The Original Free Grocery Tips Site - GrocerySavingTips.com

Learn How to Cut Your Grocery Bill in Half, With or Without Coupons

2013-07-28T19:11:00.001-04:00

Here are just a few of our favorite grocery saving tips to get your started:

Golden GrocerySavingTips Rule: "If it's not on sale, it doesn't go in the cart!"

Save Money on Frozen Foods

Frozen pie crusts are a great convenience, but you'll save quite a bit by making your own at home. And they'll taste better too! Visit our baked goods section for our favorite pie crust recipe. - Read more frozen food saving tips...

Save Money on Juices

Water down your children's juice cups with 1/3 - 1/2 water. Not only does this save money, but it also saves the amount of grams of sugar going into our children, and on their teeth! (By the way - juice can ruin a baby's teeth so don't let them go to bed with a bottle of juice, day or night!) - Read more juice saving tips...

Save Money on Pet Supplies

I buy large cans of dog food which I halve for 2 feedings. Kroger also sells 12 cans for around $7 which is better than paying $1 a can. We buy 1 pack every 2 weeks. Bulk I find is better for us and helps us save money. - Read more pet saving tips...

Save Money on Canned Foods

Buy FRESH grocery items instead of canned, when in season! - Read more canned food saving tips...

Save Money on Produce

If you buy a large bag of produce (instead of individual produce items), and the bag contains one or more bruised or spoiled items, remove the damaged produce as soon as you get home. One spoiled item can affect the rest of the bag if it's not removed soon. - Read more produce saving tips...

Save Money on Meats

The very best time to buy ham is before or after the holidays, they are always on sale! After preparing a large ham for one meal, simply divide the leftovers into family size portions and freeze. - Read more meat and seafood saving tips...

Save Money on Sodas

Of course the best way to save money on sodas is to start drinking water instead, it's also much healthier. If you can't cut the soda habit completely, try just cutting your family's consumption in half. That will help. Sales for these products vary from week to week, but I have noticed when Coke products are on sale Pepsi products are not, and vice versa. So, either stock up when your brand of choice is on sale or switch back and forth depending on the sale. At our local stores, a 2-liter name brand soda on sale may cost about .99 cents, while a 2-liter not on sale may cost up to $1.79. In other words... No sale, No buy! - Read more soda saving tips...

Copyright 2003-2016 by Michelle Jones. All rights reserved.

General Grocery Saving Tips

2013-07-27T22:30:00.000-04:00

Save Money on Groceries: General Grocery Shopping Tips
by Michelle Jones, GrocerySavingTips.com

Learn how to save more money on groceries, with or without coupons!

Kids can be so funny. One day I came home with a load of groceries from the store and looking at the bags one of our children said to their siblings, "Look, mom bought everything that was on sale!" Oh my! Well, as I explained to them (trying to contain my laughter), "No, I didn't buy everything that was on sale, I just bought SOME of the things that were on sale; just the things that we needed." I was tickled though; my children do know me well. ;o)

Here's some of my general tips for saving money at the grocery store, I hope they will help you Save, Save, Save!

Tip # 1 - Do not, I repeat, DO NOT shop without a list for exactly what you need! Then do your best to stick to it and get out as quickly as you can!

Tip # 2 - As you go through the store pay attention to the helpful aisle banners above each row... avoid any row that doesn't have something on your list!

Tip # 3 - This should really be RULE #1, do not shop while you're hungry! As a busy mother of 4, I often make this mistake - and I know better! It's just not good for the waist line (because you'll buy foods you shouldn't!), or the family budget. So don't do it!

Tip # 4 - Avoid last minute impulse purchases at the checkout for things like magazines and candy bars, and whatever else they're trying to sell you... including nail clippers, camera film and batteries. Unless they're on sale, you'll always do better at the discount stores for those items!

Tip # 5 - And if you have a magazine you tend to keep picking up each month (while you're at the GROCERY story), just subscribe to the darn thing and save yourself $20! (Try to limit yourself to just one or two subscriptions per year.)

Tip # 6 - Do NOT be brand loyal, and try to buy only what's on sale. Sometimes a name brand can even be on sale for the same price as the store brand, or less... so read those price labels!

Tip # 7 - Bigger does not always equal better! Be careful of big "value size" packages. Maybe it's because of sale items, but I often find that a smaller size product can be more cost effective than the larger size of the same product. Sometimes they are packaged for price value, but often they are simply packaged only for convenience. The store manufacturers must be thinking we'd rather save a trip to the store than save money... WRONG!!

Tip # 8 - There is no need to make a special trip (especially with gas prices being so high), but as you're shopping around town pay attention to the prices of items you buy on a regular basis. I do this everywhere I go! (And have been doing it for 20 years!!!)

Tip # 9 - Make a note! As a busy working mom of 4, I don't have time to keep a price log but I make a mental note of items that are much cheaper at particular stores. It's become such a habit that when we run out of something I know exactly which store I need to purchase it at for the best price. That is of course, if it's not on sale somewhere else!

Tip # 10 - Grocery stores are becoming harder and harder to get out of quickly. With the addition of greeting cards, books, hardware, pet supplies and even fancy gifts to purchase! This tip goes along with my Tip #1 - shopping with a list and getting out quickly. If you KNOW before you even get there, that every non-food item the grocery store has can be purchased much cheaper elsewhere, then don't even look at those items! Just shop for the foods that are on your list and then get out!!! (Of course stopping at the checkout to pay for your groceries first! ;-)

Tip # 11 - Here's a great idea from one of our featured "Tip of the Month" winners (subscribers to our free newsletter win cash and free grocery coupons for submitting the best money-saving tip of the month!) ... "While many people have their lists planned down to the ounce, often I find myself putting little extras in the cart as I shop. To avoid buying things that are not necessities, I always stop and survey my cart before I proceed to the check out. Does my family really need chips and pretzels this week? Three types of candy? I try to allow a treat or two every time I go to the grocery, but sometimes I get carried away if things are on sale. By reviewing what is in my cart before I get to the check out, I can eliminate items that are 'wants' rather than 'needs.' (Returning items to their proper place in the store.) This tip would probably help beginners rather than the experienced grocery budgeter, but it has saved me a lot!" - submitted by Katie

Tip # 12 - Be careful when shopping at grocery stores that require a membership card to get items for their special 'SALE' price, which is just about most of them these days. I've never had a problem before now but twice in the last 6 weeks I've had to ask the cashier to refigure my bill because the card didn't go through and they charged me full price for everything! (This was especially bad since 75% or more of everything in my cart is usually on sale, not just one or two items.) And yes, it is inconvenient to ask for the refunds and wait for the total to be figured, but both trips resulted in a membership card credit of about $17.00 each! On the second trip, I had even asked the clerk to check the receipt because I saw an item wring up at full price, she checked it and said, "yes it's there." But when I got home (always check your receipt before leaving the store, which I usually do!), I put the groceries away and was looking at the receipt and saw I had been charged full price for everything. Back to the store I went, I tried to be really nice and so did the store manager but I could tell she was not thrilled at having to refigure the bill and give me a credit. I'll do whatever I can to make sure this doesn't happen again, and will never leave this particular grocery store without checking my receipt first, but good grief! Super Wal-mart is looking better and better to me all the time, and they take coupons too!!!

Tip # 13 - Many people do not realize this (and the stores probably don't want everyone to know) but when a product is on sale, let's say for example "buy 4 for $10.00," you can almost always purchase just one of the items for the sale price (which in this case would be $2.50). In other words, you do NOT have to purchase 4 items to get the sale price! (However, if it's an item you use regularly it's a good idea to go ahead and purchase more than one, as long as you have the money to spare AND the room to store the extra items.)

Tip # 14 - This may be a surprise to you (it certainly was to me), but grocery clerks do not always know their own store's coupon guidelines! Recently, I had some special store coupons I wanted to use with matching manufacturer's coupons. Since I am fairly new to this store I stopped by the customer service desk first to make sure it was okay to do this. With no employees attending the desk, a cashier happened to be walking by and asked if I needed assistance. I asked her about the coupons and she said "No, you can only use one coupon per item!" Later, as another cashier was ringing up my groceries I mentioned it to her and told her I thought it was okay to use a store coupon with a manufacturer's coupon, and she said "Yes, it is!" And I would say in MOST cases it's going to be okay... a store coupon is not the same as a manufacturer's coupon, it's really just their own sale price! However, if you want to make sure your store will honor both coupons at the same time before you try it, just be sure you speak directly to the manager!

Tip # 15 - Grocery stores must be REALLY working hard to compete with the discount store prices, or vice versa, and I'm impressed. They've fooled me a few times with this smart marketing tactic but I've decided to consider it a learning experience so there's no hard feelings, at least on my end. ;-) So anyhow, here's the scoop... let's say a certain product at the discount store costs $3.97. You know the price well because after all, you're a bargain shopper! But when you happen to be at another store (which shall remain nameless) and you see the same product (with the same brand name, same color, same approximate size, same flavor, scent, or whatever!) and the SAME PRICE, you go ahead and purchase such product because after all, they are the same! However, upon returning home and placing the new product beside the old product (which is waiting to be recycled) you discover that it was all a hoax! As it turns out, everything about the product is indeed the same, except the size and weight! They just made it appear to be the same product by pricing it exactly the same as the larger size that is available at the discount store!

Tip # 16 - If you have time (or even if you don't) you can also create a price log in a small notebook to record the best price of your favorite products at each store, that way you'll always know if you're getting the same size or not! Here's our FREE Printable Price Log to help you get started!

Tip # 17 - We often receive letters reminding us that stores like Wal-mart (since I evidently talk about them all the time, sorry, but I've been shopping at Wal-mart for over 20 years and I still love them!) not only do they take coupons but they also offer price matching as well. So, I finally decided it was time to make a note of it on the site! :o) And in fact, some of our readers even make a habit each week of taking all their sale flyers to a particular store and asking for the price matches (you guys rock!), but with the full load of groceries we buy for a family of 6 I think the cashiers would faint if I handed them a stack of store ads to match up! ;o) However, although I do not do this each week, I have price matched and it really does work. It's also a fantastic service to loyal customers that all stores should offer and can be a real gas saver too, especially if all of the stores are not close to your home.

Tip # 18 - Our local grocery stores annually run a food drive for our community food bank, it's a great opportunity to help those who are really in need. Just with a few extra dollars each week (if you can afford it) you can provide several days worth of meals for a family who might otherwise do without. If your grocery store doesn't run food drives you can simply buy a few non-perishable items (canned meat--like tuna or chicken when it's on sale, beans, rice, pasta, and canned vegetables) and deliver them to your local food bank yourself. Being the savvy grocery shoppers that we are... when we find a really great deal we could probably stock them up!

Tip # 19 - One of the best ways to save money on groceries is to keep wasted food to a minimum. Use up leftovers quickly (keep a list on the fridge if necessary so you remember what’s inside) or freeze them for later use. If you’re cooking for just one or two, freeze leftovers in single-size portions, they’ll make quick and easy dinners on nights when you’re too busy or too tired to cook. Over the years, I’ve learned that using clear see-through storage containers for leftovers and keeping them on a special self in the fridge works best for our family. You can also keep items that the children might like (especially healthy after-school snacks like fruit, yogurt and cheese), on a lower shelf so they can reach them easily.

Tip # 20 - When items are on a buy-2 for one-price sale, such as 2 boxes of cereal for $4.00, it is usually not necessary to buy two to get the sale price. If you use the item regularly and will need to buy more before they go on sale again (possibly in just a few weeks) go ahead and buy as many as you need. But if you only need one, then just buy one. The money you save by not purchasing that second item (just because it’s on sale) may be needed for something else that you might need more, such as milk, bread, produce, chicken, fish or meat.

Tip # 21 - If you're able to use coupons the same rule applies; sometimes it’s better to just buy one sale item instead of the two or more the store is hoping you’ll pick up. And if you have two coupons it’s okay to use both on a buy-2 for one-price sale, because you are purchasing two items! It might even be worth purchasing an extra Sunday newspaper to get a duplicate set of coupons; if a certain week has a lot of great coupons for products that you use often!

Tip # 22 - And speaking of coupons, double coupon offers are great but in our local area we currently have only one store that offers double coupons--and only up to 65 cents--and, they are also one of the more expensive grocery stores. The double coupons are nice, but then when you buy grocery items that generally do not have coupons (such as milk, bread, meat, produce, etc...) you will more than pay for that double coupon savings. So, if your "double coupon" store is similar to ours (i.e. on the high-end) use the coupons on their sale items when you have time and purchase everything else at a lower priced store of your choice.

Tip # 23 - When grocery stores have a Grand Opening for a new location be sure to stop by and pick up their big sale items. They usually have some really LOW, LOW, prices during the first week, or even the first month. Also, register for prizes if they're being offered... I rarely ever win anything but I won $100 when my favorite store, Food Lion, opened up a new store! And with a family of 6 that was certainly a welcomed gift!!! :o)

Tip # 24 - If you need a quick dinner for your family try your local grocery store for some great food instead of going to a restaurant. You'll save a ton of money (especially if you have a large family like we do) and probably calories too! Some quick ideas we've come up with include homemade deli sandwiches, spaghetti or other quick pasta dishes with your favorite jar of sauce, premade hamburger patties, and even broiled fish. You can literally make a quick trip to the store, pick up these items and have them on the table in less time than it takes to drive to a restaurant, order your food, wait for the food, eat the food, and then pay for the food (saving time and money!)

Tip # 25 - When cooking a recipe that calls for expensive ingredients that you might need to buy at the store, switch things up and use what you already have on hand. Simple substitutions can often be made very easily; without hurting the taste, or your budget!

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Readers' Tips...

"Don't be afraid to ask for a rain check if the item you want is sold out!" - Teresa Wilson

"This is just an add on to tip #17 - price matching at Wal-Mart. I price match all the time and to keep it simpler for the cashier (and myself as I am unloading and loading groceries with three kids), I make a list of the items I am matching, the price and the store that advertised and hand it to the cashier at the checkout. This works well for me because I have my notebook with my list (the ad prices marked on my list so I don't have to carry all the ads with me) and I can just jot it down after I double check to see if store brands or the Wal-Mart price is not a better deal. If I am only matching a couple of things I just put a sticky note with the info right on the item." Brenda

"In response to the Wal-Mart matching store products, some stores may not ask. But in our stores in the Midwest, you need to show the competitor's ads when you shop to get price matching at Wal-Mart." - Rose H.

(Editor's Note: Many stores across the country, not just in the Midwest, will ask to actually see the ads, Rose. I believe Brenda is a very fortunate woman, too bad we can't all shop at her store! ;o)

"As soon as your children are old enough, buy them a calculator (discount stores have them for as low as a dollar for basic calculators). Have them help you figure how much an item costs per serving or ounce. Compare the prices together to find the best deal on several items. Not only does this teach them about bargain shopping, but they also get a good math review (I'm a teacher if you can't tell). Soon, they'll try to beat you on finding the best bargains!" - Angela R.

"After moving to a new suburb of Columbus, I was happy to find that I had several other choices in grocery stores near our new home. One grocery store that I frequent has a savings card program (but watch to make sure everything rings up at the "card" price) where you save $0.10 per gallon of gas at their gas station for every $50 you spend on groceries. They are also very competitive with a larger chain grocery store across the street, plus they have cheaper prescriptions on their antibiotics and cough/cold prescriptions. So at this one store I can get all the deals that the other store is getting, they double their coupons up to $0.99, I save on gas, and they price match! It truly helps to learn the differences and benefits that each store has to offer!" Jenny W.

"When preparing your shopping list for the week, list items in the same order as the stores aisle layout. (usually not a problem when using the same grocery store weekly). This will not only save you time but keep you from adding extra items to your cart you may accumulate going up and down every aisle." - Linda

"This may only be in Michigan, but we have the bounty hunter law which stipulates that if the item scans incorrectly, the consumer is entitled to receive both the difference between the scanned and advertised price plus a bounty of ten (10) times the difference up to $5.00 as a reward for catching the pricing error. You almost always have to ask for it, although some Wal-Mart employees have just gone ahead and given it to me. And since Wal-Mart regularly makes mistakes, it really saves you money on your grocery bill! Many times, they are paying you to take the items home! For about a month, they had a six-pack of a brand of ice tea that was normally $3.00, marked down to $2.00 on the shelf. It always rang up $3.00. I would tell them about the problem - they obviously knew it was a problem because they gave me the $1.00 + $5 bounty, but they never fixed the problem. For a month, I was eligible to get paid $4 to buy iced tea. I didn't ask for the bounty every time because my conscience bothered me, but I was eligible for it, and they should have fixed the error." - Lori

"Don't forget about 99 cent only stores and The dollar tree. You can get their weekly add in the mail by subscribing on the internet or just checking the net when you have time. Paying $0.99 for a jar of brand name pasta sauce is better than paying $2.98 at your local store. Last week I went to the 99 cent store and purchased 1 box of noodles, 2 cans of pasta sauce, mustard, mayo, cinnamon, 2 doz. large eggs, a bag of shredded cheese, tomatoes(4), 1 head of lettuce, bag of potatoes, bell peppers(4), 1 pkg. of lunch meat, loaves of bread(3), 1 gallon of milk, 1 pkg. of sliced cheese. I bought 2 lbs of ground turkey meat from my local store which was on sale for $3.00 and my grand total was $25 (this includes tax) I had Friday's dinner...Saturday's breakfast...Saturday's lunch and the leftovers from Friday for dinner...then Sunday's breakfast...now that's a steal! (I HAVE A FAMILY OF 4 and a daycare of 4 extra children ages 5-13) 8 people total. And if I still wanted to push it...I had enough cheese and bread (I already had butter) to make grill cheese for Sunday's lunch." - C. Herrera

"Use a SMALLER cart, or the little basket. The bigger space you have to fill, the more you will buy. It's in your mind, but I've noticed that when I use a smaller space to fill, I buy less." - Donna

Q: "I recall reading something in the past about how most chain grocery stores usually put items from at least two aisles per sales period and rotate them. The writers idea was that in a given six to eight week period, by stocking up during these times you would save in the long run on essential items. Do most chains have any logical sales patterns and do you believe this may save money?" - Russ ... A: "Thanks Russ, I love this question! Stores definitely rotate sales on a regular basis and this is why it's usually not necessary to buy more than what you need. By the time you run out of the product, it should be on sale again. If you find it is not, the next time it goes on sale, buy the amount you need to get through the non-sale time period--if it's within your budget and you can afford to buy extra." - Michelle

"I buy a Barnes and Noble discount card every year. It costs $25 a year. I purchase a number of books each year for use in my business and receive discounts up to 40%. But the best part is that I receive almost monthly a 15% discount coupon that is in addition to the 10% I receive with my card. With that coupon, I buy a pound of Starbuck's coffee. With both discounts I pay $8 for a pound. Walmart sells 12 ounces of the same coffee of $7.89 and my regular grocery store sells 12 ounces for almost $9. Over a year, I recapture my annual fee almost twice." - Gene of Ormond Beach, FL

"I find a lot of my friends don't know that the price per unit is displayed on the tag. So although the 25 ft. of foil is on sale the 75 ft. that isn't on sale is cheaper because the price per square foot is cheaper. It's important to check on items that you use a lot of, or won't spoil, some people see sale and get all warm and fuzzy before they realize its not really cheaper! Or a lot of times the brand name is cheaper on sale per unit even though the generic has a cheaper total price. I rarely compare the total price, I look at the price per unit." - Melissa

(Editor's Note: Absolutely, Melissa, this has always been a must for maximum grocery savings!)

"Bike to the grocery store. You are then limited to what you can carry or load on your bike. You also get exercise, save gas, and promote a healthy environment." - Erik Hopkins, FSU

"Every household has different grocery needs. I made a list of everything I buy regularly, from produce to pet products. I post the list on the fridge with an attached pencil. When I run out, I check that item. I always have a current 'needs' list to take to the store with me. When I come home, I staple my grocery receipt to the list and toss it in a file, then print and post a new list. Without further work I can go back and check prices, and track those 'impulse buys' that weren't on the list in the first place." - Syn Ferguson

A reader's opinion on Walmart (Part One)... "Beware of overspending in Walmart, buying items that you don't need. The whole atmosphere is set up to get you to purchase other things, as you have to walk by the make up aisle to get toothpaste or dog food, walk by the ladies clothing three times as you turn the down the grocery lanes, walk past the dvds and cds to get to the shampoo or whatever. So BE CAREFUL. Walmart is also not always the cheapest place to purchase food. You have to be very careful not to get caught up in the whole Walmart thing. Meat is expensive in Wal-mart, it is much cheaper to purchase meat at local grocery stores when it is on sale and stick in the freezer for later use. Most of our local grocery stores are cheaper than Walmart on meat anyway even without a sale and the quality is much better than Walmart offers. Walmarts 'fresh' meat actually comes in frozen to the store and so do many of the bakery items. It is not healthy to freeze food twice, so I prefer to buy mine elsewhere. And believe it or not cleaning supplies are much higher than the local discount stores. So beware, Walmart might offer some of your normal purchases much cheaper but don't buy it all there or you will have wasted your time and money." - J.B.

Cont. from last month... Part Two of J.B.s opinion on Walmart (see Feb. issue for Part One):

"And if you are a busy working Mom like me, I just don't like the hassle of Walmart. It is time consuming from parking to shopping to checking out. In the amount of time I can go to Walmart and get out of there, I can run in the local grocery store and pick up the sale items, then run to the discount store and pick up whatever else I need and still be finished much quicker. And it is easier to avoid purchasing needless items like many people end up doing. It always takes forever to fill prescriptions and the whole idea is to get you shopping in the store, same for having your car worked on. Some people think it takes a long time at Walmart because they are so busy, not true. They make plenty of money to have lots and lots of employees there to get you in and out. This is truly part of their marketing scheme, you can just google it and find out. The reason why everything takes so long at Walmart is so that YOU WILL SHOP in the store and spend more money. Just beware and make sure you are getting the best end of the deal and not falling for the marketing scheme. I just choose to never go to Walmart period and I still feed my family of 5 on about a hundred dollars a week including all health and household items. I spend about an hour shopping each week. I run in two or three stores and purchase the sale items and pick up a few other needed items each week. I usually just plan to go when I am driving by that store for another reason, so I rarely ever waste gas by making a special trip. Just my two cents." - J.B.

(Editor's Note: Thank you for sharing your opinion with us J.B., I understand what you are saying and your points certainly are valid. However, I still love Walmart. I've been shopping at WM for 25 years, in every different state we have lived in. When thinking about the future, I often wonder if Walmart will be the last surviving store on Earth, along with Taco Bell and AT&T. ;o)

"Getting tired of the same meals for dinner? How about organizing a dinner swap group with your church or a few families in your neighborhood. When you prepare a meal, make extra and freeze it and then swap it for a meal that a member of your group makes. Not only are you getting to try new meals but you are saving time in preparing meals that you can spend with your family and in some cases you are even saving money!" - Dani Miller

A huge thank you to Claire King, who suggested the following grocery tips. Some you may know already, some you may not! :o)

"Check the grocery special at your local chain pharmacy. I often find items such as cereal, Jello, nuts, coffee and crackers to be less expensive than the grocery chains. Look for markets whose in store deli sells 'ends' of cheese or luncheon meat. You can ask for specific cheese or meat and pay a reduced price for the unsliced ends. I use the meat in lunch salads, and the cheese is great for lasagna, quiche, eggplant parmesan, etc. Check the reduced fresh vegetables. There are often terrific values. Do some research on store brands. Often they are packaged for the store by a known popular company. I find it easier to keep track of the prices of 'sale' or coupon items by putting what I paid on the box and dating it. This gives me an idea of what I hope to match when I replace it." - Claire King

"Walmart’s 100 % Arabica bean coffee in the red package (at $2.30) is great. It tastes just like McDonald’s premium coffee. Try it." - Darrene Harrison

"Make sure your shopping list is thorough. I find that if I put, for instance, pretzels (or some sort of snack) I can save more money. I know that I need a pm snack for the kids, but don't want to spend a lot of money- so I just get whatever is on sale at the time. I am really good about only getting what we need. But I'm the worst at spending more because I didn't get enough the first time, so I go back to the store and end up getting MORE stuff than I actually need that time. The LEAST amount of trips to the store, the CHEAPER!" - Cassandra

"Here are some tips our family of five has learned over the years: It's a myth that eating healthy is more costly. When preparing our menu, I'll include 2 meals that are quick (microwaveable). The rest of the week however, are meals made from scratch. When shopping stay away from dinners in a box meals and processed foods. Our grocery bill was cut in 1/2 and the meals are tastier too! - My husband and I like to treat ourselves to a fancy dinner once in a while. Try ordering an exotic dish and then find the recipe online. Nine times out of ten, the recipes at famous restaurants are online. We host a lot of guests and many are surprised by our exotic offerings. Recently we took a trip to Washington DC and our meals came to $50/ plate. After replicating the recipe, I'm able to fix it for a mere $20 for our family of 5. Try to avoid taking your kids (and husband) grocery shopping. - Eliminate cokes and junk foods saves BIG! Learn to drink more water, ice tea and lemonade. - Reacquaint yourself with portion sizes. Most people eat WAY too much. A typical boneless, skinless chicken breast from Walmart is TWO servings! - Another tip, use smaller plates so your portions appear larger. Include 3 small snacks throughout the day and not only will you lose weight, but you'll cut your food budget too. (My son is a type 1 Diabetic, so we had to re-learn how to eat. Eating diabeticly friendly meals is actually cheaper.)" - J.O.

"Save those empty spice bottles and refill them with the loose bagged spices, so they will have an airtight container." - K. Henry

"When surveying your cart for 'extras' at the checkout, put a hand basket in your shopping cart when you start, then anything that is not on your list goes into the basket. This makes it easy to find the "extras" and evaluate the necessity of these items." - Sarah R.

"I do my monthly grocery shopping at the 99 Cent Only Store. I usually get 95% of my groceries there and 5% at Ralphs. If people would just give it a try and not be embarrassed, they will see there is almost everything you need on your shopping list there! My husband is sick and we are living on one income so this helps out tremendously!" - Jenny

"Aldi's can not be beat for some things. Their Costa Rican coffee beans are fantastic. Their instant coffee is cheap and just fine. Buy their iceberg lettuce, wash, slice into four pieces and pour their Tuscan blue cheese dressing on it and you have a salad to die for very fast, very cheap. Always buy their peppers, carrots, broccoli, celery and make regular “salad bar” trays in your refrigerator. Add a chopped banana to their fruit in a jar and you have an instant fruit salad. Grab a large vanilla yogurt and some nuts = four or more good servings. Grab a large cottage cheese and use it with drained canned peaches = four or more good servings. Get a big sour cream and make an “onion soup” dip for ruffled potato chips. Buy hummus and guacamole if you are having a party. Buy cold cuts and get the Italian bread and slice it to make deli sandwiches. Always keep a bag of onions on hand and some of the garlic in a jar." - Susan H.

"Love your website! Here's some ideas that my husband and I use: Buy good dish detergent like Dawn (econo size). When you get it home, pour 3/4 of it into another container and then add water back into the bottle to fill it up. You can make a bottle of good detergent last 3 times as long. You do need to buy the good stuff to begin with though. Recycle margarine containers into food storage containers. Recycle frozen pie pans and use to cook food in instead of foil. Works on the grill too. Wash your zip bags. Use really hot water and soap. Drain/Dry them over upside drinking glasses. Split a paper towel. If you hate paper towels as much as I do (I think they are wasteful!) - when you sit down to eat-tear one in half and share with whoever is sitting next to you. Buy the cheaper coffee that comes in the foil pouches. Keep it fresh by putting in a recycled plastic container of the more expensive brand you used to buy. Use cooking spray when making eggs in the morning. It's cheaper than margarine and butter: you use less per cooking session and it's cheaper to buy AND it's way better for you. If you smoke - roll your own cigarettes. A pack of name brands is up to $5. You'll smoke less and save money. (Or better yet, quit!) When you go out to eat - share a plate. Serving sizes are huge at restaurants - eat less, save money, feel better! Substitute Kool-Aid for sodas. Kool-Aid is 10 for $1." - Rachael King

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Copyright 2003-2013 © by Michelle Jones, Founder of GrocerySavingTips.com. All rights reserved.

Produce and Season Calendar

2013-07-27T22:00:00.000-04:00

Save Money on Groceries: Fruits and Vegetables
by Michelle Jones, GrocerySavingTips.com

Tip # 1 - Don't Pay for Water

When buying produce (by the pound), make sure it's dry. If it's just been sprayed with water it will weigh more and cost more!

Tip # 2 - Farmer's Markets

Produce is often cheaper (and fresher) at local vegetable stands or farmers markets, than the grocery stores. Except when they're in season and on sale. Check your store specials each week to make the best shopping choice.

Tip # 3 - When are Fruits and Vegetables in Season

Buy fruits and vegetables when in season, here's a helpful list for the Southern U.S. The list will vary depending on where you live.

Season Calendar

Copyright by Michelle Jones, Founder of GrocerySavingTips.com

March - Early June: Asparagus, Broccoli, Lettuce, Peas, Onions, Mushrooms, Strawberries

June: Apples, Broccoli, Cabbage, Peas, Peppers, Garlic, New Potatoes, Onions, Radishes, Raspberries, Strawberries, Tomatoes

July: Acorn Squash, Apples, Apricots, Beets, Black Eyed Peas, Blackberries, Blueberries, Cabbage, Cantaloupes, Carrots, Cherries, Corn, Cucumber, Eggplant, Garlic, Green Beans, Lima Beans, New Potatoes, Onions, Peaches, Peppers, Plums, Radishes, Summer Squash, Tomatoes, Watermelons

August: Acorn Squash, Apples, Apricots, Beets, Berries, Cantaloupes, Carrots, Cherries, Blackberries, Blueberries, Cabbage, Cucumber, Eggplant, Garlic, Green Beans, Lima Beans, New Potatoes, Okra, Onions, Parsnips, Peaches, Pears, Peppers, Plums, Potatoes, Radishes, Seeds and Nuts, Tomatoes, Watermelons, Yams

September: Apples, Blueberries, Brussels Sprouts, Broccoli, Cabbage, Cantaloupes, Carrots, Cauliflower, Collards, Green Beans, Kale, Mushrooms, Mustard Greens, Okra, Parsnips, Peaches, Peppers, Plums, Potatoes, Pumpkins, Raspberries, Seeds and Nuts, Summer Squash, Tomatoes, Turnips, Yams

October: Broccoli, Brussels Sprouts, Cabbage, Cauliflower, Collards, Kale, Mushrooms, Mustard Greens, Peas, Peppers, Potatoes, Pumpkins, Raspberries, Soybeans, Spinach, Tomatoes, Turnips

(If you would like to share our seasonal produce calendar, please provide a link to this page. Thank you!)

Tip # 4 - BOGO

"Buy 1/Get 1 Free" produce isn't always a great deal, be sure you can use that much or it will just spoil, essentially costing you more money. Or, consider sharing the free item with a neighbor!

Tip # 5 - In the Bag

Before buying large bags of apples, oranges, potatoes, onions or anything else, check the produce carefully to make sure they aren't bruised or spoiled.

Tip # 6 - One Bad Apple

If you buy a large bag of produce (instead of individual produce items), and the bag contains one or more bruised or spoiled items, remove the damaged produce as soon as you get home. One spoiled item can affect the rest of the bag if it's not removed soon.

Tip # 7 - Weight

Prepackaged produce is not always equal in weight, check the scales for the biggest packages.

Tip # 8 - Storage

To get the best value, store produce properly after your purchase. (Do not put tomatoes in the fridge!) If fruit is a little under-ripe, place in a paper bag for one or two days, it will ripen very quickly. If it's over-ripe, put it on the menu for today or tomorrow and either freeze any extra or share with the neighbors if you have more than your family can eat.

* * *

Readers' Tips...

"Growing our own garden in the summer is a huge savings for my family. You can freeze or can your veggies and fruits for all winter. Squash is wonderful, we grow a lot of them and the fully grown ones usually will store just fine in a cool place like the basement for the whole winter until next summer. Herbs can also be dried or frozen for the whole year." - Pashia

"I love your website; it has given me so many ideas on how to save on groceries (even if you're single, like I am). Something relatively new on the market is Debbie Meyers Green bags. I gave in and bought a box (on sale and with a coupon at Bed Bath and Beyond), and they are GREAT! It extended the life of ALL of my produce, which I find hard to use all at once. They're worth the money, and they WORK." - Lisa

"This may not be a new tip, but is one that has helped our family for years, and people that I tell about it always say, 'I never thought of doing that.' I keep a container in my refrigerator freezer (usually a one gallon ice cream bucket with lid) and after each meal, I will put my left over vegetables or meats in this bucket. Then when it is full (or whenever I want to use it), I will put it in a large pan with some canned tomatoes and either some cooked ground beef or turkey and make soup. This saves those last green beans, or whatever food, even if it is just a few spoonfuls, and contributes to another delicious cheap meal for the family. My kids will eat this even though they 'can't stand' the individual vegetables. LOL" - Judy

(Editor's note: Judy, I LOVE your grocery tip, it's a great money and food saver! Both my mother and mother-in-law did the same thing for many years when we were growing up. Reading your tip gave me a possible clue as to why hubby and I haven't continued the practice; we were tricked into eating all those miscellaneous veggies and meats when we were children! ;o)

"It might be a good idea to buy the veggies canned or fresh and stock up before the winter when prices raise. I noticed how high tomatoes get in the winter." - Lori Sawyer

"This year I have started buying potatoes in bulk. If you get them in 5 to 15-pound bags, they sell for around 10 to 30 cents a pound (here in the Seattle area), which is cheaper than any other produce I eat. (If you have a family that eats a lot of food, you should be able to get them in larger boxes.) I stick with the Red Potatoes and Yukon Gold, but their are others like Russet also. I cook them in the morning and eat them later in the day cold, which is the way that I like them." -Ron Koenig

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Copyright 2003-2013 © by Michelle Jones, Founder of GrocerySavingTips.com. All rights reserved.

Baby Food Aisle

2013-07-27T21:00:00.000-04:00

Save Money on Groceries: Baby Aisle
by Michelle Jones, GrocerySavingTips.com

Our family has been blessed with four children so as you can imagine, we've found many ways to save money on baby items over the years.

Here are some helpful ideas to help you save money on baby food, diapers, infant formula, and supplies:

Tip # 1 - Nursing vs. Formula

Nursing your baby (if you're able to), instead of using formula will help you save a fortune during the first year, not to mention the health benefits for you and the baby. It's also a wonderful bonding experience!

Tip # 2 - WIC Program

If you’re using formula and are living on a low income, we have a program here in the U.S. called WIC (Women Infants and Children) that’s available through the health department. Call your local office and set up an appointment to see if you qualify. It will be well worth the time and effort if you do!

Tip # 3 - Baby Bottles

If you're bottle feeding your baby there are expensive bottles and there are cheap bottles. When our babies reached the age of being able to drink juice (6 months) and regular milk (12 months), we always bought the cheaper bottles and they worked just fine. You can usually find them at the discount stores, for .50 cents each. That’s a lot better than paying over $2.00 for the fancier brands!

Tip # 4 - Coupons

If you don’t qualify for the WIC program, be sure to use coupons whenever you can. You can even contact the manufacturers directly by the 800 numbers listed on the package and ask them to mail you coupons if they're available.

Tip # 5 - Ready Made Formula

In general, ready made formulas are much more expensive than the powder mixes, unless they're on a really great sale. You can save money by stocking up on sale items, just be careful to note the expiration dates. Especially on formula!

Tip # 6 - Cloth Diapers and Homemade Baby Wipes

We used cloth diapers and homemade diaper wipes with our first child to save as much money as possible, they're not as difficult to use as you might think. Read my column, "Save a Bundle Using Cloth Diapers and Homemade Diaper Wipes".

Tip # 7 - Discount Store Medicines

When purchasing over the counter medicines for your baby you'll usually save a good bit by getting them at the discount stores. Grocery store prices on this aisle are usually pretty high.

Tip # 8 - Store Brand Medicine for Infants

Check with your doctor to see if store brand over the counter medicines are acceptable substitutes for your infant. This will also help you save a lot, especially over the next 18 years!

* * *

Readers' Tips...

"I have a 4 month old baby so we go through a lot of diapers and will continue to do so for quite a while. We received all the premium brand diapers as gifts but when those ran out I started shopping for cheaper brands. I've found that the store brand of our local discount chain store are actually better fitting diapers for my daughter than even the supreme version of the famous brands. Every babies tushie is different so you may have to do some shopping to find what works best for your baby, but I'm saving an average of $4 a package so it's definitely worth the effort!" - Jennifer M

"I used the store brand of baby formula that was comparable to Enfamil with my daughter. I compared the ingredients and nutrition and found there was no difference except in the price. I saved about $7 per can of powdered formula." - Tonya W.

Editor's Note: Thank you Jennifer and Tonya! Whenever we needed disposable diapers or formula for our babies we also used the store brands and found them to be very helpful. More people should give them a try!

"A great money-saving tip is to buy baby products from a grocery store that gives discounts for "points". At Kroger, I save $10 for every 200 points I accumulate. National brand items accumulate 1 point per dollar while Kroger and FMV brand items accumulate 2 points per dollar. I buy all my baby products at Kroger and my WIC there too (yes, that $100 worth of formula counts, too) I usually save about $10 every two months this way. Winn-Dixie also has a system like Kroger." - Alicia Hart of Georgia

"Ask your pediatrician if they have any formula samples, especially if your baby requires a special formula. Drug reps give them to them and many times they do not give them out. My pediatrician had a closet full, including a special formula that my cousin had to use for her baby. He gave me all of it! It never hurts to ask." Laura W.

"I have found that making my own baby food has been VERY economical for my husband and I. We bought an expensive name brand of baby food for a while, and we saved all of the little jars and plastic containers from the food, and we decided to make our own. Apples were super easy, a bag of apples you can find on sale for 2-4 dollars, and you just peel them, core them and cook them in a little water until tender, and puree them to desired consistency! Then put them into the little containers and put them in the freezer! My son loves carrots this way too. Just about any fruit or veggie can be done this way. :)" - D.T.

"Don't buy jars of baby food. Most of the foods you already eat can be pureed with a blender or food processor and frozen in ice cube trays or muffin tins and put into labeled plastic bags. Not only is it cheaper, but you control what goes into the food so you can make it more nutritious. Your baby also learns to eat the things your family is already eating, and gets a wider variety of foods that what's in the baby food isle. I often puree or chop leftovers and freeze them this way for when my son can't eat what I'm eating (like if I'm eating a raw salad etc.)" - Holly N.

"I am a nursing mom and our family uses WIC. They offer food for nursing mothers, plus baby cereal and baby food when your baby is 6 months old. They also offer meat to nursing infants after 6 months. Not only this, but after I signed up, a worker from their offices came out to my house and gave me all sorts of resources. It's really a great thing to participate in! Also, I found all sorts of coupon sites, like www.GrocerySavingTips.com, where I print off the ones I need-including many baby coupons. Then I watch the weekly ads and they often coincide. I saved over half (about 60%) on my grocery bill last week." - Heidi

"I make my own cloth diapers. I have found that you can use old receiving blankets for cloth inside and out. You can make the inside liners with old towels from your home or they sell them in bags at good will. I use nylon tent cloth from Walmart at a fraction of the price of pul cloth, for water proofing. They take about 2 to 3 hr to make start to finish and are about 2 dollars or less to make. I am proud not to be contributing more disposable diapers to our land fills." - Kristy

(Editor's Note: Good for you Kristy! We managed just fine with cloth diapers and homemade wipes for our first child. Everyone thought we were crazy, but boy did we save a bundle! ;o)

"A great money-saving tip is to buy baby products from a grocery store that gives discounts for points. At Kroger, I save $10 for every 200 points I accumulate. National brand items accumulate 1 point per dollar while Kroger and FMV brand items accumulate 2 points per dollar. I buy all my baby products at Kroger and my WIC there too (yes, that $100 worth of formula counts, too). I usually save about $10 every two months this way. Winn-Dixie also has a system like Kroger." - Alicia Hart of Georgia

"Ask your pediatrician if they have any formula samples, especially if your baby requires a special formula. Drug reps give them to them and many times they do not give them out. My pediatrician had a closet full, including a special formula that my cousin had to use for her baby. He gave me all of it! It never hurts to ask." Laura W.

"I have found that making my own baby food has been VERY economical for my husband and I. We bought an expensive name brand of baby food for a while, and we saved all of the little jars and plastic containers from the food, and we decided to make our own. Apples were super easy, a bag of apples you can find on sale for 2-4 dollars, and you just peel them, core them and cook them in a little water until tender, and puree them to desired consistency! Then put them into the little containers and put them in the freezer! My son loves carrots this way too. Just about any fruit or veggie can be done this way. :)" - D.T.

"Don't buy jars of baby food. Most of the foods you already eat can be pureed with a blender or food processor and frozen in ice cube trays or muffin tins and put into labeled plastic bags. Not only is it cheaper, but you control what goes into the food so you can make it more nutritious. Your baby also learns to eat the things your family is already eating, and gets a wider variety of foods that what's in the baby food isle. I often puree or chop leftovers and freeze them this way for when my son can't eat what I'm eating (like if I'm eating a raw salad etc.)" - Holly N.

"I am a nursing mom and our family uses WIC. They offer food for nursing mothers, plus baby cereal and baby food when your baby is 6 months old. They also offer meat to nursing infants after 6 months. Not only this, but after I signed up, a worker from their offices came out to my house and gave me all sorts of resources. It's really a great thing to participate in. Also, I found all sorts of coupon sites, like GrocerySavingTips.com, where I print off the ones I need-including many baby coupons. Then I watch the weekly ads and they often coincide. I saved over half (about 60%) on my grocery bill last week." - Heidi

"I make my own cloth diapers. I have found that you can use old receiving blankets for cloth inside and out. You can make the inside liners with old towels from your home or they sell them in bags at good will. I use nylon tent cloth from Walmart at a fraction of the price of pul cloth, for water proofing. They take about 2 to 3 hr to make start to finish and are about 2 dollars or less to make. I am proud not to be contributing more disposable diapers to our land fills." - Kristy

Editor's Note: Good for you Kristy! We managed just fine with cloth diapers and homemade wipes for our first child. Everyone thought we were crazy, but boy did we save a bundle! ;o)

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Pet Aisle

2013-07-27T20:00:00.000-04:00

Save Money on Groceries: Pet Supplies
by Michelle Jones, GrocerySavingTips.com

We have been blessed with many pets during our lifetime (dogs, cats, rabbits, hamsters, gerbils, fish, birds and even a guinea pig). We currently have a very sweet golden retriever that we adopted through a local rescue, a chocolate cocker spaniel that we have raised from a puppy, and a 100-lb white and brown spotted brittany spaniel that found his way into our home and our hearts. When you love animals you find a way to care for them, even on a budget.

* * * * Pet Laughs * * * *

"My dog is worried about the economy because Alpo is up to $3.00 a can. That's almost $21.00 in dog money!" - Joe Weinstein

"If you think dogs can't count, try putting three dog biscuits in your pocket and then giving Fido only two of them." - Phil Pastoret

"A very tired-looking dog wandered into my yard. I could tell from his collar and the fact that he was well-fed that he had a home and was well taken care of. He calmly came over to me, I gave him a few pats on his head; he then followed me into my house, slowly walked down the hall, curled up in the corner and fell asleep.

Courtesy of BetterBudgeting.com - Author Unknown

An hour later, he went to the door, and I let him out. The next day he was back, greeted me in my yard, walked inside and resumed his spot in the hall and again slept for about an hour. This continued off and on for several weeks. Curious I pinned a note to his collar: 'I would like to find out who the owner of this wonderful sweet dog is and ask if you are aware that almost every afternoon your dog comes to my house for a nap.' The next day he arrived for his nap, with a different note pinned to his collar: 'He lives in a home with 6 children, 2 under the age of 3 - he's trying to catch up on his sleep. Can I come with him tomorrow?" - C.S.

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Tip # 1 - Best Price

Wal-mart has great prices on pet food, though we have been able to buy the IAMS brand we prefer on occasion at the grocery store - when it was on sale. We've also discovered we can get IAMS dog food cheaper at Sams Club, but we have to buy a 44 pound bag instead of the 20lb bag that Wal-mart carries. We keep our dog food in a plastic pet food container to keep it fresh and the 20lb bag is perfect.

Please Note... We do not recommend feeding your pets cheap food that is not good for them; please look for high quality foods which will enhance your pet's life, but shop for the best price and use coupons whenever you can!

Tip # 2 - ID Tags

Did you know you can get an engraved ID tag made at the pet stores for under $10.00? They are so easy to make and just take a few minutes. Along with your pets name include your phone number on the tag so people can call you if your pet gets lost.

Tip # 3 - Vaccines

When it's time for your pet's annual vaccinations, check to see if your city has a local vaccination schedule if possible. You can save a bundle. Our area was sponsoring 5 separate day clinics during the summer for rabies vaccinations, but our pet wasn't due until late Fall so we had to pass on this money-saving opportunity.

Please Note... Although you can save money on vaccinations through these day clinics if they are available in your area, we still recommend that you continue your pet's annual vet checkups to keep them in the best of health!

Tip # 4 - Vets

Speaking of vet bills (just as with anything else), shop around town and see who has the best price. You would think all vets might charge the same amount for annual check ups and vaccinations but they do not. Also, you may prefer to pay more to keep your pet under the care of your personal veterinarian. Often we do this too, it just depends on your pets needs and your budget.

Tip # 5 - Home Medical Treatments

My sister-in-law has a lot of pets and saves money by ordering vaccinations and other medical treatments from the vet, and then administers them herself. Whether you have just one pet or a houseful it's certainly a good idea to get more information about this from your veterinarian. And you could save a fortune if you have a houseful of pets like she does! :o)

Tip # 6 - Fleas and Ticks

You can find a large variety of flea and tick prevention products just about everywhere, including your vet and local grocery stores. Advantix is just one on the market and it's what we use. Since this product is not available at our local discount stores I save a few dollars each year by purchasing it online at 1-800-PetMeds, actually I save quite a bit from what our local vet charges.

Tip # 7 - Heartworm Medicine

Heartworm prevention is a very important part of your pet's well-being so please discuss this with your vet during your next visit. When we were in the process of adopting our dog we were very sad to learn that so many animals were infected (and being treated at a huge expense by the rescue agency) for heartworms. Once your vet does a simple blood test to make sure he/she is not heartworm positive (the test is be repeated annually) they can then prescribe chewable heartworm prevention pills that are given to the pet once a month. And just as with the flea and tick products, you can also save money on heartworm prevention pills at 1-800-PetMeds.

Tip # 8 - Price Matching

Over the years I have also learned that some vets offer price matching for the products we like to purchase online to save money. Remember my favorite motto... "It never hurts to ask!"

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Readers' Tips...

" I contact different dog & cat food companies via e-mail, snail mail, or 800 number. I let them know in specifics what I liked or disliked about their product(s). If I have not tried their product I let them know I would be interested in a free sample. This usually nets some great samples, promotional items, & coupons. This works for other things beside pet food. But pet food companies really appreciate any feedback since they do not get much." - Dawn in WI

" Try shopping online with a friend, then you can split the shipping. I was buying a few things at Petco for my three dogs and found the very same things for half if not more of what I had already paid for them." - Shawna in Illinois

" Consider feeding your dog the B.A.R.F. Diet (Bones And Raw Food). This is better for the dogs health (bones, teeth and digestive system). Information about this diet is available at the Dachshund Rescue of America-web-site. I buy my dog food at Aldi's, which is still the cheapest place also for basic food items for humans. I get frozen raw chicken legs ($0.59/lbs.), frozen turkey meat ($0.79/lbs.), and hamburger meat as well as seasonally available raw vegetables for at least 60 to 70 % of the price I would pay in a traditional grocery store. By feeding your dog this diet your will save money on yearly dentals, which can run up to $100.00 per visit." - Anette in Columbus, Ohio.

"Don't buy pet tags from those little machines at the pet store! boomerangtags.com sells them for just a little more (around 7), and they last FOREVER. What's more, you get free shipping :) " - Margaret Stickland

I received this message from a very caring reader, who saw my previous tip about buying our dog food at Wal-Mart (she did not know we were already buying a very healthy, top quality dog food because I had failed to mention the brand name; IAMS--and I have since edited the tip to include this information). I sent her a note and am also including her tip here because it is something everyone should keep in mind when trying to save money on pet supplies...

"You will find that buying cheap Wal-Mart Dog food just doesn't pay off, because you will have more vet bills and health problems. It is much better to buy a GOOD quality dog food from a Feed and Hay Store. It very hard on the dog's system to keep switching those cheap foods. Usually most of the diseased parts from the slaughter house are used and then sprayed with a coating that the dogs like with very little nutritional variety. Right when the dog is in it's prime, it may develop a little case of cancer or liver problems, etc. IF you really love your pet you will not be cheap here." - Ann Patterson

"The yearly check up at the vets is a time for you to ask any questions of your vet, address any concerns you have with your pet and have a full check up of your pet, which may uncover problems that you are not even aware of. From experience I know that leaving problems and not getting regular check ups can end up far more costly and even put your pet at risk of serious illness and early death. With regards to price-shopping, I have worked at many different clinics with many different pricing schemes and generally find that you do get a better service at the more "pricey" clinics. It is not just enough to ask the cost of the spaying/neutering, you must also consider whether the pet gets a full check up before surgery, does it get fluids during the surgery, does it get pain relief and follow up examinations as a standard, and are the most sophisticated anesthetic drugs and monitoring protocols used? A vaccination or spay/neuter appointment encompasses a lot more than you would think!!" - Beth of Australia

"I just recently read where Vanessa Williams got her pet injected with a microchip. It typically costs between $20 and $40 a dog, and if they are missing, the dog can be scanned, and the dog and owner's information immediately appears for quick return home. The chip is supposed to be about the size of a grain of rice, and no negative effects have been discovered concerning the chip. It is injected with a syringe, and I watched it being done, and the dog seems to be in no pain. They disinfect the area and numb it with ice. Williams' dog was lost and found in a different state, and due to the microchip, the dog was returned promptly. This may be a cost effective way to ensure your pet comes home. If you look into the price of vaccinating your pet and feeding them alone, it is a good investment, not only for the return of a family member, but saving you a lot of money keeping from replacing not only the memories of a lost loved one, but the fees associated with replacing a pet." Dala A.

"I adopted a cat recently and needed to get him neutered, and his vaccinations. I contacted our local animal shelter and was able to get everything done for only $38.00! When I called my usual vet to find out her charges it was going to be $89 for the spaying and $45 for the vaccines. I couldn't believe the difference. The animal shelter also does annual vaccines as well for much cheaper than my vet. Thanks for letting me share!" - Vicki in California

When purchasing your pet meds online...flea & tick/& heartworm, go through ebates.com. You can get money back on your shopping, and it is free to sign up. I just signed up a week ago & with one purchase of a six month supply of pet meds I earned an additional $13 back! I shop at petcarerx.com which automatically gives you 10% off anyway, and through ebates I get an additional 13% cash back. In addition to all that I got a free $5 gift certificate for my next purchase as well as free shipping! I also use ebates for other online shopping and use google to search for coupon codes for the web site I am purchasing from. I take my dog to the vet inside most Petsmart stores. The vet is called Banfield. The one near me is really great & very sweet to my pet. She loves going there. I signed her up for a plan. You choose one based on your dog's/cat's age and/or needs and you pay a certain amount per month. I pay about $30 per month for my 7 year old dog & it covers a lot. I save at least a thousand dollars per year versus the other vets in my area. - Carrie from Fairfax, VA

"The Banfield Vet inside our local Petsmart offers a shot clinic on a walk-in basis on Saturday mornings. They charge only for the vaccination and a medical waste disposal fee---no office visit charge. This enables me to update my dog's bordatella every 6 months as required by area boarding facilities for less than half the cost of an office visit alone at our usual vet. We feed our dogs Purina. They often have 2 coupons in the same insert, one for a smaller amount off a smaller bag, another for a larger amount off a larger bag. I use both---the price per pound is usually just as good for the smaller bag when the coupon is applied. I watch for free samples and exceptional coupon offers on other quality foods, and mix those foods in with their normal food to stretch it at no cost. (For instance, we recently had a $6 coupon for a $9 bag of one of Purina's non-premium foods---I mixed it in with their premium label food.) Nothing saves money like bathing and grooming your dog at home. It costs $55 each to have them "detailed" at the local pet store, and they needed to go about every 6 weeks. For $150, I was able to buy a grooming arm that clamps on to a folding table, a nice set of clippers, a rotary tool and clippers for nail maintenance, starter supplies (shampoo, etc.), scissors, and a video about how to do it that I can now re-sell. In cold weather we bathe them in the bathtub. In warm weather, we use a plastic wading pool that I bought at a yard sale for 50 cents." - Karen M.

"Look for products that are replaced if they are destroyed. I buy Lupine brand collars and leashes because if they wear out, get chewed up, etc., Lupine will replace them for free, no questions asked. You can get a replacement at any local store that sells the brand, the store will do the replacement and take care of sending the old one back to the company. I buy PetSakes dog beds because they will replace a bed up to 3 times if it gets destroyed. Also, if you dog likes to destuff and destroy toys, buy old kids' toys at yard sales (remember to remove all plastic eyes/noses or other small parts) and let the dog have those to destroy. You can usually spend $1 and get several toys, rather than $3-7 for one from the pet store." - Abby Jakoplic

Editor's Note: We have included this reader's tip regarding buying old kids' toys at yard sales for overactive dogs who like to destroy pet toys. Note, the tip also says to remove all plastic eyes/noses or other small parts. These used kids toys will cost a fraction of what new ones do at the pet store, this is certainly correct. However, another reader wrote to me with a great point, not all kid toys are safe for dogs to chew! Especially if you have large dogs like we do, they sometimes not only tear the toy apart, but they ingest the plastic parts or stuffing as they chew. So please be careful and provide safe chew toys for your pet. :o)

"Here are some pet care tips that I have learned over the years, having a lot of dogs. EXERCISE: All pets need this and so do we. When we give our pet's the proper amount of exercise they will be happy healthy and will be less likely to tear our stuff up and be a problem pet. After all do you want to work extra when you are tired? nd taking our dogs for a walk will help us also. Both will be in better shape and live a much healthier life. FOOD: I have checked out a lot of foods. I have found that most contain fillers; corn, wheat and by products. These are nothing but stuff to make the animal feel full and give it no benefit whatsoever. Most animals have allergies to these things and the owner will spend a lot of money trying to find out what is wrong with their pet. When buying a pet food buy ones that have no grain, wheat or by products. Yes they make them. Buy the best you can afford. Another thing about getting a good food, when your pets eats good food their body will use it up so it will eat less and poop less. When you can do better you will do better. SHOTS: Check out the SPCA or PETA in your area. Here, our SPCA has a full vet clinic and will do the job for about 1/2 the price of the vet. Our SPCA has low cost dog houses for low income people. If you are having a little trouble with the cost of health care for your pet they might help here. The people at the SPCA want to help and want you to keep your pet. Our PETA is offering to fix your pet for $5.00 and $5.00 for rabies shots. No where else will you get a deal like this. While on this subject PLEASE get your pet fixed. In America we euthanize about 9.6 million a year that is not including the ones that are abused. If you love animals don't be a part of the problem be a answer to it. We as pet owners can put a stop to most of this by fixing our pets and keeping them at home not running loose. TOYS: Be careful about which toys you get your pet. Some have a coating that is harmful to them. This coating is to make the dog to want to chew on the "bone". We make most of ours. Our dogs like old towels with a knot tied in it so they can drag each other around. We have 2 large dogs. Both about 70 to 90 lbs. Take all of your old socks and stuff them into one, tie a knot in the end. Sometimes we go to the dollar store and find a few things they will like. As with most pets and kids, they just want to be with you. They will be very happy to spend time with you. Enjoy them both till you are content. Love them with all your heart and live a long happy life." - J. Sterling

"Engraved pet tags. I used one of these machines to create a name/phone number tag for my key chain. Believe me, I will lose my keys, but will often have my cell phone on me. I've been in a store and received a call telling me that my keys were waiting for me at the manager's desk more than once. The cost of the tag is much, MUCH cheaper than hiring a locksmith to re-key everything. Cheers!" - Pamela M.

"I love the dog story and my pug has the same bed he chews on. I buy large cans of dog food which I halve for 2 feedings. He is picky though and only eats drained and washed chunks. Kroger also sells 12 cans for around $7 which is better than paying $1 a can. We buy 1 pack every 2 weeks. Bulk I find is better for us and helps us save money." - Lori S.

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Copyright 2003-2013 © by Michelle Jones, Founder of GrocerySavingTips.com. All rights reserved.

Canned Goods Aisle

2013-07-27T19:24:00.000-04:00

Save Money on Groceries: Canned Goods
by Michelle Jones, GrocerySavingTips.com

Tip # 1 - Store Brands

My number one tip for canned goods... buy the store brands and stock up when they're on sale! Prices for name brand canned goods have really increased over the years so don't buy them unless they are on sale or a store brand is unavailable (see Tip # 3).

Tip # 2 - Money Back Guarantee

Most store brands are very high quality and offer a money-back guarantee, don't be afraid to ask for your money back if you're not happy with the product. You may even be helping the company take measures to improve the product!

Tip # 3 - No Store Brand

Some canned food items do not have a store brand and in this case (if you just can't live without the item), at least buy it when it goes on sale and/or make good use of coupons!

Tip # 4 - Dented Cans

Don't waste money on dented cans unless you are sure they are safe. And if you drop one and dent it yourself, be polite. Don't put it back on the shelf to be someone else's problem. Dented cans are safe if used right away, and/or if the seal at the top and bottom are not broken. When canned seals are broken by a dent the store will have to throw them away.

Tip # 5 - Frozen

Many canned foods such as green beans, carrots, corn and peas are also available frozen, keep an eye on sales and pack that freezer full when you find a good one! (Use frozen produce within 3-6 months for the best flavor.)

Tip # 6 - Soups and Chicken Stock

Wow, soups have really gotten expensive! So as with many products, the best thing to do is buy them only when they're on sale, or save even more by making your own at home. And forget paying for chicken stock in the can or box. Every time you boil a chicken you've got free chicken stock!

* * * BONUS RECIPE * * *

Chicken Stock
by Michelle Jones

Ingredients:

1 Boiler/Fryer Chicken, rinsed and inside giblets removed
1 Chicken bouillon cube, or 1 tsp. granuals
1-2 Celery stalks, rinsed
1-2 Carrots, rinsed and tops removed
1/2 - 1 Onion, peeled and quartered
Salt and pepper, as desired
Bay leaf

Directions:

Fill a large pot with water and add all the above ingredients. Bring water to a boil over high heat, cover, lower heat to a simmer and continue to cook until chicken is done. About 1 - 2 hours.

Remove chicken and use in any desired recipe, or cut up and store in the fridge for later use. To make stock: Remove vegetables from the pot. Strain liquid if a clear broth is desired. Divide stock into freezer containers and store in the freezer until needed for future recipes.

Enjoy!

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Tip # 7 - Spaghetti Sauce, Ditto

Just like the chicken stock, make a large pot of sauce and divide it into airtight freezer storage containers. If your budget is really tight just use a little sauce with each meal so the batch will last longer. Example: Instead of dividing a batch of homemade sauce into two portions, divide it into three or four.

Tip # 8 - Fresh is Best

Buy FRESH grocery items instead of canned, when in season!

Tip # 9 - Family Size

Many canned vegetables, like green beans, baked beans and yams, come in large family-size containers. And often, they are cheaper to buy this way. (Especially when they are on sale!) If you do not have a large family and are unable to use up all the food within a couple of days just pop the leftovers in the freezer. You don't have to have a large family to benefit from large "family size" sales.

Tip # 10 - Leftovers

Since I was a young child, my mom always saved small amounts of leftover vegetables in her freezer to make all kinds of delicious (and frugal!) soups. You could also do the same with small leftover amounts of cooked beef, poultry or ham (for added protein), and add pasta or rice for heartier soups.

* * *

Readers' Tips...

"I've gone through countless amounts of tomato paste because my recipe calls for 1 or 2 T. of tomato paste and the rest ends up getting thrown away because I can't use it fast enough. Now I take the unused portion in the can and plastic wrap into 1-2 T. dollops and freeze them. Then when a recipe calls for a tablespoon, I just pop one tablespoon out of the freezer straight into the skillet. I can't say it's saved me a ton of money, but at least I'm not wasting tomato paste!" - Debbi

"When I buy canned vegetables, I go to Aldi. They taste just as good as the name brands but they are only 45 cents compared to 80 to $1. Most store brands around the Indianapolis area are around 55 - 60 cents each. So, I go to Aldi and buy 12 cans of each vegetable we like which saves a lot of money over the course of a year." - Julena

"Stock-Chicken, beef or turkey, can also be made up in the Crock Pot as well as simmered on the store. I prefer to use the Crock Pot or sometimes the tabletop oven roaster, cooking on low. I just let the bones, water and veggies simmer all night in the Crock Pot. I purchase the bouillon base at Sam's club or grocery stores also carry it, and add it instead of salt. I get flavor and salt at the same time. Remove the veggies, and refrigerate the stock to bring the fat to the top for easy removal. At that point you can freeze it, or now use it as a soup base." - Patricia

"When a recipe calls for a small amount of tomato paste or chicken stock (or any other cooking liquid), I take the remaining paste or stock and put it in ice cube trays, plastic wrap and freeze them. When they are frozen, put them in a labeled bag and use as needed. You can always fill up one ice cube section with water and measure the amount beforehand, to know how much paste or stock you get with one cube." - Samina

"Tomato paste in a tube is a little more expensive than the stuff in a can, but it lasts indefinitely in your fridge. I have saved a ton of money by not wasting the extra tomato paste from the cans." - Melissa Smith

"This tip is about canned food. Some grocery stores have a room or aisle towards the back of the store for markdown and scratch & dent items. The grocery store I worked at a couple years ago would mark down all the dented cans to 25 or 50 cents. - Abby J. (Editor's Note: Dented cans are safe as long as the dent is on the side of the can and not on the top or bottom edge, which seal the can closed.)

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Copyright 2003-2013 © by Michelle Jones, Founder of GrocerySavingTips.com. All rights reserved.

Bread Aisle

2013-07-27T19:14:00.000-04:00

Save Money on Groceries: Bread
by Michelle Jones, GrocerySavingTips.com

Tip # 1 - Hot Dog Buns

Breads can vary in price dramatically. While the store-brand of hot dog buns make cost 99¢, a more popular name-brand may be $1.99 or more. Now, why would we do that!! I know they may taste a little bit better, but is it worth $51.48? That's how much money you'll save each year if you purchase the store brand every week instead of the more expensive one. If you're going to spend more money it would probably be much better to buy better quality hot dogs! :o)

Tip # 2 - Sandwich Bread

Now sandwich bread and hamburger buns are a little different. We know it's important for our good health to eat whole grain breads every day, and not the cheaper fluffy white stuff we may have grown up on as a child. This is where it's good to spend a little extra money. The more grains in the bread the better!

Tip # 3 - Specialty Breads

Head to the deli/bakery department for fresh baked bread. They often have great sales and that's when to bring an extra bread loaf home. Our favorite is the Italian Sweet Round bread, or the Italian Loaf, but I only buy them when they're on sale!

* * * BONUS RECIPE * * *

EASY Garlic Bread
by Michelle Jones

Ingredients:

1 French or Italian Loaf
1/2 - 1 stick of butter or margarine
Garlic powder
Parsley, if desired

Directions:

Slice the long loaf diagonally into 2" thick pieces. Arrange the bread slices on a baking sheet, with the larger flat sides up (they'll hold more butter that way!) Preheat oven to Broil. In a small bowl, melt 1/2 stick of butter (or more) in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Add a tsp. of garlic powder (more or less if desired) to the melted butter and spread on the tops of each bread slice with a basting brush. Sprinkle a dash of parsley (fresh or dried) on each slice if desired, it adds a nice touch.

Place bread in the oven and broil for just a few minutes, until the tops of the bread slices start to turn brown around the edges. Be careful not to let them burn, this is not a good time to walk away from the kitchen!

Enjoy! :o)

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Tip # 4 - Bagels

YUM! We love 'em too, but they can sure be expensive. When we lived in VA our grocery store (Kroger) had a wonderful store-brand line of bagels that cost less and tasted great! Maybe your store does too, have you tried them? Years ago when money was really tight for our family, I would purchase the frozen Lenders bagels, in the freezer section. They were always cheaper than the ones you'd find in the bread or deli section and toasted up just fine!

Tip # 5 - Crackers

I'm not sure if every store does this, but it seems most do. On the end of the bread aisle you may find rows and rows of snack crackers, like cheese/peanut butter, cheese/cheese, toast/cheese, etc.... These will be boxes of 8 or so packages in one, and are great for kid's school snacks. If you've forgotten to pick up the crackers that were located in the middle of the store (since they usually place the bread section at the end of the store), it might be pretty convenient to pick a package or two up at this point. But, I have observed over the years that THESE crackers rarely go on sale!! The cracker brands that go on sale are usually the ones in the middle of the store, so use caution and look for that price tag!

Tip # 6 - Doughnuts

If the stores in your part of the country, or world, are not blessed with Krispy Kreme doughnut delivery, the next best thing is the bakery donuts. Not the packages of little white powdered things in the bread aisle, though I know... my kids love them too! Hey, it's okay to splurge once in a while! The only way I've found so far to save money on doughnuts is to just stay far away from them! Or, if I have to walk by them (especially if my kids are with me), I speed up hoping they won't notice them! ;o)

Tip # 7 - Prepackaged Cinnamon Rolls

Okay, so they're all I could eat for a brief time during my 4th pregnancy, but BLEHHH!! If you want cinnamon rolls it's better to either make your own or head over to the freshly baked ones in the bakery dept., they will taste much better and if you're in luck they'll be on sale!!

Tip # 8 - Storage

A great way to save money is to keep your perishable grocery items from spoiling! Breads can easily be stored in the refrigerator to extend freshness or in the freezer for longer storage periods. While a loaf of bread sitting on your counter can go bad in less than a week, one stored in the fridge can last for several weeks.

Tip # 9 - Make Your Own Homemade Bread

I know many frugal cooks who make their own breads at home and this is also a great way to save money. Homemade bread recipes abound in cookbooks and on the web. If you have a recipe you'd like to share with our readers please contact us!

* * * BONUS RECIPE * * *

Italian Cheese Bread
submitted by Donna Little

This is a recipe for killer Italian cheese bread. I like to double the recipe because I like my bread really gooey. Trust me, there will be none left. Oh, and you can make this into pizzas by just adding pepperoni and such. It tastes great even though there is no tomato based sauce on it!

6 tablespoons margarine or butter, softened
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 Tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon oregano leaves, crumbled
1-2 dashes cayenne pepper

Spread on 1/2 loaf of Italian bread. Bake at 400 degrees until the cheese begins to brown, perhaps 10 minutes or so. Yum!

* * *

Readers' Tips...

"You can take leftover hot dog buns and use the same recipe you provided for garlic bread! My boys loved them and I won't have to throw away old hot dog buns." - Kathy H.

"I live in the Dallas, TX area and found out you can go to a Bagel store (Einstein Brothers Bagels and probably all of them!) at the end of the day and they will GIVE you their day old bagels since they are not up to their fresh standards by 5 p.m. to SELL them. I have a co-worker who had to provide snacks for her son's wrestling team event. She contacted The Corner Bakery a few days in advance to ask for their cookies, muffins, etc. at closing time that they did not sell. She had TRAYS of both items in abundance to bring to the school event and also to work. These items were given - FREE to those who ask! They tasted great since they were served the very next day. I don't know if this would also apply to an individual going into the store at closing time or just to organizations. Also, to freeze bagels or donuts, freeze the extras in airtight boxes or bags and let them defrost on the kitchen counter before serving them. Whatever you can find in the frozen section of the grocery stores you can freeze fresh items yourself at home. Just make sure you get as much air out of the container before freezing to prevent ice and freezer burn." - Donna
Y.

"I ALWAYS kept our bread in the fridge. But then I read this and have started to keep it out, or in the freezer if I think we won't eat it soon. Just wanted to pass it on... 'Bread kept in the fridge goes stale about four times as fast as it does at room temperature. Staling can occur either when the bread dries out through evaporation or when cooked starch molecules in the bread cool and form a crystalline structure. Crystallization forces water out of the starch molecules and causes the bread to become more firm in texture. We think of staling as being a loss of water when in fact, the water content may still be the same, just no longer trapped by starch molecules. The cooler temperature of the fridge increases the speed at which crystallization occurs. As long as it hasn't actually dried out, bread that is stale from crystallization of its starch molecules can be made palatable again by reheating it. This usually only works well one time, though. So, for soft textured bread, keep it in a bread box or paper bag. This will hold some of the moisture in, while keeping the crust firm. Some people prefer to use a plastic bag, which will keep the bread softer longer but encourage spoilage by holding moisture in. It will also soften the crust. Bread kept in the fridge may spoil slower, but it will go stale much faster. If you don't usually finish a loaf before it starts to spoil at room temperature, freeze part and thaw it at room temperature later. Frozen bread neither spoils nor goes stale quickly and can be kept for several months.' Thanks for all the great tips!" - Anne Napieralski

"Frozen Bread Dough - Use for pizza crust. Use for focaccia bread (roll out thin, brush with olive oil), then tear off bits and dip in olive oil sprinkled with Italian seasonings. Pecan/Cinnamon rolls. Thaw, roll out thin, then dust with brown sugar, your choice of spices, dot with butter (margarine turns it to mush), add other things as desired. Roll up, cut into spirals, then proof again for about 30 minutes before baking. Can also be done the night before and allowed to rise in fridge. Sooooo good! Refrigerated Biscuit Dough - Monkey Bread - cut each round into 4 pieces, roll in brown sugar, cinnamon, some ginger, place in bundt pan or other round pan, dotting with butter bits throughout. Bake at 350 for about 35 minutes. Cool for 15 minutes then place onto inverted plate. A real hit with my teens! Roll each one flat, cut into strips and drop into lightly boiling chicken soup. This is a wintertime favorite. Roll each one flat, stuff with smoked sausage rounds (no larger than 1" each). Close ends with water to seal and pierce for venting steam. Bake at 350 for 15 minutes." - Wasakava

"You can freeze dry yeast if it is nearing it's expiration date. I learned this through necessity. Just pop it in a freezer bag or container and plunk it in the freezer. It really does work! I have had yeast in my freezer for as long as a year with no problems." - Mary Walker

"Make your own specialty bread by taking a loaf of bread and run EVOO and crushed garlic that were heated together on the stove until garlic is cooked for a few minutes. You can also have a little butter mixed with it Then put a little oregano in the palm of your hand, teaspoon to tablespoon, and take your other hand with two fingers and smush together over the garlic and oil on the bread. Then broil for a few minutes. Yum!" - Lorene

"I buy the last day of sale bread at Walmart all the time; the prices are 50% or more off the regular price and the quality is terrific, especially the specialty breads. We then cut each loaf in half, double bag, and freeze. Half a loaf at a meal is the perfect size for our family, sometimes there are a few slices left over which I then turn into croutons or bread crumbs. For a more homemade taste, wrap your bread in foil and warm-up in your oven or toaster oven." - Nancy Funk

"Here’s a tip my mother taught me on keeping bread in the freezer longer. (I think she kept bread in the freezer 3-6 months at a time). You can freeze bread longer and not get the ‘freezer burn’ by placing the bread loaf in a brown paper bag. Use a paper bag that is 1” taller than length of the bread. Fold the bag to enclose the bread loaf—leaving 1” breathing room which allows air to circulate. If you close up the bread tightly, it causes the bread to become wet on one side when thawed. Leave the bag open at the end--Don’t seal up the bag. It is important to keep the bag lying flat in the freezer. This process must be done for each bread loaf. One cannot put all loaves in same bag." - Patty Yates

Editor's Note: Thank you Patty! My mom always kept bread in the fridge because she lived alone and it would keep for weeks that way. I still prefer fresh and just buy what we need for the week. I try not to be brand picky, just get whatever is on sale. Or make homemade, yum! - Michelle

"Sometimes grocery stores will mark down brand name cereals due to over buying and it is not advertised. Last week at Meijer's I found Cap'n Crunch on sale for $1.66 a box! Since I couldn't pass it up (my family loves it) I grabbed 3 boxes. It was cheaper than if I bought it on sale with a coupon! Always keep an eye out on clearance!" - Jenni Smith

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Bakery Aisle

2013-07-27T18:40:00.000-04:00

Save Money on Groceries: Bakery
by Michelle Jones, GrocerySavingTips.com

Tip # 1 - Bakery Cookies vs. Homemade Cookies

Bakery Cookies. 12 cookies for $3.99, or more? You've got to be kidding! Visit our Cookie Club for great recipes and make your own, www.CookieClubRecipes.com. You can also freeze most cookie doughs and bake a dozen up any time you want, for a fraction of the cost. And not only are home baked cookies healthier and cheaper for you and your family, they taste better too!

Tip # 2 - Birthday Cakes

If you need large cakes more than once a year go ahead and invest in a quality sheet cake pan so you can save money by baking them at home. That's what we did a few years ago and it's been a lot of fun being able to make homemade birthday cakes large enough to feed the entire neighborhood. For under $5.00!

Tip # 3 - Cake Baking

Just as with birthday cakes, the same goes for all non-decorated and decorated cakes. You will save a fortune making your own at home. You can find hundreds of free cake recipes online and at our cake site, www.CakeClubRecipes.com.

Tip # 4 - Cupcakes for School Parties

Did you know you can buy cupcakes and mini-cupcakes, as well as lovely decorated cakes and other desserts at warehouse discount stores like Sam's Club and Costco's? Our local school board has instituted a new rule for bringing birthday cupcakes (and any type of snacks to be shared) to school, they have to be store-bought. I know, it's a good rule in these times, but isn't it a shame? Our youngest just started Kindergarten and when it came time to celebrate her birthday (the first week of school!), a good friend told me I could get them in quantity at Sam's Club. Boy was she right! I got 4 boxes of mini-cupcakes (which normally sell at the grocery stores for $2.99 each), for $6.87. That's a savings of over $5.00!

Tip # 5 - Cupcake Sprinkles

I don't really care for bakery cupcakes, I don't know why, they just don't usually taste as good as homemade. Unfortunately, my kids love them. I think it's because of the sprinkles. So if you've got kids in the house this would be a great tip, keep a good supply of sprinkles at home and maybe (hopefully) they'll stop asking for bakery cupcakes!

Tip # 6 - Pies and Homemade Pie Crusts

Everyone loves presenting a delicious pie for dessert but with the added time and trouble of making a homemade crust, you may feel it's just easier to pick one up from the bakery. (And they're surely hard to resist when they go on sale!) But even when pies are on sale, it's still usually cheaper to make your own. And besides, bakeries almost always overcook their pie crust!

* * * BONUS RECIPE * * *

Here's my favorite recipe for homemade Pie Crust:

Ingredients

2 c. all-purpose flour
1 c. vegetable shortening (minus a little bit)
1 tsp. salt
4 T. cold water

Directions

In a large bowl, mix 1st three ingredients together with fingers gently. Add water and blend with fingers again until dough begins to form. Divide dough in half and roll each out onto floured surface to make 2 pie crusts. Enjoy!

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Tip # 7 - Muffins

Not only are bakery muffins VERY expensive, do you know how many fat grams are in those huge things? Trust me, you don't want to know! Make your own muffins at home and your wallet will thank you, as well as your waistline!

Tip # 8 - Doughnuts and Pastries

Doughnuts and pastries. We have found that grocery store donuts are often quite tasty and a lot cheaper than the more popular brands located throughout the store. You might want to try them sometime.

Tip # 9 - Best Bakery Tip

This will probably be my best bakery tip, of all. Don't go anywhere NEAR the bakery department unless you have to. Or, if you must, walk through it very quickly! ;o)

* * *

Reader Tips...

"It's cheaper to make your own baked goods, so for convenience, bake large amounts at once, then freeze the extras in individual portions. You can freeze almost anything, including pancakes, waffles, muffins, cakes, cookies, etc. It's best to freeze the cooked food, not the batter, so it will keep longer. - Melisa Leduc

"Make your own doughnuts at home. Take store bought biscuits and use a small round object such as a soda cap to make the hole for the doughnut. Deep fry the doughnut and doughnut hole and sprinkle with sugar or make a glaze out of confectioners' sugar." April Conroe, of Texas

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Toiletries Aisle

2013-07-27T17:15:00.000-04:00

Save Money on Groceries: Toiletries and Other Grocery Items
by Michelle Jones, GrocerySavingTips.com

Tip # 1 - Lowest Price

Check your local stores to find the lowest price on the items you regularly use, such as shampoo, toothpaste, deodorant, lotion, soap, makeup, etc. In our area, Wal-Mart usually has the lowest price for toiletries, unless the item is on sale at another store. And they also accept coupons.

Tip # 2 - Drug Stores

Read the sale flyers each week, sometimes they have products on sale for half price or buy 1/get 1 free, which just might even beat the prices at your favorite discount store.

Tip # 3 - Grocery Store Sales

Same with grocery stores; they sometimes have really good sales on hair products, makeup, and toiletries. So be sure to read those sale flyers.

Tip # 4 - Dollar Stores

Don't forget to check the dollar stores, like the Dollar Tree, Dollar General, Family Dollar, etc... they offer a limited supply of toiletries, but great prices.

Tip # 5 - Favorite Brands

Most 'Dollar' stores don't carry the same products all throughout the year, they just sell whatever comes in on their trucks each week. So, if you find a great price on your favorite name brand toiletry and beauty items it might be a good idea to stock up while they have them!

Tip # 6 - Store Brands

Store brands are limited, but when available try them out. I've probably saved thousands of dollars just using store brands over the last 20 years!

Tip # 7 - Refunds

If you do try a store brand product and find it's quality is very poor, take it back to the store and politely ask for a refund. (This includes brand names as well, and, makeup.)

Tip # 8 - Long Lasting

When you get your products home, try to make them last as long as possible. That will help you save even more money!

Tip # 9 - To Stock or Not to Stock

Whenever you find a really great sale, say 50% off or more, buy two instead of one. I wouldn't stock up much further than that, save your money for other things you'll need throughout the month. Most items go on sale regularly so you can buy more later.

Tip # 10 - Department Store Free Gifts with Purchase

If you're one of those department store shoppers who loves to get a 'free gift' with any $25 - $50 purchase... my best advice is to toss the advertisement in the trash so you won't remember to get to the store before the offer expires. (Either that, or consider giving your purchase AND the free gift to two very special people on your Christmas list. I'm sure they will love them! ;o)

Tip # 11 - Disposable Razors

Disposable razors are practically always going on sale (and offering coupons here in the US), so never, never, never pay full price for them! It seems the industry has been working overtime over the last decade to make regular razors and disposable razors cooler than ever... but along with those sleek new styles come a hefty price tag when they're not on sale so shop wisely!

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Readers' Tips...

"Instead of buying name brand regular everyday over-the-counter medicine products for things such as headaches, such as Tylenol® or Advil®, opt for their equivalent. There is a law that requires store brand equivalents to work the EXACT SAME as name brand medicine. The ONLY difference is that the non-name brand is less expensive than the name brand. Just make sure that you know what the non-name brand product is equivalent to! " - Steve Muras

(Thank you for adding this to my store brand tip #5 Steve, we rarely ever buy the name brand of medicine products, just like you! The ingredient name to look for when substituting Tylenol® is Acetaminophen and with Advil® it's Ibuprofen. We also routinely get the store brands for cough and allergy medicines too, they all seem to work great.)

"My husband has a very thick, coarse beard. His employer requires him to be clean shaven. He has used expensive blades such as Gillette Mach 3 and Gillette Turbo for years. A couple of months ago he came across a tip to make them last longer than his usual 1-2 weeks. He leaves a Mason jar of rubbing alcohol on the bathroom counter and when he is done shaving, he dips the blade in the alcohol and wipes it dry. The alcohol prevents the blade from rusting, which is what actually dulls the blade. Now his blades last about 4-5 weeks." Missy R.

"I like to read instructions (or destructions, as I call them!) on products. I noticed that there really aren't any instructions on toothpaste boxes. So why have we been wetting our tooth brushes when we put toothpaste on our brush? I stopped doing that and have saved in two ways: we don't use as much water, and we don't use as much toothpaste. Plus, with the 'whitening' toothpastes, my teeth seem to be whiter. How cool is that?" - Sherall

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Copyright 2003-2013 © by Michelle Jones, Founder of GrocerySavingTips.com. All rights reserved.

Soda Aisle

2013-07-27T17:13:00.000-04:00

Save Money on Groceries: Soda
by Michelle Jones, GrocerySavingTips.com

Tip # 1 - The Healthier Option

Of course the best way to save money on sodas is to start drinking water instead, and it's a lot healthier too!

Tip # 2 - 50% Less

If you can't cut the soda habit completely, try just cutting your family's consumption in half. That will help.

Tip # 3 - Rotating Sales

Sales for these products vary from week to week, but I have noticed when Coke products are on sale Pepsi products are not, and vice versa. So, either stock up when your brand of choice is on sale or switch back and forth depending on the sale. At our local stores, a 2-liter on sale will cost about .99 cents, while a 2-liter not on sale will cost up to $1.79. In other words... No sale, No buy.

Tip # 4 - Smaller is Sometimes Better

Smaller containers (cans and bottles) are always more expensive than the 2-liters, so try to avoid purchasing those altogether if possible. On occasion I will buy one package of small sodas for my office and it will last for a couple of months. In a case like this smaller is better because once opened, a 2-liter will go flat quickly.

Tip # 5 - Cutting Back on Soda

Also, if you're cutting back on total soda consumption and may only drink 1 can or bottle of soda per week, then get them when they're on sale. You'll save money in the end because if you're only drinking a small amount each week you may end up having to pour the remainder of a 2-liter out. Thus making the smaller cans and bottles a better purchase.

Tip # 6 - Store Brand Sodas

A lot of store brand sodas are decent, but not great. Some of the flavors, like grape and orange, are pretty similar. Other than that, the decision is up to you. I suggest trying the store brands when they're on sale to see if you like them. If you don't, especially if it's just awful, take the remaining soda back to the store and ask for a refund. (You can do this, though I never have. I just leave it until someone finally drinks it up and then I try to remember to never buy it again.) And if you discover that you DO like the store brand sodas you may be able to save a small fortune over the next 20 years. ;o)

Tip # 7 - Sale Prices

Did you know sodas are always "sale priced" at Wal-Mart? It's true. I spent years waiting for my favorite sodas to go on sale each month and just doing without or switching brands when they weren't on sale, but now whenever I'm at Wal-Mart I just pick up a few of our favorite sodas while I'm there. If you're having a party and need a large supply of soda it would even be worth a special trip.

Tip # 8 - Large Containers

When buying sodas for large family gatherings or parties, here are two extra tips... First, stock up on sale items starting a month before the gathering (since there's sometimes a limit on the best sales.) And second, consider buying 3-liter containers, they almost always cost less per ounce. They don't fit in the fridge very well but as long as you keep the caps on tight, you can just set them out on the counter during the event and serve with ice.

Tip # 9 - Water

Okay, now I'm back to the water tip again... if we could all just make the switch from sodas to water we could REALLY save some money. And this tip is not just for the grocery stores, they offer water at restaurants too you know! ;o)

Tip # 10 - Price Matching

If you're not familiar with price matching at grocery stores, all you have to do is ask the sales associate for a price match... which means asking them to give you the lower price that's being offered at another store on the exact same item. This is especially easy when purchasing sodas because they are pretty much always on sale somewhere! Just look through the store flyers each week and when you go to your favorite store say to the cashier "Can I have a price match on this, it's on sale for (whatever price) at (whatever store)." That's all you have to do! If you're the first person to ask for the price match on that item they'll look it up in the sale flyers to confirm, but often they already know it's on sale because other shoppers have been asking for the same price match all week!

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Readers' Tips...

"Can't stand to drink just plain water? Need to cut back on sodas? Try this: put ice in a cup, fill cup 3/4ths with filtered water and fill last 1/4th with your favorite clear soda. One can will last you for a couple of refills when you water it down this way. You get the water you need and it's flavored with your favorite drink. You're also cutting back on sodas and saving money. A win/win all around! I also love to do this with orange juice and my favorite - grape juice! If you try this tip with "brown sodas" make it half and half. It tastes no different than the drinks you get when you go through a fast food drive-thru." - Karen Yates of Georgia

"For saving on the soda, if you get the 24oz bottles out the machines... keep the bottles rinse them out. Save about five or six of them. Then you can buy the 2 liters and refill them. That way you portion them out and will not drink as much." - Livena C

"Actually try and convince yourself that store-brand soda is the same. Have a double-blind test! If you don't pick the real Coke or Pepsi most of the time, it'll be easier to convince yourself to buy the store brand. I think you should address pop machines and avoiding them. I keep a case of drinks at my desk at my office. $1 for a can of coke is several times what you pay in the grocery store. Same with fountain drinks at fast food." - Arron C.

"Leftover flat soda gives white cakes and muffins some zing!" Dawn from VA

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Copyright 2003-2013 © by Michelle Jones, Founder of GrocerySavingTips.com. All rights reserved.

Pasta Aisle

2013-07-27T17:06:00.000-04:00

Save Money on Groceries: Pasta, Rice, Sauces
by Michelle Jones, GrocerySavingTips.com

Tip # 1 - Meal Planning

In general, pasta and rice dishes are filling and inexpensive. Try to include them in your meal planning at lease once or twice a week, when possible.

Tip # 2 - Storage

Buy the larger packages of pastas (spaghetti, macaroni, rigatoni, penne, shells, etc...) and use only what you need for your recipe. Then store remaining pasta in airtight containers. They're also really pretty in decorative glass jars on the counter.

Tip # 3 - Stocking Up

Stock up during sales, pasta and rice can go on sale REALLY CHEAP! (And it stores very well, I've never had any go bad.)

Tip # 4 - Variety

Just don't buy all of the same type of pasta or you'll find yourself a few months down the road wondering why you have 4 boxes of medium shells but no spaghetti! ;o)

Tip # 5 - Pasta

Buy store brand pastas when using with a good sauce, or a lot of ingredients, no one will notice the difference. You can use them all the time, but some of the other brands do taste better.

Tip # 6 - Double Up

Make your own pasta sauce at home. Cook up a double batch each time and freeze half in an airtight container to use later in the month.

Tip # 7 - Homemade

Don't waste your money on prepackaged gravies, make your own at home...

* * * BONUS RECIPE * * *

Homemade Brown Gravy
by Michelle Jones

Ingredients:

Pan juices from cooked meat
1 beef bouillon cube, if desired
1 and 1/2 c. water
1/4 c. all-purpose flour

Directions:

Remove cooked meat from pan and reserve a small amount of pan juices, skimming off extra fat. Add 1 c. of water to pan juices and bring to a low boil over med-high heat. Add beef flavored bouillon cube, if desired. Meanwhile, in a small cup or bowl, add 1/2 cup of water to about 1/4 c. flour and stir to dissolve. Slowly stir moistened flour into heated mixture, stirring constantly until thickened over medium heat.

Enjoy! :o)

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Tip # 8 - Preservatives

Look for additional recipes (in cookbooks and online) for any other gravies or sauces you normally purchase ready-made, just think of all the preservatives you'll be doing without. Not to mention the money you'll save!

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Readers' Tips...

"Freeze cooked brown rice. Instant brown rice makes eating healthy easier, but costs much more per pound than bulk brown rice. You can buy bulk brown rice, cook it for the hour it requires, cool it, then divide it into meal-size portions and freeze in plastic bags. Then just open the bag and defrost in the microwave when you want to use the rice." - Melanie

"If you do once a month cooking or just cook larger quantities and freeze them there are a few items that don't freeze well. One of them is actually cooked pasta. You don't need much time to cook the stuff anyway, and this way they won't go mushy. A tip for cooked rice - it freezes really well BUT don't freeze it with gravy or anything like that. Just freeze it in individual portions (as needed) and either store it next to the dish it is intended to go with, or write it down, so that you know it is." - Viv

"Ramen Noodles - I just found out I am allergic to soy. My ears have been watering and filling up and I feel like throwing up after my meals. This has gone on for about eight years. So, now I have to read all labels on everything. Forget the ramen noodles. They all have it. So do most nuts and breads. I bought plain rice noodles at the oriental market very cheaply in a big bag and make my own noodles servings using fresh veggies (carrots, cabbage, radish) and peanuts (non soy ones) as flavoring. Even chopped up apple and pear, steamed chopped kale, black pepper, chopped pecans, a little lemon juice – anything really. Scramble a fresh egg and add it to the noodles – yum. Shop for peanut butter with no soy and use it for a little peanut sauce. Much healthier than the old salty chemical laden soy laden ramen packages that are full of MSG." - Susan from GA

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Copyright 2003-2013 © by Michelle Jones, Founder of GrocerySavingTips.com. All rights reserved.

Paper Products Aisle

2013-07-27T17:04:00.001-04:00

Save Money on Groceries: Paper Products
by Michelle Jones, GrocerySavingTips.com

Tip # 1 - Make Room

Purchase paper products when on sale and stock up with an extra package or two if you have room for them in your kitchen pantry or garage.

Tip # 2 - Increase Savings

Coupons for these products are pretty common because the brand name companies are trying to win our business. Combine sales with coupons whenever possible to increase your savings.

Tip # 3 - Paper

Don't be brand loyal unless you can afford it... and even then, remember, it's just paper!

Tip # 4 - Discounts

As for store brands here, I cannot really recommend any that I've tried--especially not tissue products. I prefer to get the best buys on name brand products as often as possible by waiting for sales and using coupons when available. And shopping at discount stores.

Tip # 5 - Dollar Stores

Dollar stores are also great for paper products, each one may only have a small supply of name brand items but boy can they be cheap.

Tip # 6 - Monthly Trip

Schedule a monthly trip to your local discount store of choice to pick up any paper products you might need that may not have gone on sale yet. At least you'll still get them for a good price. (And trust me, running out of toilet paper because you're waiting for a better sale will not help your family get on board with your money-saving venture!)

Tip # 7 - Cheaper than Maid Service

Try to use paper plates and paper or plastic cups as little as possible, and these products should definitely be purchased at discount stores. As a busy working mom we often resort to using paper plates on a regular basis, but I still cringe every time I put them in my shopping cart. The only thing that I can say in my defense is that they are cheaper than maid service! ;o)

Tip # 8 - Picnics

Picnic supplies such as plastic forks, spoons and knives can also often be purchased at discount or dollar stores for much less than the grocery store, unless they're on a really good sale. Sometimes you can bring your regular tableware (just be careful not to throw them out with the trash) and bring them home to wash when the picnic is over. You can also look for a second set of inexpensive tableware at yard sales for outside use, and save your good set for inside use only.

Tip # 9 - Rotating Sales

Paper products (like toilet paper and paper towels) often go on rotating sales. In other words, "name brand A" may be on sale this week, while "name brand B" may go on sale next week, and so on. So if you prefer name brand paper products like we do, just play the game and be patient for your brand of choice to go on sale.

Tip # 10 - Ultra Cheap

Over the years I've found that the old saying 'you get what you pay for' often applies to several paper products. I won't even consider buying ultra cheap toilet paper, facial tissue or even paper towels that seem to run out within a few days. It may cost a little more to buy a better brand, but to me it's worth it. If you can get by with the store brand paper products, God bless you!

Tip # 11 - Wash and Reuse

Use washable hand towels in the kitchen as much as possible to cut down on your use of paper towels and napkins, this can make a huge difference. You'll need to take into account the cost of initially buying them and washing them each week, but still it should always be cheaper in the long run than using paper towels.

Tip # 12 - Not All Spills Are Equal

Teach your children the difference between a hand towel spill and a paper towel spill. For example: RED Kool-Aid is a definite paper towel spill!

* * *

Readers' Tips...

"Do you want to know how to get cubes of tissues at a quarter the cost? Just open the SIDE of an empty box (leave the plastic guides in) and take about 90 tissues out of one of the 280-count boxes of Kleenex (the only one that works because they are interleaved to pop up one at a time), fold them over and carefully tease the top Kleenex into the cube opening. Then tape the side of the box with a piece of package tape. I ALWAYS buy the big boxes with coupons and have refilled some of my cute little cubes more than four or five times before they begin to look ragged. And, when you are using them inside bathroom cube tissue dispensers it doesn't matter if the box you are refilling is beginning to look shabby." - Mary Johnson of Ohio

"I used to go through a roll of paper towels every day to every other day (I have kids that spill A LOT and I am a little OCD with cleaning and hand washing). I started buying bar towels from Walmart and using them in place of paper towels. I cleaned out a junk drawer by the sink and put the folded hand towels there. After a week or so it became second nature to grab a towel instead of a paper towel. At the end of the night I just toss the whole pile of rags in the wash and the next morning into the dryer, 30 minutes later, I am ready for the day! Also, just recently I found a local commercial cleaners that does hospital floor mats and restaurant napkins and table cloths. I went in and asked for any less than perfect bar towels, napkins, etc and they sold me a HUGE bag for $7. You can't buy the big pack of paper towels for that! The rags that were in really bad shape, I gave to my husband for his garage. I can't tell you the last time I bought a pack of paper towels! I later asked about less than perfect floor mats, they GAVE me a stack of thick commercial carpeted mats. They don't slip and are great for in front of the sink and stove where I seem to stand for hours. How cool, when they get really dirty I lay them on the back porch and hose them off. If I ever have to toss them, I don't feel guilty because they were free and I have gotten a TON of use out of them." - Kathyrn

"One store brand I do approve of, and I only buy Quilted Northern TP, is Target Brand. It’s hard to tell the difference. Although, if the QN is on sale, I’m not sure how much you would actually save with the Target brand." - Hillary Prichard

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Copyright 2003-2013 © by Michelle Jones, Founder of GrocerySavingTips.com. All rights reserved.

Milk and Dairy Aisle

2013-07-27T17:02:00.003-04:00

Save Money on Groceries: Dairy, Milk, Yogurt
by Michelle Jones, GrocerySavingTips.com

Tip # 1 - Milk

We've lived in 6 different states and I have consistently found that I can purchase gallons of milk cheaper at gas stations (convenience stores) and even dollar stores than at the local grocery stores. Isn't there something wrong with this picture? Whatever the reason is, you might as well try it in your town too.

Tip # 2 - Price Checking

Check all of your local stores to see who has the best price, they won't all be the same. And when you notice the price of milk going up in your selected store, check as you shop around town to see who now carries the best price. It can change from time to time.

Tip # 3 - Powdered Milk

Believe it or not, powdered milk tastes the same as regular milk when prepared ahead at night, I know because I've used it to supplement my own family's milk supply! I can save at least $6 a week just with this one item! (Remember, I have a family of 6 so we can go through 3-4 gallons of milk easy!)

Tip # 4 - Mix it Up

About once a week I'd buy one gallon of 2% milk at my favorite store that carries it for the best price, and then as I made the powdered milk throughout the week (which is non-fat). I'd add a few cups of the 2% milk to make it a little richer. You could also use whole milk if desired, but 2% is just as good.

Tip # 5 - Freeze It

Did you know that you can buy extra milk, skim milk is preferred, when it goes on sale and freeze it (making sure there is some room at the top so the container won't burst)? Although, I have to admit I do prefer fresh milk. You might want to try it at least once. Then, if you like it you can stock up during the big sales and save a bundle!

Tip # 6 - Brands

Check the brands! Invariably, at every store there is an expensive brand and a cheaper brand of milk available - and the taste is probably just the same. (I am not 100% sure it tastes the same because I have never purchased the more expensive brand, never!)

Tip # 7 - Expiration

Always check the expiration dates for your milk and other perishable food items you purchase, it's an unfortunate waste of money when things expire too soon.

Tip # 8 - Expiring Discount

You could also purchase a soon-to-expire gallon of milk (if your family can drink it up quick enough), and ask the manager for a discount.

Tip # 9 - Sour Milk

Milk will keep for several days, or up to a week, after you open it. After a few days the top of the jug may begin to smell a little sour but the milk inside should be fine. And if you ever find the milk has soured, it can still be used for baking.

Tip # 10 - Other Dairy Items

Most of the above tips also apply to cheeses, yogurts, sour cream and other dairy products. So if your family likes them stock up on all of these items when they go on sale.

Tip # 11 - Cheese

And did you know cheese freezes well too? It sure does! Buy several packages of your favorite cheese when it goes on sale (and by the time you use them up they will hopefully go on sale again!

* * *

Readers' Tips...

"I have discovered that block cheeses can change a little in texture after being frozen. So before these items go in the freezer I slice, shred or crumble, however I will be using it at a later time. Then I freeze. It also makes it easy to not have to let the entire amount thaw, I can just remove how much I need and leave the rest in the freezer and not have to worry about not using it before it molds." - Billie Jo Sword of NC

"My mother used to freeze milk when I was a girl but after thawing the fat in the milk would separate and float around in the milk; changing the taste and appearing un-appetizing. The only milk that can be frozen successfully and maintain it's flavor is skim milk. Just be sure to shake the milk after it has thawed. I do this all the time with no loss of flavor. The only time I have had a carton burst is when I re-froze it. Since my family goes through several gallons of milk a week, this saves us a lot of money. But, even if you don't drink as much milk as we do, buying it when it's on sale and freezing it can save you as much as $1 a carton." - Shirley Lesko of Texas

"I have two recipes for sweetened condensed milk substitutes that have come in handy when it was inconvenient to take a trip to the store (bad weather, bad hair day, etc.)." - Mary from Indiana
Here are Mary's recipes...

Sweetened Condensed Milk - Recipe 1

1 c. powdered milk
1/3 c. boiling water
2/3 c. sugar
2 or 3 Tbsp. margarine or butter
Whirl all ingredients in blender until sugar is dissolved. If too thick, thin with a dribble of water. This is about the same amount as one can of purchased milk.

Sweetened Condensed Milk - Recipe 2

1 1/2 c. powdered milk
1/2 c. water
3/4 c. sugar
1 Tbsp. margarine or butter, optional
Combine milk and water in a non-stick saucepan. Allow to stand about 15 minutes, whisking occasionally until smooth. Stir in sugar and butter. Cook and stir over medium heat until bubbly, about 4-5 minutes. Turn heat to low and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, about 5 minutes more or until it is smooth. Makes 1 1/3 c. or 1 can milk.

"I came from a family of 7 kids. Hard to keep refrigerated milk in the house! My mom always baked with powdered milk. She'd liquefy it if it needed to be, however, the dry powder can be mixed in with the dry ingredients for biscuits, etc. Just use 1/3 cup dry milk for every cup of liquid milk called for. Mix the extra water in when recipe says add the wet ingredients. Has worked for 50 years in my baking. It's much cheaper and as nutritious. Another idea for tomato paste. Freeze the leftovers from those Costco large sizes in plastic ice cube trays. Pop them out into a plastic bag when frozen. The lowly bean is an incredible value in terms of protein and fiber. Buy the store brand of beans when on sale. When ready to cook in a recipe open the cans of beans and dump into a colander to rinse well under cold water. This will remove a lot of the indigestible surface starch and the resulting gas issues. Serve in soup, make chili, etc. Use a lot less meat and up the family nutrition! By the way, served with rice, beans are a complete protein." - Valleri C.

"Being a mother of 2 young girls (both in time consuming car seats!) and having a husband who frequently works 60+ hours/week, I find myself "wasting" money by not returning small items that are in some way defective simply because I don't want to buckle up both girls two times so that I can get my $3.00 back. With that being said, I discovered that on numerous occasions, I found my milk to be sour when I opened it. Instead of taking it right back up to the store, I 'ate' the cost and bought another gallon on my next trip out of the house. Now, when I purchase milk, I carry the gallon upside down to the cart. You will know the condition of your milk if the top leaks. Leaky lid equals suspect milk! You would be surprised how often this has saved me. Hope this can help someone else!" - Katie B.

"Just wanted to add that cheese may freeze ok, but cream cheese does not." - Sarah

"I switched to the milk that was labeled as coming from cows not fed growth hormones, which was a bit more expensive. One day I decided to actually look at the websites of both milk companies, the cheaper one I had been buying before was also from growth-hormone free cows, it just didn't advertise that on the label." - Abby J.
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Copyright 2003-2013 © by Michelle Jones, Founder of GrocerySavingTips.com. All rights reserved.

Proteins, Meat, Seafood

2013-07-27T16:58:00.004-04:00

Save Money on Groceries: Protein Foods, Meat, Seafood
by Michelle Jones, GrocerySavingTips.com

Tip # 1 - Eat Less

One of the best ways to save money on a high priced protein (such as steaks and seafood) is to not eat a lot of it. Remember, smaller portions are also healthier anyways!

Tip # 2 - Chicken

Of course most of us need (and enjoy) protein in our daily diets, so when you do purchase them be sure to buy only what's on sale each week! If you only like one or two certain items, like chicken breasts or butterfly pork chops, then stock up when they go on sale.

Tip # 3 - Fish

Here's a good example... Orange Roughy is our favorite fish (a mild flavored white fish), and unfortunately it's also one of the most expensive. So instead of buying it weekly (even monthly), we opt to only purchase it when on sale. Another option is to select other fish varieties you might not normally eat, such as catfish and salmon. Both are often on sale and are also very tasty.

Tip # 4 - Ground Beef

Even when it's not on sale, you can usually purchase the larger packages of ground beef, chuck or round, and save money. Avoid purchasing the pre-made hamburger patties unless they are on a really good sale (also available in the frozen food section). And don't waste your money on ground beef that has a fat content of 30% or more... yuck! (Ground chuck, or ground round is usually the best buy. When ground turkey goes on sale it may be even better, though it's often priced higher at most stores.)

Tip # 5 - Ham

The very best time to buy ham is before or after the holidays, they are always on sale! After preparing a large ham for one meal, simply divide the leftovers into family size portions and freeze.

Tip # 6 - Pork

One of the most economical ways to buy pork is to buy the quarter, half or whole pork loins when they go on sale. Have the butcher cut them into chops at the store or do it at home later that day. We like to cut half of the loin into chops and save the other half, or just a third of the loin, for a Sunday pork roast. (They're terrific glazed with Teriyaki sauce!)

Tip # 7 - Poultry

Can I just say again, SALE - SALE - SALE! Chicken breasts alone can cost DOUBLE when not on sale, who's paying these ridiculous prices anyways? Not us! Whole cut-up chickens are another good buy, as well as whole chickens and turkeys around the holidays--they always over-stock and will need to sell off the extra.

Tip # 8 - Seafood

Buy only when on sale!! (I regularly plan our weekly menus around the best sales and save a fortune this way!)

Tip # 9 - Steaks

Same as above, if it's not on sale it doesn't go in my cart.

Tip # 10 - Ask the Butcher

As with pork loins, sometimes you can find a good sale on whole sirloins (uncut steaks) and ask the butcher to trim and cut them for you at the store. This is a free service and if you like to have steak often this will certainly be worth the effort, you'll just need to make a little room in your freezer for the extra steaks. Meat will generally keep well in the freezer for 6 months or more but I prefer to serve them much sooner than that, they just taste so much better when they're fresh!

Tip # 11 - Stir Fry

And likewise, cut your own beef strips out of steaks that are on sale for stir fry, or bite sized chunks for beef stew, this is usually much cheaper than buying the packages of precut beef strips or sirloin tips.

* * *

Readers' Tips...

"When roasting meat, as long as you don't plan on making gravy, your can save the drippings. I add about 1/2 to 1 cup of water to the bottom of my pan, and heat it up on the stove top while scraping up the bits on the bottom with a spoon. Once all of the tasty bits are taken up into the liquid, I let the liquid cool a bit and then strain the drippings into containers (about 1/2 cup per container) and chill in order to remove excess fat before freezing. These drippings can be used in place of soup base cubes or in recipes like risotto." - Tanya L.

"Has anyone ever considered buying meat from a meat locker/slaughter house? (I like "meat locker" better.) Living in the Midwest, we have quite few around here. I did not even know about these until we were put in the financial position to search out other options to cut our food bill down. Well, I found one that sells meat that they buy from the local meat raisers. One meat locker offers a pork package that consists of 75 pounds of pork (chops, ribs, hams, roasts, hocks) for about $149.00. So that comes to about 2 dollars a pound! We ordered a half of beef from a different meat locker not far from us, and received quite a bit of meat. When my husband and I figured it up (pound per dollar) it came to $1.47 a pound, that was including ground chuck, steaks, roasts, short ribs, soup bones. These meat lockers are all FDA approved as are the meat raisers. I'm glad I checked into this. It has helped us a great deal in our financial struggles this year." - Jacquelin in Indiana

Whenever the grocery store over here has great BOGO sales on their meats and produce I always buy a roast (two actually since its BOGO) but since the roasts are always around 15-20 dollars, I cut them in half before I freeze them. Since we are a small family with just two adults and two small children, half a roast is always enough. Then I still have some left over for roast beef sandwiches or mini pot pies for lunch the next day (this way we are not eating roast for 3 days since we don't like wasting, and also since my husband doesn't like eating the same thing in a row. It helps since he doesn't have to eat the roast, I just make him a small lunch sandwich or soup to take to work. this way we can have a nice roast about every two weeks for about 2 months and I only spend 15 dollars on the meat instead of spending 60 for two months worth of meat. I also do the same thing with ground beef and chicken and pork chops. I only use half a pound when it calls for a whole pound (like in soups and boxed dinners) they all go on sale buy one get one free so I stock up and cut everything in half. We keep a small deep freezer for our stock and I vacuum seal everything to minimize freezer burn. (I'll also cut up and prepare "mixed veggie bags" for our meals that I freeze.) Also, I wanted to say that I love your site and I can gladly say my house looks better and we save tons of money with your tips! Thanks! - Ashley

"The best way to get quality hamburger is to find a cheaper cut of beef roast on sale (brisket or chuck) and get the butcher to grind them. (more flavor-less fat) The secret to great steak is to start the cooking process slow and even the cheaper ones become tender. From; a thrifty female butcher." - V.

"I go to the grocery store like everyone else and I see the prices of meat skyrocket to the point where I can’t afford to buy meat and we are meat eaters. I have found that your local butcher has much better prices than that of you local grocery store and the quality is much better. They offer meat packs at great prices. So ditch the grocery store and shop your local meat market. Another tip is to limit your trips to the grocery store. Every time you go you end up buying things that you don’t need. I shop once every six months and I only buy produce and dairy as I need it. When I do go to buy dairy or produce I will have already scanned the store ads for any buy one get one frees and grab those if I am running low. Happy shopping." - Stacy

"I have purchased lots of pasta and then stored it in my freezer. It works great, just remember if you are taking it directly out of the freezer to use immediately your boiling water will cool off fast. I found out you can freeze your pasta after renting a home and having to deal with mice. Mice can't get in the freezer." - Rachel

"Occasionally, Kroger supermarket sells whole boneless tip roasts for $1.99 per pound. They will cut the meat according to your specifications. Since we need to watch our cholesterol, I usually purchase two or three, have all of the fat removed, and grind them into burger. (Where can you purchase ground sirloin for $1.99 per pound?) Sometimes I have them cut into steaks, some to grill and others cubed, and have some cut into roasts. My husband and I are retired and take advantage of the additional 5% discount for senior citizens on Tuesdays, making our meat purchase even less than $1.99 a pound. I then divide the packages according to our particular needs and freeze them. Meat trays and freezer paper can be purchased at Walmart at a reasonable cost." - Charlotte J.

"Aldi's has one pound "chubs" (tubes) of ground turkey meat for less than a dollar. It is slightly higher in fat than the ground turkey you get in the regular grocery store (it's 80/20) but it's the same fat content as the ground chuck and turkey is better for you than beef anyway. Plus in most dishes you can't tell the difference. If you have someone in your family who swears they can tell, do half and half with turkey and beef. You will still save a lot of money and I promise you they won't notice that half the meat isn't beef." - Melissa Smith (Note: Price may be different from the time of this submission.)

"Our local grocery sells bulk packages (4-5 lbs) of ham odds & ends, perfectly good meat, always less than half the price of deli sliced meats, and often on sale. I have an inexpensive meat slicer at home, and slice up the ham for sandwiches, or dice it up for omelets, pizza topping, salads, or whatever. I don't buy it too often or the kids would get tired of it and some ham would probably get wasted, but it's great when on sale." - Stu of CA

"We always buy ground beef or chuck when it's on sale, but it used to sit in the freezer because it's so hard to deal with it once it's frozen. So I started cooking it as soon as I buy it. I buy several pounds at a time, cook it all up in a large pot, drain the fat, and put it in individual containers about 1-1.5 pounds each. Then when I want to make sloppy joes, spaghetti, hamburger helper, chili, etc, I just reach in the freezer and grab a container of pre-cooked ground beef. It thaws in no time at all!" - Jill D.

"I have found convenience and saving in purchasing hamburger in bulk when on sale. In my largest pot, I break up the meat, add water to cover, then boil, breaking the meat some more until all is no longer pink and any fat raises to the top. I then pour through a colander and rinse with hot water. Spoon into recipe sized quart freezer bags, date and freeze. Lean, cooked ground beef is now ready for any recipe, with no time consuming pre-browning!" - Cindy Liskov

"Many folks in our area (NW North Carolina), grow a garden and hunt. So, it's very frugal for us to do that and can the veggies, as well as some of the meat that is hunted. What meat we don't can, we freeze. That saves a load of money too. And I know folks that raise beef cattle & pigs to sell the meat. So, if you can find one that's willing to work with you on the cost of the meat, that saves a lot too." - Leanne Evans

"I would like to add to the previous tip on purchasing hamburger meat in bulk when on sale... To make it even more frugal, save the water you drain off and use it as stock. You can use it in place of water when making mashed potatoes, as a beef (or turkey, you can do this with ground turkey as well) soup base, as the water to boil your pasta in, or anywhere you might want a little extra flavor. If you don't want the fat, let the water sit in the fridge overnight. In the morning you can scrap the fat off the top and dispose, or use in place of other fats for frying." - Kymberlee

"Instead of using hamburger in your hamburger helper, use sausage. It's cheaper and adds a lot more flavor." - Dolores Bryant

"Hello! I recently came across your website and I love it!! I'm a 'pre-college' student and I know that my money will be pretty tight soon, especially with this economy! So I'm learning to be frugal ahead of time. I do have a tip about meat. We usually go to Sam's Club early in the morning (preferably before it opens, which you can do with a membership at our store) and they have LOTS of marked down meat put out then. The earlier the better, you want to beat the next guy! Whether this is done at other stores early in the morning I'm not sure, but Sam's Club definitely does. Hope this helps someone! - Nicole Jenanian

"Did you know that Walmart will even price match steaks? I paid $4.99 lb (Kroger ad) for a rib eye steak that Walmart had for $8.99 lb. Take your local ads with you." - Melinda L.

"One of the unusual things that I have done recently to save money has to do with a method of making turkey stock. I cut the wings off my turkey before placing it in the oven to roast. I then take the wings and the neck and cover it with water and cook these on the stovetop while the turkey is roasting. This permits me to make a delicious turkey stock which I can use for either gravy or soup." - Delta Jackson

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Copyright 2003-2013 © by Michelle Jones, Founder of GrocerySavingTips.com. All rights reserved.

Low Carb Diets

2013-07-27T16:57:00.000-04:00

Save Money on Groceries: Low Carb Diets
by Michelle Jones, GrocerySavingTips.com

After many years of eating a frugal high carb diet, my husband and I adopted a healthier low carb lifestyle. Although we were unable to stay with it completely, I always say some changes for the better are better than none at all. If you've been with me for a while, you know (as a frugal family of six), we have no desire to spend a ton of extra money on groceries, and a low carb diet can certainly be expensive. In order to save money you must continue making an effort to save wherever you can. If you're following a low carb lifestyle or know someone who is, I hope these tips will help you keep the grocery costs down like they helped us when we were trying so hard to cut the carbs out of our diet.

Tip # 1 - Meal Bars and Shakes

One of the most expensive products low carb dieters may find themselves becoming quickly addicted to is low carb meal bars or shakes. Since adopting a low carb lifestyle my husband and I have learned the best way to save on these products is to ration them out (never having more than 1 per day), and to look for the best price. We buy our low carb products (including sugar-free candy and gum) at discount stores like Wal-Mart, Target, K-mart, etc.

Tip # 2 - Salad in a Bag

It's very tempting to buy premade bags of ready-to-eat salads, but with just 5 minutes of preparation a head of fresh lettuce (iceberg, romaine, green leaf or even spinach) will make twice as much salad and cost less than half.

Tip # 3 - In Season

If you're on a budget, keep it simple. Buy the low carb fruits and veggies that are in season and on sale, and likewise for the protein items.

Tip # 4 - Planning

Plan your weekly meals around whichever meats, poultry and seafood items are on sale. If you will just take an hour each week to plan your meals carefully. Use our free printable menu planners (at BetterBudgeting). You can save hundreds off your grocery bill each month!

Tip # 5 - Sugar-Free (Diet) Sodas

Don't be brand loyal. Buy whatever's on sale, period! If you just can't live without your one favorite diet soda, then stock up whenever it goes on sale. If the sale is really good there will likely be a limit of 4 per customer, but nothing says you can't return to the store the next day, for 4 more!

Tip # 6 - Convenience Foods

It's wonderful that restaurants are offering more and more healthy low carb options, kudos to them! Just don't make a habit of buying these expensive conveniences on a daily basis. Make your own wraps and bread free burgers at home and save a bundle of cash instead.

Tip # 7 - Artificial Brand Sweeteners

And much to our delight, the store brand artificial sweetener is just as good as the expensive name brand. And costs about half as much.

Tip # 8 - Fresh Foods

As with any diet, avoid prepackaged foods as much as possible. The more you cook fresh foods at home the more money you'll save, hands down! If you need quick meals on the go prepare a little extra each time you cook and freeze individual portions to use throughout the week.

Tip # 9 - Work with What You Have

Don't follow daily meal plans exactly as written in any book or magazine, continue to work with what you have and buy what's on SALE! If we start buying foods based on special weekly meal plans and not what's on sale, we'll lose more than a few extra pounds; we'll lose a ton of cash!

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Copyright 2003-2013 © by Michelle Jones, Founder of GrocerySavingTips.com. All rights reserved.

Juice Aisle

2013-07-27T16:55:00.002-04:00

Save Money on Groceries: Juice
by Michelle Jones, GrocerySavingTips.com

Tip # 1 - Sale-Sale-Sale

This is one item that our kids can't seem to do without so it really makes my day when their favorite juice goes on sale. And really, with the juice aisles being so huge these days there is always something good on sale.

Tip # 2 - Juice Mixes

Compare the prices of bottled juices with concentrated mixes (the ones you add water to), including the ones in your freezer section. They are not always cheaper.

Tip # 3 - Cut the Sugar

Water down your children's juice cups with 1/3 - 1/2 water. Not only does this save money, but it also saves the amount of grams of sugar going into our children, and on their teeth. By the way - juice can ruin a baby's teeth so never let them go to bed with a bottle of juice, day or night!

Tip # 4 - Real Juice

If you haven't tried apple or orange juice that's not made from concentrate, don't. It's so good you'll have a hard time ever buying the cheaper stuff, made from concentrate, again!

Tip # 5 - New Products

Sometimes companies will introduce a new juice product or flavor and the grocery stores will run a sale when it first comes out. This is a great time to try it out and (if your family likes it), pick up a few more while it's still on sale. Chances are pretty good that once the sale is over the price will be ridiculously high!

Tip # 6 - Coupon Sales

And as always (if you live in a country that offers coupons), when a new product goes on sale there will likely be a coupon in the Sunday paper to go with it--so match 'em up. And preferably, shop at a store that doubles coupons!

Tip #7 - Discount Stores

Okay, so I truly don't mean to sound like a Wal-Mart commercial here but their prices are really hard to beat. This is where I regularly buy most of our juice (and the children's snack juices for school), for quite a bit less than our local grocery stores can offer, even on sale. You can also shop the discount warehouse stores such as Sam's Club and Costco, but so far the lowest prices I've found for the juices we prefer are still at Wal-mart.

Tip #8 - Fresh is Best

If you have children in the house who could drink juice all throughout the day try to limit them to 1-2 cups per day. Fresh fruit is an even healthier option anyways and can often be purchased in bulk. Especially apples and oranges.

Tip #9 - Water

Very few of us drink enough water. So why not chill some in a big pitcher and offer that instead of juice, you'll save a bundle and the entire family will probably be healthier for it too.

Tip #10 - Good to Stock Up

If your favorite juice goes on a really good sale, by all means, stock up. Just continue to use it sparingly or you'll spoil everyone. They might start thinking they can drink a half gallon of Tropicana® every day. Trust me, this can happen when your children become bottomless pit teenagers.

Tip #11 - Just a Spoonful

Children are not the only ones who enjoy fruit juice, it's a refreshing drink for adults too. One way to have that fruity flavor without the high cost (and high sugar) is to add just a small spoonful of frozen juice concentrate to a glass of water. This is also a good substitute for those expensive flavored waters and mixes.

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Readers' Tips...

"Buy a thermos for the kids to take to school. Not only is it better for the environment, but it is so much cheaper to put juice in there than to buy juice boxes." - Laura

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Copyright 2003-2013 © by Michelle Jones, Founder of GrocerySavingTips.com. All rights reserved.

Frozen Food Aisle

2013-07-27T16:51:00.000-04:00

Save Money on Groceries: Frozen Foods
by Michelle Jones, GrocerySavingTips.com

Tip # 1 - Mega Frozen Food Sales

At certain times during the year (including January), stores will have a mega frozen food sale, cutting prices in half or even better. This is a great time to stock up if you have room in your freezer. Always read your weekly store flyers so you'll know when the sales are in progress.

Tip # 2 - Convenience Frozen Foods

There are several types of frozen convenience foods my family likes (chicken tenders, frozen pizza, waffles, ice cream). However, I do not buy these convenience items unless they are on sale. Period.

Tip # 3 - Waffles

Store brand waffles are good, sometimes even better than the name brand. If you have kids you may also know that frozen waffles are a basic food staple through the school year.

Tip # 4 - Ice Cream

When not on sale, ice cream can be as high as $5.00 or more for a half gallon. When on sale, it can be as low as Buy 1/Get 1 Free. This is just a no-brainer. Buying ice cream when it's not on sale is like throwing money away. Unless, of course, you have an intense craving for a particular ice cream and if you can't have it you'll end up spending even more money on something else. ;o)

Tip # 5 - Frozen Veggies

Store brand frozen vegetables are great. Not only are they convenient because you can cook a small portion at a time but frozen vegetables are quick-frozen, which means sometimes they have more nutritional value than even the fresh vegetables in your grocer's produce section.

Tip # 6 - Family Value

Be careful about packaging. Sometimes the larger 'family value' packages of frozen foods (created for our convenience), costs more by volume than the smaller packages.

Tip # 7 - Fresh Foods

Try fresh foods instead of frozen, they will often cost less than the frozen variety when they're in season. Read our Produce Aisle tips for a seasonal list.

Tip # 8 - Pie Crusts

Frozen pie crusts are a great convenience, but you'll save quite a bit by making your own at home. And they'll taste better too! Visit our baked goods section for our favorite pie crust recipe.

Tip # 9 - Biscuits

Premade "ready to bake" frozen biscuits are great. We've had several coupons for the name brand so we have tried them a few times, but the store brand is almost just as good and about half the price. And, yes, you'll save even more money by making your own biscuits at home!

Tip # 10 - Pancakes

I can understand buying frozen biscuits for convenience, and even frozen waffles, as homemade waffles can be a bit of a pain to make--unless you have room on your kitchen counter for a waffle maker and don't have to crawl to the back of the pots and pans to find it. But frozen pancakes? Homemade pancakes are so easy to make and can easily be stored in a zip plastic bag in the freezer for quick and easy breakfasts throughout the week. If this is a convenience food your family has grown accustomed to, you'll save a lot of money by making your own pancakes at home, even with a convenient pancake mix. And they'll taste better too. Check out my favorite homemade pancakes recipe. (at BetterBudgeting)

Tip # 11 - Coupon Matching

For whatever reasons (including supply and demand), the price on many frozen convenience foods continue to rise. Warehouse clubs can be great for stocking up on these type of grocery items, but there are also other ways to get around the rising prices. Thankfully, frozen convenience foods are always going on sale at local grocery stores so that's when I buy them, often with a matching coupon.

Tip # 12 - Cheese

Don't pay extra for frozen veggies with melted cheese, please! Buy your own cheese that melts easily like Kraft's Velveeta or even the store brand is fine. Keep stored in the fridge. Then, whenever you want to add a bit of cheese to your fresh cooked or frozen family value packs of plain veggies just melt a spoonful of cheese in a small serving dish in the microwave, or in a small pot on the stove, over medium heat.

Tip # 13 - Family Packs

Even if you're cooking for one, you can save money by purchasing the large family packs of frozen veggies and use as needed. Veggies can keep in the freezer for six to twelve months, though I think they really taste better if you use them up one to three.

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Readers' Tips...

"I have noticed that the biggest sales come once about every 4 or 5 months, or a couple of weeks before a holiday or a major event, never the week OF... so don't wait 'til then. Remember that most sale weeks start either Thursdays or Fridays. For instance, the sale week before Superbowl Sunday, there was a major sale on the family size box of TGIF appetizers (2 for $10; regularly $9.99 ea.) and Tyson chicken strips, nuggets etc. ($5.99 ea. compare to $9.99 ea.). Last year Pepsi went on sale for .69 cents (the lowest ever) about 2 weeks before 4th of July. Again a couple of weeks before Thanksgiving the supermarkets had another major sale. My family eats a lot of meat, so we bought a large upright freezer. This makes it easier to stock up on all those frozen foods that go on major sales. Don't shop when your hungry... you'll buy on impulse (after breakfast works best for me). Don't shop with others that buy on impulse (husband, kids). Try to stock up on anything possible in order to avoid going to the store more during the week. Think before you buy... do you really need that item, especially if it's not on sale. Try the store brand. I found certain Krasdale and America's Choice items taste exactly the same or extremely close to a brand name. Don't buy the store brand if you find yourself using more of it, it'll run out faster and you end up spending the same at the end because you have to buy more." - Judd D.

"When freezing meat in bulk, sometimes you don’t want to freeze it pre-cooked, so you can be ready for whatever recipe you may crave when it’s time to cook. To give lightning-quick thawing, divide raw ground meat into 1/2-pound portions and wrap each of those tightly in plastic after flattening the meat to about 3/4” thickness. Then put those flat plastic-wrapped portions into a 2-gallon Ziploc bag. The small, very thin, very flat packets can conform to whatever freezer space you have, and they stack well. When ready to cook, pull out the number of 1/2-pound portions your recipe needs, and thaw them very quickly in the microwave. Ditto for chicken breasts; wrap one individual breast or one meal’s worth of tenders in one packet as flat as you can make it. Then put all the packets into a 2-gallon Ziploc to freeze and pull out whatever amount you need. Also, fresh onions and garlic will spoil if you’re too rushed to do the cutting and caramelizing or roasting when making the meal. It’s easy to chop or slice the onion when you first get home, then freeze the raw cut onion loose in a Ziploc ready to pour out when you’re cooking. Or you can caramelize it, then divide it into individual-recipe-sized amounts, freeze those amounts individually wrapped in flat plastic packets all stored in a large Ziploc bag. They thaw in a flash if they’re made very flat. Likewise, garlic can be chopped and frozen raw. Or it can first be roasted, then divided into small plastic-wrapped packets of several cloves each. When you’re ready to cook, just whip the number of roasted garlic packets you need out of the Ziploc and thaw quickly." - Barbara Samuelson

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Deli Foods

2013-07-27T16:48:00.004-04:00

Save Money on Groceries: Deli Foods
by Michelle Jones, GrocerySavingTips.com

Tip # 1 - What's On Sale

If you must buy items from the deli. Only buy what's on sale.

Tip # 2 - Think Thin

Ask the deli attendant to slice meats and cheeses really thin, this will make them go a lot further!

Tip # 3 - Grab the Bread and Run

In most grocery stores the deli section is close to the bakery which usually offers fresh baked loaves of French or Italian bread for a very reasonable price. The bread is definitely a good buy but sometimes I wonder if they're just teasing us with a low cost item so we'll come on over and spend a fortune on the more expensive items. Right?! If fancy cold cuts and prepared side dishes are not in your budget just grab the bread and run.

Tip # 4 - Prepared Picnic Foods

I'm not sure why it was exactly, but sometime after one of our very stressful job transfers to a new state we got completely hooked on buying prepared deviled eggs from the deli at one of our new local grocery stores. Paying about 10 times what it costs when I make them myself at home. Why, I just can't tell you. Maybe nutritionally our bodies were just craving deviled eggs. We'll probably never know for sure. But after about a month of this craziness I finally regained my strength to say "NO" and start making them at home again. Not only are they much cheaper, they taste much better too! View my recipe for Deviled Eggs... (at BetterBudgeting)

Tip # 5 - Use Your Oven

If you or your family eats sandwiches for lunch often, instead of buying a pound of sliced ham or turkey from the deli, consider baking a half ham or turkey breast in the oven. Cooking directions are often on the labels. Then, slice them up and divide into 1/2-1 pound portions and store in freezer bags. Just keep one in the fridge for this week and freeze the rest until you need them!

Tip # 6 - Freeze the Cheese

I also save a lot of money on sliced cheeses by purchasing the prepackaged varieties when they go on sale. You can freeze cheese for up to several months, however, I usually only buy enough for what we'll use up in two weeks. Thankfully, one brand of cheese or another is almost always on sale!
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Copyright 2003-2013 © by Michelle Jones, Founder of GrocerySavingTips.com. All rights reserved.

Coupon Savings

2013-07-27T16:47:00.001-04:00

Save Money on Groceries: Coupons
by Michelle Jones, GrocerySavingTips.com

As a frugal mom of 4 with over 20 years of experience shopping on a budget, I have tested just about every level of grocery coupon use that a person can do; from all, to some, to none, and back again. Coupon use will vary depending on people's circumstances. I have known many people who refuse to use coupons because they feel they just don't have time. As a working mom myself, who barely has time to shop for groceries, let alone clip grocery coupons each week, I truly do understand.

Yet, not using a grocery coupon on an item that you're going to purchase anyways is just like throwing money away. Yes, it does take a little time each week to clip the coupons and take them to the store, but just like earning money takes time, so does saving money!

Anyone who wants to save more money on groceries can make good use of coupons, it's just a matter of doing it. Try to think of them as cash and you might be a little more motivated to use them on a regular basis. When you purchase an item that you regularly buy and could have used a coupon for (but didn't), it really is just like throwing money away. Do this over and over again and we're talking hundreds of dollars each year. As soon as you start looking at coupons as cash it should be a lot easier to make more time for them.

You may think you don’t have time to use grocery coupons, but if you have time to watch one extra TV show per week or read one newspaper… you have time to save money with coupons. If you’re extremely pressed for time just grab your Sunday paper and clip out only the coupons you can use this week. If you want to clip out all the coupons you can easily clip them out while watching your favorite TV show on Sunday night, even if you just do it during the commercials. Try it, you’ll see! It really doesn't take as long as you may think!

Free Membership and Ebook

Get many more great tips in my free ebook 101 Coupon Tips and look for our newest coupon and grocery tips appearing every month in our free money saving newsletter, Living a Better Life®. Sign up at www.BetterBudgeting.com/subscribe

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Tip # 1 - Be careful when shopping at grocery stores that require a membership card to get items for their special 'SALE' price, which is just about most of them these days. Especially when new cashiers are in training, they just simply forget to run it through. I've never had a problem before now but twice in the last 6 weeks I've had to ask the cashier to refigure my bill because the card didn't go through and they charged me full price for everything! (This was especially bad since 75% or more of everything in my cart is usually on sale, not just one or two items.) And yes, it is inconvenient to ask for the refunds and wait for the total to be figured, but both trips resulted in a membership card credit of about $17.00 each! On the second trip, I had even asked the clerk to check the receipt because I saw an item wring up at full price, she checked it and said, "yes it's there." But when I got home (always check your receipt before leaving the store, which I usually do!), I put the groceries away and was looking at the receipt and saw I had been charged full price for everything. Back to the store I went (don't worry, it's very close to my house!). I tried to be really nice and so did the store manager but I could tell she was not thrilled at having to refigure the bill and give me a cash credit. I'll do whatever I can to make sure this doesn't happen again, and will never leave this particular grocery store without checking my receipt first, but good grief! Super Wal-mart is looking better and better to me all the time, and they not only take coupons, they price match too!!!

(Editor's Update: It happened again--the cashier did not scan my grocery store "saving card!" This time, the grand total of my refund was over $28!!! And no, I'm not giving up on this store, they have the best prices in town... everyone makes mistakes. These are particularly frustrating mistakes, but I can handle it, I have four children and this is nothing!)

Tip # 2 - This may be a surprise to you (it certainly was to me), but grocery clerks do not always know their own store's coupon guidelines! Recently, I had some special store coupons I wanted to use with matching manufacturer's coupons. Since I was fairly new to this store I stopped by the customer service desk first to make sure it was okay to do this. With no employees attending the desk, a cashier happened to be walking by and asked if I needed assistance. I asked her about the coupons and she said "No, you can only use one coupon per item!" Later, as another cashier was ringing up my groceries I mentioned it to her and told her I thought it was okay to use a store coupon with a manufacturer's coupon, and she said "Yes, it is!" And, I would say in MOST cases it's going to be okay... a store coupon is not the same as a manufacturer's coupon, it's really just their own sale price! However, if you want to make sure your store will honor both coupons at the same time before you try it, just be sure you speak directly to the manager!

Tip # 3 - If you have time (or even if you don't) you can also create a price log in a small notebook to record the best price of your favorite products at each store, as well as the coupons you receive throughout the year. This will help you learn the sale trends and know what the best grocery bargains really are. Here's our FREE Printable Price Log to help you get started!

Tip # 4 - When items are on a buy-2 for one-price sale, such as 2 boxes of cereal for $4.00, it is usually not necessary to buy two to get the sale price. If you use the item regularly and will need to buy more before they go on sale again (possibly in just a few weeks) go ahead and buy as many as you need. And save even more by matching the sale with a coupon! But if you only need one box of cereal, or whatever the item is, then just buy one. The money you save by not purchasing that second item (just because it’s on sale) may be needed for something else that you might need more, such as milk, bread, produce, chicken, fish or meat.

Tip # 5 - When matching sales with coupons, the same rule applies; sometimes it’s better to just buy one sale item instead of the two or more the store is hoping you’ll pick up. And if you have two coupons it’s okay to use both on a buy-2 for one-price sale, because you are purchasing two items! It might even be worth purchasing an extra Sunday newspaper to get a duplicate set of coupons; if a certain week has a lot of great coupons for products that you use often!

Tip # 6 - Double coupon offers are great but in our local area we currently have only one store that offers double coupons--and only up to 65 cents--and, they are also one of the more expensive grocery stores. The double coupons are nice, but then when you buy grocery items that generally do not have coupons (such as milk, bread, meat, produce, etc...) you will more than pay for that double coupon savings. So, if your "double coupon" store is similar to ours (i.e. on the high-end) use the coupons on their sale items when you have time and purchase everything else at a lower priced store of your choice.

Tip # 7 - One of the best ways to save more money with grocery coupons is to match them with items that are already on sale. Look through your weekly grocery store sale flyers (they are often first published in the Wednesday newspaper and are also available at the front of the store for free) to find matching items that you'd like to purchase. If you don't have time to look through the weekly sale flyers just clip your coupons from the Sunday paper and match as you go!

Tip # 8 - Grocery stores generally do not list everything they have on sale in their weekly sale flyers (though I’m hoping some day they will start!), so, while matching your grocery coupons to the store flyers is a huge help, there will also be some additional sales you may want to match with. You have two options here, simply bring your coupon organizer with you to the store each week, OR, clip the coupons from the Sunday paper and take all of them (that you care to use) to the store. Your coupons will most often match with sale items during the grocery store’s current sale for that week!

Tip # 9 - Another way to maximize your savings while matching coupons with weekly sales is to shop at more than one grocery store. Since the stores do not run the same sales each week, you can often double your savings just by shopping at two stores instead of one. Now I'm not suggesting that you drive all the way across town to save a few more dollars, especially with the high cost of gas, but if the stores are close to each other or you can combine your grocery shopping errands with other trips, it may not cost you any extra in gas. And, if you've been using my Coupon Savings tips you already know that we're saving a lot more than just a few dollars! ;o)

Tip # 10 - If you're unable to shop at more than one grocery store each week to maximize your coupon savings (or if the stores in your area are too far apart, considering the extra cost of gas) just be sure to shop at a store that offers price matching. Let's say you have some great coupons for several items that are only on sale at the 'other store.' By asking for a price match, you'll not only get the best sale prices for both stores (without having to make a second trip), but you'll also be able to match those sale prices with your coupons!

Tip # 11 - When the end of the month is drawing near I always like to take a quick look through my coupons for any that might be expiring soon. Manufacturers set many of their coupons to expire on either the first or last day of the month, so keep an eye out for both dates and take any that you need to the store this week; before they expire!

Tip # 12 - Many grocery items remain on sale for much longer than a week, giving you plenty of time to match them with coupons or even do a little stocking up without coupons. So check the sale dates (they are usually located right on the shelf sale tag) to decide whether you need to purchase the items this week, or if they can wait.

Tip # 13 - Waiting to purchase these items that are on extended sale will also help you avoid over-stockpiling and keep your weekly grocery budget in check. And, by postponing the purchase you may find that you don’t even need the items that are on sale!

Tip # 14 - Groceries are not the only items that have coupons! Carefully look through those department store inserts in your Sunday newspapers and you’re likely to find some great offers, especially during the holiday season. This past week we received 2 coupons for a $10 ToysRus gift card (with a $75 purchase), a $10 JCPenney men’s wear coupon (with a $50 purchase), a $5 coupon for Bed Bath & Beyond (with a $15 purchase), a $10 coupon for Belk (with a $10 purchase), and a 50% off coupon for any one regular priced item at Michael’s craft store!

Tip # 15 - Holiday sales are great for using up coupons and picking up extra items for your local food bank or a neighbor who's in need. If you don't have a local food bank you can contact your area churches, Rescue Mission, Salvation Army or the American Red Cross, any of these non-profit organizations can give you more information on how you can help and what grocery items are needed the most.

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Readers' Tips...

"All you Shoppers out there! I know you have all gotten used to the time consuming project of cutting out those coupons, however if you can get a neighbor kid, grandchild or one of your own to help you cut those out, it's for sure worthwhile! I gave our neighbor kids and some that I used to baby-sit for those jobs, and they did so good. When we were all done I would pass out cookies heated in the microwave and fresh cold milk for a thank you they didn't forget. Also, does anybody ever do rebates? I used to do very well with those, and REALLY SAVE! Or save the labels for a send in for a free item, is good too. I know it's time consuming, but you sure do get a big payback with free food coupons." Christine from Missouri

"I've just come across your Web site and think it's Wonderful! So many hints, suggestions, etc... it's Great. When I go grocery shopping, I write my list on the back of one of those 'return envelopes' that we're always getting in the mail, then stick the coupons needed for those items inside the envelope. This way I have both the list and coupons right at my fingertips. This is especially helpful when you have to buy multiples of an item, or more than one item from a brand, and can't remember... just check the coupon. I always mark "C" beside the grocery item to remind me that I have a coupon for it. Hope this helps others, I know I find it very helpful. Thanks a lot for the wonderful web-site, please keep up the great work." - Barb K.

(Editor's note: I also recycle envelopes this way, Barb, see my tip in the Grocery Planners section of our newsletter, and I love your idea about putting a "C" next to items that you have a coupon for! :o)

"I live in the Midwest, and there is a mega store similar to Wal-Mart that offers discounts and coupons for in-store use for new and transferred prescriptions and refills. I save on average $15 a month using these coupons. They also happen to have very competitive grocery and general merchandise prices." - Sarah Dewey

"Here is a tip that may be on your website, but I didn't see it. Often we get coupons we can't use, but they allow us to get things for free, or we get coupons for stuff that we would get for free but have already stockpiled. What we do in that instance is get the item anyway and put them in a box for the local food bank. When we get a box full, we drop them off at church. If you don't go to church, just contact the church closest to you and ask them if they take donations for the food bank. It's a way to give back while still being budget conscience. Hope you can use this. God bless." - Andrew M.

"I keep all my coupons in a 3 ring binder. I have photo pages in it and each coupon type is in its own pouch--such as baby, cereal, deodorant, cold meds, dog food, cat food, makeup, light bulbs, batteries, dairy, shampoo. I have 30 different categories, but it makes it quick to find the coupon I need. I ALWAYS have my binder with me. WHY?? You never know when you may see something on an unadvertised sale, or in a mark down cart. Once, while in the next town after a storm I passed the small (only) grocery store which was putting up a sign advertising a 60% off sale due to electrical failure. I turned around, and bought tons of stuff for near free between the sale price and the coupons--items such as fish sticks, ice cream, yogurt, milk, butter. I added it up and saved around $100 for items I would have bought anyway." - April of Missouri

"I have recently found that some stores (where I live we have Smith's or Kroger), offer downloadable coupons to their stores "saving's card." You go onto their website and you can choose the coupons that you use and they automatically load to your shopper's card. When you are checking out, and scan your card, the savings show up on your receipt." - Rachel

Here are two tips on saving with rebates at Walgreens...

"Purchase rebate items from stores such as Walgreens and send in the rebate. The best return method is to choose a Walgreens card that can only be used for Walgreens items. They will give you a 10% higher rebate for choosing to re-visit their store. Then use your rebate savings on the next rebate item you would like to purchase. The end result is you continue to roll over x amount of rebate dollars without having to dip so far into your checking account. It works like phone time it just keeps rolling over." - W. Richards

"I shop at Walgreens when things are on sale and try to take advantage of their Easy Saver rebates each month. But often there would only be one item I cared for and it didn't seem worth the trouble…until now! They've gone online with their rebates and it's so very easy. I go to their site, type in the information, and in a few days I usually get my money deposited on my Walgreens gift card. And because I do that rather than ask for a paper check, I get a bonus 10%! No stamps, no envelopes, no circling, etc. So even a small rebate under $1 is worth the 60 seconds it takes to enter the rebate." - Theresa S.

"I am an avid coupon clipper. I have saved so much money doing this! But, it became very frustrating digging through my little coupon organizer to find what I needed. Then, I got smart! I now carry a binder. Inside are photo organizer pockets. I labeled each pocket with things like cheese, crackers, canned fruit, etc. You can also label the pockets in the order you normally shop. I have been stopped by so many people that think it is the greatest system. One other tip is that I make a shopping list and don't deviate unless there is just an awesome sale I can't pass up. I don't get sucked into picking things up on a whim. Happy couponing!" - Jennifer of Puyallup, WA

"Hi Michelle! I am loving your site and just wanted to share a tip of mine when shopping @ Walmart and price matching. When making my grocery list and planning my menu, I wait until Wednesday. I have gotten all my sales flyers in the papers. I sit down with them and a notebook and plan my menu for the week by what's on sale at the different stores. After my list is made, I go through the ads again and beside each item i have on my list, I jot down where it is on sale and the price. When I get to the register @ Walmart, I put all my non-price matching up first and then a divider up for my price matching. EVERY cashier @ my local Walmart knows me as the "Price Matching Queen." By separating my price matching from my regular price purchases, it cuts down on the confusion and possibility of missing something. They appreciate it more b/c it's all in one place and it actually takes less time. On average more than 1/2 of my groceries are price matched. The people waiting behind me usually don't like me, but a quick apology and wit about having to save money usually smoothes things over. I have a family of 7 and one income, so it has become NECESSARY to price match. Sorry for rambling, just wanted to share my experience! Thanks!" - Stacy Horner

"My daughter-in-law takes the ads with her to Walmart for price matching, she has a notebook that she lists the stores and items so that the clerk can find the item quickly if she needs to verify. - Rusty

"Many people put their coupons in groups, but I have found that by putting them in alphabetical order is the best way to go. So I can easily find any item in my coupon holder by simply looking for the brand name, such as Crest, One dog food, Pepto, etc. I have tried other ways, but they do not work for me. The key is organization! Also, look through your coupons a couple times a month to make sure that none have expired. Happy couponing!" - Pamela Dean

"Hi Michelle, I also live on a budget even though it is just my husband and myself. But we are both on disability so you know we have to be thrifty. I find that if you walk the isles of your local drug stores with your coupons, you can save a bundle. I found soups, dish soaps, and especially spices on sale. So scan those drugstores every week." Cindy Cromer

"I have a tip! This has to do with coupons, in general. When you go in with coupons, still LOOK at the regular price of the off brands. A lot of times, I go in with 1 dollar off the name brand stuffing (for instance). When I get in the store though, I can find it 3 dollars cheaper if I buy the other brand. Don't devote yourself to your coupons. Some just aren't all they are cracked up to be!" Cassandra Spade

"Hope this tips help save you time when cutting out coupons. I use a 6-inch metal ruler to tear my coupons out. I just place it on the edge of the coupon and hold it down and tear the paper along the ruler. I can cut out my coupons in about half the time. I store the ruler in my coupon organizer so it doesn't get lost." - Susan of Winter Haven, Fl.

"It can be very frustrating to get to the check out and realize the store's coupon policy has changed. There you are with a fistful of great savings and the cashier tells you the limit is now 1 doubled coupon per customer. Save yourself time and frustration by getting the store's coupon policy in writing and keeping it in your coupon binder, box or envelope. Each month check at the service desk to make sure the policy has not changed." - Lisa

"Try to make saving fun or even a game. I enjoy contests with co-workers and family and friends. Be it to loose weight or to sell more at work. It works. And for finding good deals, sales and coupons. Ask and they might tell you." - Lucia Orozco

"My favorite resource for grocery coupons is our local grocery store, Kroger. Each Sunday they sell two newspapers (regular and early editions) bound together for $3.00. Both contain the same printed coupon inserts." - Michelle :o)

"If your grocery store has a web page and sends out email blasts, SIGN UP! You can get some exclusive coupons in some of their email blasts! - Anita W.

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Copyright 2003-2013 © by Michelle Jones, Founder of GrocerySavingTips.com. All rights reserved.

Cookie and Snack Aisle

2013-07-27T16:43:00.005-04:00

Save Money on Groceries: Cookies and Snacks
by Michelle Jones, GrocerySavingTips.com

Tip # 1 - Bakery Cookies

As I've mentioned in our Bakery Tips section, be careful about purchasing cookies in the bakery department... 12 cookies for $2.99, or more? You've got to be kidding! We all know better! If you like cookies that much, please visit our Cookie Club site for tons of great cookie recipes - and make your own freshly baked cookies at home! You can also freeze most cookie dough and bake a fresh dozen any time you want, for a fraction of the cost. And not only will home baked cookies be healthier (and cheaper) for you and your family, they'll taste better too!

Tip # 2 - Cookie Displays

Food displays are no longer contained in just one aisle, or in the bakery department, oh no! They are now set up on display all over the store! The good news is, the ones that are set up on special display throughout the store are usually the ones on sale. And if they are not on sale it's because they were on sale and the employees just haven't had time to move them back to the cookie aisle yet. So if you have to buy store bought cookies, just please buy them on sale!!!

Tip # 3 - Favorite Cookies

Don't buy your favorite type of cookie; buy a type that you like, but don't love - they're guaranteed to last a lot longer. (I learned this tip from my grandmother!)

Tip # 4 - Chips

Small bags of potato chips, Fritos, Cheetoes, Doritos, etc... make handy school snacks for children, and for road trips, but buying the convenient cases of them may not be such a great idea. Companies know mom needs a break in preparing snacks so they can get away with charging extra, for packaging just a small handful of chips! So, unless the cases (or large variety bags) are on a great sale, I simply buy large bags of my children's favorite chips (whatever's on sale each week) and divide them up into zip bags myself! ( I also buy the "snack size" zip bags in bulk for dividing up Cheetoes and pretzels, since they take up less room than potato chips.)

Tip # 5 - Healthy Snacks

Fresh fruit or cut up veggies make great snacks and cost a lot less then packaged foods. Buy apples and oranges by the bag but check them thoroughly to make sure each piece is in good shape. Try serving them to your children just a few times a week to get them used to a healthier snack!

Tip # 6 - Baby Size Sale

When buying carrots and celery for snacks it's best to buy them uncut and prepare them at home yourself, the packaged varieties will just about always cost much more! However, my kids love those baby carrots so I do buy them occasionally... but only when they go on sale!

Tip # 7 - Salad Dressings

Cut up broccoli and cauliflower also make great snacks too, especially with a little ranch dressing for dipping. (By the way, if you prefer name brand salad dressings ALWAYS use a coupon!) This would be good for afternoon or summer snacks when children are out of school, so you won't have to prepare dipping containers that travel! ;o)

Tip # 8 - Homemade Breakfast Bars

Another snack my children love is Nutri-grain fruit bars, but in some stores they cost a dollar more than the store brands. Needless to say, I've been buying the store brands ever since they came out on the market (unless I have a double coupon or they're on a great sale!) You can also make your own fruit bars at home, here's a simple recipe I've been using since the early 90s, when our first child was just a toddler.

* * * BONUS RECIPE * * *

Michelle's Fruit Bars
by Michelle Jones

Ingredients:

1 c. butter or margarine
1/2 c. light brown sugar
1/2 c. sugar
2 c. flour
2 c. oatmeal
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1/4 tsp. nutmeg
1 and 1/2 c. spreadable fruit or jelly
2 T. wheat germ

Directions:

Mix all ingredients except fruit and wheat germ together until a dough is formed. Spray a 10x13 pan with cooking spray, line with foil, then spray foil. Divide dough in half and press one half into bottom of pan evenly, spread fruit or jelly almost to the edges. Using a little flour on your hands, take remaining dough and place flattened pieces over the jelly, creating the top layer of dough as evenly as possible. (Dough will spread a little while baking, but try to press together to minimize cracks.) Sprinkle the wheat germ on top and spray with a little butter or cooking spray. Bake at 350 degrees for 35 minutes. Remove pan from oven and cool on wire rack before slicing into bars. Store in the fridge for up to 1 week. ( I've never tried freezing them because they don't last very long in our house, but I'm sure they would freeze well too. )

Enjoy! :o)

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Readers' Tips...

"I save all the crumbs from in the bottom of cookie packages. They are great in yogurts, on top of ice cream and even in puddings. My son loves his yogurt with the crumbs." - C. Schmid

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Copyright 2003-2013 © by Michelle Jones, Founder of GrocerySavingTips.com. All rights reserved.

Cleaning Aisle

2013-07-27T16:16:00.001-04:00

Save Money on Groceries: Cleaning Supplies
by Michelle Jones, GrocerySavingTips.com

The reason why I haven't shared many tips on homemade cleaning supplies over the years is because I usually prefer to buy them. With four kids and a publishing business to run, I need my ready made cleaners, PLEASE! I do not have a housekeeper, though I surely could use one, I hate the smell of bleach and vinegar, or rather I should say it literally makes me ill so I have to be very careful of the cleaning supplies I do use. So, I have a few products that I like, especially the lemon scent Clorax disposable wipes and I always try to get them for the best price. I also use coupons, get my cleaning products on sale, and use refills whenever possible.

Yet, on occasion and just for you, I do enjoy testing recipes for homemade cleaners. I have discovered that they are usually easy to make and work quite nicely. If you have homemade recipes for cleaning products that you use regularly in your home and would like to share them here with our readers please contact me and I will add them to this page.

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Readers' Tips...

"Place Comet cleanser or any discount brand as long as it is the kind you use for cleaning tubs and sinks in the bottom of your garbage can, then place garbage bags in it. This simple step will save time cleaning the garbage can; it will absorb any liquids and it keeps the can smelling great. And it will save you money because you won't have to buy bug spray to keep the bugs away." - Dawn B.

"Beware of Wal-mart pricing! Half a gallon of white vinegar was 10 cents higher than a gallon of the same brand. We have found the same to be true on Dawn dish liquid, by figuring the cost per ounce, we came out better by buying several small bottles. Same on toilet tissue. Check and recheck those prices. Also, try adding white vinegar to your laundry's fabric softener dispenser instead of that higher priced softener. Clothes are just as soft, no vinegar smell and I swear my whites have become whiter!" - Betty

"I do laundry for just a few pennies a load...

Recipe for Laundry Detergent:

1 grated bar of ivory (some recipes call for Fels Naptha laundry soap but ivory is both easier to grate and cheaper and works just as well, I have found)
1/2 cup of borax
1/2 cup of washing soda (NOT baking soda!)

Take the grated ivory and boil until melted in 2 qt of water. Pour into a large container (I used the giant animal cracker container I had) that will hold up to 2 gallons when done. Add borax, washing soda and fill the rest of the way with warm tap water, mix. Stir every so often until cool... it will thicken as it cools into a gel-like consistency and sometimes will have a watery layer if you didn't stir enough but I haven't ever found this to be a problem. Use 1/2 cup for small loads or 1 c for large. 1/2 cup to 1 gal. of water and a Tbs. of bleach gets yucky kid stains out of whites. I keep a bucket ready and toss them in to soak. I also toss in my white dinner napkins as we use them (don't use paper ones, use the white "restaurant" napkins since they can be bleached).

Softener:

1/2 c white vinegar

I put this in my Downey ball so it gets into the rinse cycle and I don't have to wait around. Makes clothes soft and fluffy and they don't smell like vinegar, just fresh! Makes cloth diapers soft too and you don't have the same issues you would with absorbency as you would if you used store softener. I was making a softener with vinegar, baking soda and water but it was messy and plain vinegar works. I also have been able to cure my 17-month-old's eczema by making my own products, she had chronic problems and then within one week of using these it was gone!!! :)" - Maria Gross

"I have found a product that saves me money, shelf space, is good for the environment and does not have a strong chemical smell. It is called CitraSolv and I can only find it at a local grocery store in the organic section. A bottle of it is about $15. Sounds high, but you dilute it. One cap in a $.99 spray bottle of water cleans counters, glass, furniture, walls, carpet stains, etc. Two to Three caps in a mop bucket cleans floors and is safe on wood and tile. I still buy the disinfectant cleaners for the bath and for after I cut meat in the kitchen, but for everything else, it is all I use. It is made from oranges so you have the faint scent that smells like someone just sliced an orange. A bottle can last me 9 months so I am spending $1.66 per month to clean my kitchen and living area. I don't have bottles to throw out or to make space for in the cabinet. No coupons though." - Missy

"I use baking soda mixed with Dr. Bronner's peppermint liquid soap instead of commercial "Soft Scrub". This is safe to use around children, and doesn't leave the chemical smell. Mix baking soda with the soap to a frosting-like consistency and use as you would Soft Scrub or Comet. I also keep a spray bottle filled with vinegar to disinfect countertops. This is also safe around children. Annie Berthold-Bond has a great book called "Better Basics for the Home: Simple Solutions for Less Toxic Living" that is full of easy recipes for homemade household and personal care products. I purchased this book when my daughter was a baby, because she had respiratory problems and I wanted to reduce the chemicals used in my home. It turned out to have economic benefits as well. Vinegar, baking soda and borax - along with my favorite peppermint soap - can clean almost anything in the house." - Kate

"I clean houses for a living. I use undiluted 3% Hydrogen Peroxide in spray bottle for wiping counters, washing window, mirrors, stuck on gunk. It's odorless and It is a lot cheaper than other cleaners." - Karel

"Foaming hand soap refills cost as much per ounce as the regular full strength liquid soap refills--but you’re paying mostly for water! Try this instead: in a standard 8-ounce measuring cup put in 6 ounces (3/4 cup) water, then add the last 2 ounces (1/4 cup) of any liquid hand soap. Stir gently with a spoon or small spatula until blended well without a lot of bubbles, and use as your foaming refill. Works perfectly!" - Janna K. of Virginia Beach, VA

"I too, tend to prefer the smell of some name brand cleaners, and I know ammonia can be harsh, but I like to use it when I can. It is much less expensive. I also use diluted white vinegar to clean my hard wood floors. I use very little vinegar to a gallon of water. I even put this in my swiffer sprayer bottle. Lastly, to save on wash, I make my own laundry detergent. I have three kids and a husband...I do still use store brands for the tough dirt, but for everyday clothing I use my own. It is simple to make a large amount and you can use a scented fabric softener if you like more of a scent!" - Jean B.

"I keep a 5 gal. pail right outside the bathroom door and immediately pretreat the stains on everyone's clothes as they take them off. I use a store bought pretreater on the stains. If that hasn't taken the stain out completely, I pour a little peroxide on the stain. On laundry day I add warm water and about half a bottle of peroxide and let it sit until I'm ready to do laundry. I've noticed that perspiration stains came out of my husbands white T- shirts and brightened them. I've used peroxide on colored clothes and it didn't fade the colors. If you have toddlers, keep the bucket up out of their reach to prevent accidental drowning." - submitted by MsJan (Editor's note: Always a good idea to do a test spot first. :o)

"Never buy laundry detergent again. I use Dawn Original Dishwashing Detergent. Just a squirt will wash a large load of clothing. One can add a squeeze of Suave Shampoo if they want a little fragrance. Speaking of Suave Shampoo, it's great for a bubble bath. The bubbles are long-lasting!" - submitted by Lynne

"I have thoroughly enjoyed reading your Money Saving Tips and am thankful for your insight. Thank you for creating your website and sharing them with others! Here are my tips for saving money on cleaning products: I clean almost everything with Vinegar and Baking Soda. I bought two 32 oz spray bottles at a hardware store and filled them with vinegar: one for the kitchen and one for the bathroom. I don't like the smell of Vinegar either, so I bought a small bottle of Lavender oil and put 2-3 drops into my spray bottle of Vinegar. Yes, the scented oil can be a little expensive ($3-10 for .5 oz) but if you use it sparingly it will last four to five years! I only put the oil in the vinegar I use to clean the bathroom. I don't mind the smell so much in the kitchen, but if you can always buy a bottle of lemon oil ($3.70 at puritan.com) to scent your kitchen vinegar. I use Aura Cacia scented oils. If you like to see bubbles when you spray the vinegar, just add a few drops of dish detergent. If you have granite counter tops you can make your own granite cleaner: 5% alcohol, 95% water and a few drops of dish liquid. For stubborn stains on countertops I use a little baking soda, then spray with vinegar and scrub. I have found that Krud Kutter is more efficient for cutting soap scum, but everything else get cleaned with Vinegar and baking soda. (tile floors: hot water, 1/2 C. Vinegar, a few drops of dish liquid) (toilets: full strength vinegar) I also clean our mirrors and windows with vinegar, a squeegee and a lintless cloth (old t-shirt). For smelly loads of laundry I add a 1/4 c. of baking soda. I also use baking soda and water to make a paste for stubborn stains and odors. The other great thing about using vinegar and baking soda is that they don't harm the environment and they're safe to use around children." - God Bless, Angela B.

"A tip I learned from my Mom many years ago was to always start the (hand wash) dishes with the glassware first, then the less dirty stuff, and finish off with the dirtiest. That way the greasy things are last and do not make the water unusable for glasses, plates and such. Having to refill a sink with more water and detergent means you use twice as much with each clean-up. It seems obvious, but many people start with the biggest job of casserole dishes, roasting pans, pots, etc., and waste the hot water and soap." - Nancy Kelly, Montreal, Canada

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Copyright 2003-2013 © by Michelle Jones, Founder of GrocerySavingTips.com. All rights reserved.

Cereal Aisle

2013-07-27T15:34:00.000-04:00

Save Money on Groceries: Cereal and Breakfast Items
by Michelle Jones, GrocerySavingTips.com

Tip # 1 - Sales

Cereal can be a great bargain food when purchased on sale and/or with a coupon, but if it's not on sale don't buy it.

Tip # 2 - Bigger is Always Better

It's often cheaper to buy the smaller boxes of cereal, whether on sale and/or with a coupon or not. The cereal companies know we like to buy in bulk so the bigger boxes can sometimes be priced at a higher amount per ounce.

Tip # 3 - Bulk Breakfasts

Bacon, sausage and other breakfast meats can be purchased in bulk when on sale and stored in the freezer!

Tip # 4 - Bacon, Bacon, Bacon

Try cutting bacon strips in half (before cooking) so everyone will eat less - while feeling like they're eating more.

Tip # 5 - Grits

Grits are a wonderful economical breakfast food and can be found in the cereal section next to the oatmeal. At least throughout the South. ;o)

Tip # 6 - Instant Savings

Don't waste your money on those small 'instant' packages of oatmeal, grits, or cream of wheat. Just make the real stuff yourself. Not only will you save money, but the real stuff tastes soooooo much better!

Tip # 7 - Cheap Breakfast Recipe

Eggs are also a very inexpensive breakfast food...

* * * BONUS RECIPE * * *

Omelets
by Michelle Jones

Ingredients:

2 -3 eggs (per serving)
Water
1 thin pat of butter (about a teaspoon or less - and you can use margarine but it melts down to mostly water, which doesn't work as well)

Any of the following Omelet add-ins: (precooked) diced green, or red peppers, onions, broccoli, ham, shredded cheese, even crumbled bacon or sausage... you can add just about anything!

Directions:

Heat an omelet pan, or small frying pan, with small pat of butter over medium heat. Wisk eggs with about 1 T. water and pour into heated pan. As the eggs begin to cook, holding pan with a hot pad if needed, gently move cooked edges from the side of the pan with a wooden spoon or plastic spatula - while tilting pan in a circular motion to let the uncooked eggs from the middle spill over to the edges so they will cook too. Continue this process until the eggs are setting up well all over. Add desired ingredients and fold half of the egg mixture over (lifting gently from the side with a spatula) to create the half moon shaped omelet. Continue cooking for a just a minute so added ingredients will warm up. Serve immediately.

* When camping outdoors, you can place all of the omelet ingredients (including beaten eggs) into a plastic zip bag and cook in a pot of hot water over the campfire. When eggs are thoroughly cooked simply remove the bag from the pot (with tongs and hot pads), and slide the finished omelet onto a plate! It's one of our family favorites!!

Enjoy! :o)

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Tip # 8 - BOGO Cereal Sales

Many grocery stores offer special sales on cereal (either 2 for $4.00, 2 for $5.00, or my all time favorite, "Buy 1/Get 1 Free"). These sales will often change each week so if you or your children like boxed cereals be on the lookout for when your favorite brands go on sale and buy a little extra.

Note: "Buy 1/Get 1 Free" sales often have a limit of 2 free items, but you can always visit the store more than once if necessary.

Tip # 9 - BOGO Coupons

And don't forget you can use two coupons with each of these special sales, unless the coupon requires you to purchase two boxes. In this case, you can use two coupons and buy four boxes... for the "Buy 1/Get 1 Free sale you'll get two boxes for free and the other two at a great price!

Tip # 10 - In the Bag

Bagged cereals are also a great buy, especially when compared to purchasing boxed cereals at regular price. If you're unsure just compare the ounces on each package to see what I mean. And if you get them at a discount store like we do, you'll save even more!

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Readers' Tips...

"I buy a 9 pound box of old fashioned Quaker oats for $6.49 at Costco. It comes in two 4 pound bags. There are 102, 1/2 cup servings. This comes out to about .06 cents per serving. To make it I simply put 1/2 cup dry oatmeal and 1 cup water in a large bowl and cook on high in the microwave for 2 minutes. Then I add in fruit, honey, nuts, cinnamon... whatever I want for flavor. My family of four eats oatmeal several times a week and it takes months to use up the 9 pound box. This is truly a savings. We also use it in breads, muffins, cookies, fruit crumble, etc." Lenora R.

"I no longer buy boxed cereal at the grocery store. Instead, I buy it at Dollar General or Dollar Tree. It is still named brand, but in a slightly smaller box that is marked anywhere from $1 to $1.75. THEN, I used my coupons (yes, they accept them) The result?? I get our name brand cereal for free to 75 cents a box." - April

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Copyright 2003-2013 © by Michelle Jones, Founder of GrocerySavingTips.com. All rights reserved.

Military Family Coupon Project - Current Base List

2013-07-26T23:40:00.000-04:00

Our List is Current - Please Link to Us/Do Not Copy
by Michelle Jones

We appreciate everyone's help and are excited to see this volunteer service to support our military spreading all over the web. First there was ocp.org, then there was (and still is) GrocerySavingTips.com... and now there are dozens, even hundreds, of sites around the country managing their own coupon projects.

It's a wonderful thing!

If you would like to work with us, our coupon project is always current and updated every month. We are open to all U.S. bases overseas and work with coordinators directly on base. We ask that our members rotate coupons between different bases each month instead of "adopting" a base because when they get overwhelmed with coupons, their mailroom will stop accepting the coupons.

So please check with us each month for updates, before mailing your expired grocery coupons. If you're also working with another coupon project, you are welcome to share the link to our base address page so our bases can be included too.

When we first started out in 2003 we personally contacted the only Military Coupon Project that we could find, OCP. We then directed our readers to them for several years, UNTIL we discovered their base list was NOT being kept current.

Finally, in 2007 we began working on our own Military Family Coupon Project and have continued since then to keep our addresses and information up to date every month... and it's working.

Our members are fantastic!!! :o)

Military Family Coupon Project - What Coupons Can They Use

2013-07-26T23:37:00.000-04:00

What Type of Coupons Can They Use?

by Michelle Jones

Military families stationed overseas can use coupons up to 6 MONTHS after their expiration date. You can send them as soon as they expire, or even before they expire!

The sooner you ship them the more time there will be for mailing, sorting, distributing, and finally, money saved for our military families being able to use the coupons on base.

In general, our military families can can only use regular manufacturer's coupons such as from newspaper inserts, coupon mailings, store displays and coupons you may receive directly from the manufacturer. BOGO coupons are also acceptable. They cannot use "In Store Only" coupons.

We all love printable coupons from the Internet and in some cases, military families overseas are able to use them too. However, if they are able to use them, they can also print them on their own so it's probably best not to send these types of coupons. (Unless you happen to have a handful that are expired, those would be great!)

Our military families have asked us to pass along this request...

1. If you can, PLEASE separate the coupons into TWO CATEGORIES, one for FOOD and one for NON-FOOD. It is not always necessary, but helpful.

2. In addition, organizing coupons by the expiration month is also helpful.

Note: Food, baby, and pet coupons are the most requested coupons and usually needed more than non-food. (This is likely due to the abundance of non-food coupons available to everyone in general.)

Food:	Non-Food:
Dairy, Bread, Food, Canned Goods, Beverages, Water, Candy, Gum, Meat & Frozen Foods	Baby/Child Care, Cleaners, Toiletries, Make Up, Paper Products, Vitamins, Medicines & Pet Food

If you are separating your coupons, place them in separate plastic bags marked "Food" or "Non-Food." And/or divide the coupons by month of expiration. Remember, separating the coupons is NOT required, just a little extra help for the coordinators.

While some families are able to move their pets with them when they go overseas, others find foster homes for them while they are away. Expired pet coupons are definitely welcome though, so be sure to include them.

You can also send as many coupons as you have collected, even dozens of duplicates. However, a good variety is great too!

Our coupon program coordinators overseas will distribute the coupons to multiple families.

Just be sure to CLIP them first so they will be easier for the base to sort, and easier for you to mail.

You can mail as many or as few as you want. All coupons are appreciated!

Military Family Coupon Project - Flat Rate Mailing Envelopes

2013-07-26T23:17:00.000-04:00

Guidelines for Using Flat Rate Mailing Envelopes

by Michelle Jones

The Post Office will USUALLY accept coupon-packed flat rate envelopes. However, we're getting some reports from members that the PO has started requesting the envelope actually be FLAT for mailing. Flat rate should mean a flat cost, no matter what the weight, as long as it fits; not that the envelope must be FLAT!

Important Update: (August 2014) A few days ago, one of our volunteers was told by her local post office that "THINGS HAVE CHANGED". It appears that some (but not all) POs are now requesting coupons be sent in Priority Mail 14.5 x 11.5 flexible paper envelopes instead of the Flat Rate 9 x 12 cardboard envelopes like we have always used. The reason is they want those to remain flat enough to fit through a thin mail slot. And, they may also request a form be filled out as well (PS Form 2976 dated July 2013), which is available at the PO. - Thank you T.M. for sending us this update!!!

It was suggested that they use the flat rate boxes instead, which can hold many more coupons, and yes they cost more too.

I believe the problem can be solved by making sure the Flat Rate Mailing Envelopes can be sealed without extra tape. That's what we do, and they always go through just fine.

Yes, sometimes this means we have to send two envelopes instead of one, but it's a small price to pay to help our military families overseas.

The instructions on the Flat Rate Mailing Envelopes read:

"Any amount of material may be enclosed, as long as the envelope is not modified, and the contents are entirely confined within the envelope with the adhesive provided as the means of closure."

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