loyalty reward program, or email subscriptions if they have any! The reason being? You can earn awesome perks, discounts, promotional offers, be alert for new items, and so forth!
Double Check Restaurant ReceiptsDouble check all your receipts when you eat out. First check them to make sure they are correct. Second, check them for coupons and surveys and internet addresses to sign up for more coupons. In the past 2 months, I have had part of my meal free because of checking my receipts.
Get Incredible After Christmas Sales NowI just bought this gourmet coffee for 30 cents! The original price was $3.99. That's a 92% savings. There is plenty of winter weather left to enjoy it. The Christmas package is the only reason it is so inexpensive.
Do the Math Beyond the Purchase PriceBefore you purchase an item, do your research. Check the consumer ratings, price compare from store to store, and take into consideration what it will cost you over time to use that item. Several times I have paid more upfront for an appliance as it will save me money over time compared to a less expensive version.
Buy Products With FreebiesChristmas is coming and supermarkets are now open with cheaper items and more freebies. Some brands would drop down their prices and sometimes items would come out with bags, mugs or anything for free.
Check Craigslist for AppliancesThis weekend, my old dryer stopped working. After checking prices at the big box stores, my husband went onto Craigslist to see if there was anything available. He found some great deals and we got a replacement dryer from someone in our neighborhood for $25!
Find the Biggest Savings on AmazonWhen you're doing some online shopping on Amazon, this tip can help you find the biggest savings on whatever you're searching for. In this example, I'm looking for paint brushes. When the search results come up, go to the url and add the argument "&pct-off=90-99" (without the quotes) to the end and hit enter. This will bring up the most discounted items in your search. (I marked the url change and discount shown in red.) If you change the argument at the end of the url to "&pct-off=50-99" it will find you items discounted from 50 to 99 percent. Adjust accordingly. :)
Check Your Receipt for Incorrect PricesI just found out that my supermarket has a policy that will give an incorrectly scanned item to you for free. The store will give you a $10 discount on items that are more than $10. Because of this knowledge, I got a $7.99 package of burgers for free.
Insurance Tip for Better CoverageWe recently changed health/vision/dental insurance companies. Our new insurance carrier denied several vision and dental claims that according to their handbook should be covered. I called to ask them why. They told me that they did not pay on those particular services until after we had coverage for 12 months. Further explanation brought forth the fact that if I could prove we had prior coverage and that our old insurance company covered those services, then they could waive the 12 month rule. This is to prevent people from changing insurance companies just to get things covered.
Carefully Read Food Ingredient LabelsI've always read food labels. While I had no problems eating anything, I did tend to shy away from foods with a high salt content. Something else I looked for, particularly in meat products, was 'by products'. I avoided them entirely.
Grocery Store StrategiesI live by three different grocery stores so I check the front and back of each flyer every week. That is where they list their hook sales, sometimes incredibly good deals to attract you in to their store. I make a list of the three stores and their best deals for items I would be interested in.
Tips For Weekly Grocery ShoppingI make several lists long before my actual food shopping week. First, what items I can get at the dollar store? I am always amazed at how many name brand foods are sold at the Dollar store.
Wait to Buy OnlineWhen you buy online, leave the item in your cart for a few days without actually buying it. Many times, the company will email you with a discount to entice you to purchase the product they think you forgot about.
Check Delivery Options for Alaska or HawaiiABC and LTD don't deliver to Hawaii or Alaska. I learned that when I moved there after placing several orders to them when I lived in Florida, then moved to Alaska.
Repair Appliances Instead of UpgradingUpgrading seems to be the latest catchword when replacing appliances. Do so with caution as all the major appliances are coming out of China. They are not of the quality as when US made. My appliance repairman will vouch for that as he's busier than ever now.
"Sock It To Me" Cell Phone CaseI have a small cell phone. It's not a smart one, but it's fine for what I need it for. My husband had purchased me a nice $15 case for it. Then I lost it and I would not spend another $15 to get a replacement case. Instead, I bought a pair of toddler socks.
Do Not Trust Online Inventory DatabasesMy advice is not to trust the online store inventory databases. Go to the store and see for yourself.
Check Prices Online Before Buying AmazonDo you shop online using Amazon? To make money off of their customers, they sell items they have in stock 'for less' than retail value, with the promise of free shipping if you purchase an Amazon Prime membership.
Dollar Store for Cheap UmbrellasDollar General has them. That's where I go when I get caught in the rain
Pay a Little to Save a LotI have several things that I paid a little more for, but have saved me a lot.
For example, I went on eBay and bought a washable, reusable filter for my Dyson vacuum cleaner for $21.
Shop a Day Later Each WeekIf you are paid weekly, shop every 8 days instead of every 7. Every seventh week, you will have twice as much available to spend.
Stock Up on Filters When You Buy a VacuumWhen you buy an appliance or make a purchase where parts maybe needed later, buy extra parts with the purchase or as soon as possible.
Check Fred Meyer for Discounted ShoesMy son is very hard on his shoes and we have had to replace them already. I was able to get a very nice pair of Nike Zoom at Fred Meyer for 40% off the lowest clearance price, or about $40.
Should You Join a Rewards Program?Many companies are now collecting reward points on their websites. You many have wondered if it's worth the time and effort to join these programs.
Know Your Store's Policy on MistakesFirst check your store's policy, some stores like Pick & Save give you double your money back. They might ask you if you left the store, so walk out the door and come back in.
Contact Manufacturer For Lost Appliance ManualsI have been seeing a lot of questions about replacing lost manuals. The easiest way is to try a search for the manufacturer's website. Some times they will charge for a replacement. Sometimes they will send you one for free.
Check Balance Before Throwing Away Gift CardsRecently while cleaning out some old files, I found a misplaced gift card that had an expiration date of 2009 - four years ago! Reading the small print, I discovered a number to call to find out the balance on expired cards.
Whiten your Shoelaces with PaintMy white shoelaces were dirty but not worn out yet. I hand washed them with soap and water and then painted them with white acrylic paint. When they dried, I had new laces.
New Data Plans When Upgrading PhonesI recently noticed an ad for a free Verizon smart phone and was about to upgrade two of my family's older technology smart phones when my son pointed out to me that in doing so, I was giving up my unlimited data plan.
Water Down Many ProductsI have been poor so many times and it's taught me how to spend less on more and to use every last bit of everything. When I have used "all" of the shampoo, conditioner, bodywash, even dish soap, I put water in the bottle and shake it up and finish it that way.
New Product Through Dollar TreeI found this and other sizes, colors and shapes at my local Dollar Tree in Salem, OR.
Call for Discounts on TV or InternetWhen you contract is up with DirectTV, even if you don't plan on switching providers, give them a call and see if they have any opportunities to lower your bill.
Can Opener For Plastic PackagingRun a can opener along the edges of the plastic package to open the clam shell or blister packaging easily.
Garage Sales and Thrift StoresKeep you eye open at garage sales for HDMI cables or any other cables you are looking for. You can find cables that cost $10 for next to nothing. Newer cables, like HDMI, are also showing up at thrifty stores, so that's a good place to check.
Avoiding Impulse ShoppingWhen visiting a mall, there is one thing that makes me want to spend, spend, spend! That is the sight of another shopper with lots of lovely designer store bags in her arms.
Finding Free FurnitureWhen I need something I ask my friends to "ask around" for me. Most of the time someone has the item and they simply want to get it "out of the way".
Ask Companies To Honor Competitor's Free ShippingI got online today and through much searching for an hour or so found what I wanted. Store XYZ offered it at $50 with free shipping. Store ZBA offered it for $45 with 8.91 shipping.
Using Paypal for Non eBay PurchasesI use PayPal whenever possible and for good reason. Just recently, I had questions on treating a sick furbaby. I had gone to a website where you deposit $9 in their paypal account and would get an answer to your question by a qualified person in that topic.
Keep Receipts on FileI keep receipts in a file according to purchase. I can easily find the right receipt if I need to make a return or ask for a price adjustment. I recently got a $38 refund on a baby swing two months after purchase when it went on sale.
Use AAA Membership For DiscountsObviously, going to a matinee will save money, but those rarely work with our schedule. We happen to have an AAA membership. They sell discount movie tickets for nearly every theater in our area.
Swap BooksMy solution to buying or selling books is to swap your books for another book, CD or DVD. This helps to lessen the carbon footprint, and you get an item that you want! There are a few swap sites that you should check into, such as swap.com
Read Labels and Avoid Marketing SchemesI, like so many other woman, will try almost anything. Then I noticed companies are betting on just that! Shaving cream for one example: it softens, has aloe or tons of other promises. Maybe they do, but is it worth the extra money you pay for it?
Save Money On Amazon PurchasesTo save money on Amazon.com. Be sure to check out Amazon's warehouse, warehousedeals.com. It is full of refurbished and open-box items featured at lower prices. All Warehouse purchases are covered by Amazon's standard 30-day return policy.
"Shop" In Catalogs First, Then Visit Thrift StoresWe go through catalogs, ad flyers, and find the latest "styles". Then with favorite colors and sizes written down, we go to our local thrift store or goodwill. My kids love doing this, knowing they are helping mom save money, and it's fun!
Share Purchases At Warehouse ClubsBy joining with other family members and friends we can pool our like needs and share. I do not have the space to store a case of tp or paper towels, but I buy and share the cost per case with others in my group that need this item.
Value from Alternate Classic BrandsJust picked up some little spray bottles of the classic French scent Intimate - from the 99 Cent Store! I looked it up, and it is a brand from a 50's French designer. the price at which I got it was 1/2 off even the net's discount price.
Watch Out For Scam Auction SitesThis is a warning to all. EBay is a reputable auction site, and that's a good thing. However, many other "scam" auction sites have recently come into play. They sound too good to be true, and they are. Please beware!
Before You Commit on eBayBe sure to check the person's rating. EBay gets feedback from their buyers on each vendor and it goes to a percentage. Vendors can be barred by having a low percentage of happy customers.
Link: 2011 Consumer Action HandbookThe new and updated 2011 Consumer Action Handbook is ready to be ordered. I orderd several of these and gave them out to family and friends.
Storing Batteries in the RefrigeratorJust yesterday as I was going to the nearest office to get some soda, I notice they had batteries in the refrigerator. I ask, "Why are there batteries in the refrigerator?"
Saving Money on Hand SoapHere is how I save money on soap. I do not have a brand loyalty, so when I see soap at rummage sales and garage sales, I buy it, often at 10-25 cents a bar. Often it is something fancy from a gift set. I have not paid full price for years.
Dealing with Unwanted MailIf you are like 98% of all Americans, you get mail you would rather not receive (and I'm not talking about bills - who wants those). Here are a couple suggestions of things to use that unwanted mail for.
Shop During Dinner HoursShop stores during the dinner hours, 5 PM to 7 PM. The stores are less crowded then.
Check Online Reviews Before BuyingSometimes you see wonderful new gadgets advertised on TV. Try going to Amazon.com or Ebay.com to see how customers rated these gadgets before you buy them.
Link: Free 2010 Consumer Action HandbookFREE 2010 Consumer Action Handbook. I have mine, and it is great and I am sure it will be used frequently. It covers lots of things from checking up on doctors qualifications to the National Do Not Call Registry. It is beautiful to look at too and leaf through.
Telling Good Books From BadI am a librarian, so I know about many sources for books. It is always best to see the books before you purchase them, but that isn't always possible. I have found that amazon.com is the best review source.
Book Discount at TargetI have found that Target carries many new books at a considerable savings. If you have a store card, Target will begin giving 5% off in September to all card members. This is a good source for a book that is not yet at the library.
Link: Product Safety WebsiteThis would be a great source of info to have on hand, especially for families with small children. It is is a database that is very thorough about household products; their safety and how to properly use them.
Take Cell Phone Photo Of Sale SignsWhen checking out at Kohl's, my granddaughter realized we had been overcharged. There was a large sign stating that the jewelry was 50% off. She took a cell phone picture of the sign. We went to Customer Service, she showed them the picture and we got the correct price.
Check Measurements Against Sizes Before Ordering ClothesBefore you decide to purchase clothing from a television shopping channel or a mail order catalog, measure yourself! Some designers use different measurements for different sizes. A size 2 for one designer, might be a size 4 for another.
Saving Money on Prescription GlassesWhen it's almost time to change my prescription eyeglasses, I start looking for specials so I can save money. Last time I got glasses, the special was 2 pair for $99.00 If the prescription changes slightly, just have the old pair turned into sunglasses.
Share Your Customer Service ExperiencesShare your business experiences, regardless of if they were good or bad, with the manager or website of the company. Often times you will get a coupon and a really good service person may get a reward at work as well.
Watch Fine Print on WarrantiesI like to save money by buying stuff on sale. I usually buy presents for my family, in advance when I find them not when I need them. But as I found out recently, means that the warranties may have expired.
Free Boxes For USPS Priority ShippingBoxes are available at the United States Post Office website free for Priority Shipping.
Look Online for Discounts And ReviewsGo online to websites when going to purchase a new product you have never bought before. A lot of times you find discount coupons because they are wanting you to try something new. All you have to do is print it out.
Bed, Bath and Beyond Honors Expired Coupons and Competitor's PricingMost Bed, Bath and Beyond stores will accept expired Bed, Bath and Beyond coupons. Some will also accept up to five coupons per purchase. They will also match other stores' prices.
Dial 99 During Recorded Telemarketing CallDo you still get calls from telemarketers even though you're on the Do Not Call List? If you get a call from a recording, dial 99 while the recording is playing and then hang up.
Buy Second Hand AppliancesWe sold our 3 bedroom home and moved into what is known as a 2 bedroom apartment home. We sold all our appliances with the house because we just didn't want to move them.
Buy Frugal Toilet Paper at a Restaurant Supply StoresBuy your toilet paper in bulk from online restaurant overstock suppliers. You can get 96 rolls of toilet paper for .67 a roll. Most are double ply, so if you turn one roll into two rolls, you can get 192 rolls of toilet paper for under $65!
Make a Habit of Returning CartI really don't think this is a tip. It's more of a suggestion for all of us to help where we can. I was at Walmart yesterday. I've made it a habit to pick up a shopping cart that's wandering around, and loose in the park lot, to use in the store.
Tell Retailers You Saw It Cheaper to Get a DiscountI was reading an article about the retail business I thought I could pass around. If you are in the market for some of the "big ticket stuff", try this when you go shopping. I read where these businesses are so hard up for a sale, you can get at least 10% off a purchase.
Tell Businesses of Your InterestIf there are hardly any businesses of your preference in your town or area, write to the companies that you like. Tell them what properties in your town would be a good location for one of their restaurants, etc.
Resolving a Consumer ComplaintWhen trying to resolve an issue, always ask for the name of the person you are talking to in trying to resolve your issue; if not satisfied do this:
Use Gift Cards for Online ShoppingWith all the talk about identity theft, I have found one way to shop online and not have to worry about having my credit card number stolen.
Buy Versatile FurnitureWhen you buy your furniture, try to buy items that can be used in several rooms. Certain tables, chairs, lamps, etc. will never be wasted if you can move them around.
Keeping Track Of Mail-In RefundsHere's a good way to keep track of mail-in refunds. Keep a notebook with a list of all your refunds. Use a simple column system with the following headings: Name, Refund Address and Phone Number, Date Submitted, Refund Offer, and Date Received.
Collecting and Using Product SamplesI'm addicted to free samples! The first time I ever received a free product sample in the mail I almost threw it away with the thought that I would never use it. Luckily, I did use it and I liked it so much that I went to the store to purchase the product in its full size.
Make Sure Toiletries Are Not Close to ExpiringWhile shopping, most of us know to check for the expiration dates on food items. Did you know there are expiration dates on over the counter medications, on toothpastes, and other items, as well?
Watch Amazon Warranty InformationI was reading a product review on Amazon.com and the person said that the warranty for an item was 3 years, but upon receiving the electric pan, the warranty mentioned only 3 months.
How Long Will Your Appliance Last?This was in the Dallas Morning News. The idea being that if your appliance is older than the age posted, start saving up for a new one or expecting breakdowns. A friend quoted to me something about "if an appliance repair is over $150, buy another one".
Buying HeadphonesThe most important thing to consider when buying headphones isn't how they sound, but how they feel in your ears. If they aren't comfortable, you won't want to use them in the first place.
Google Products Before You BuyBefore you buy a product, go to your favorite search engine and type the product, model and "reviews" into the search engine to see what others thought of the products.
Local Technical SchoolsRemember to look into your local Technical High School. Ours has a bakery, open to the public once a week with inexpensive and delicious baked goods. You can even order birthday cakes from there...
