When it comes to cutting expenses, most people turn to big-ticket items like their mortgage, car insurance, and transportation costs. While it’s always a good idea to save as much as you can on these items, it’s also worth assessing how much you spend on everyday items like dish soap, laundry detergent, and other household essentials.
These small but regular purchases can add up to a surprisingly large expense, so savings in this area can make a big impact on your finances. To get you started on this worthy mission, here are several ways you can get a good deal on household essentials:
1. Shop Around
Life is busy, which is why many people don’t take the time to shop around for great deal on household essentials. However, shopping in more than one store for the things you need can result in huge savings overall.
For example, the best place to buy cookware sets may not be where you also buy your groceries. Check weekly sales fliers and plan your shopping trip accordingly to save the most money possible.
2. Use Coupons and Rebates
Taking advantage of coupons and rebates is a great way to keep more money in your wallet. Coupons reduce the amount you need to pay at the register, while rebates give you money back for purchasing specific items.
You don’t need to go the extreme couponing route to experience great savings. You can use both physical and digital coupons – check your Sunday paper and the store’s website for these. You can also sign up for the store’s loyalty program if they have one.
Rebates may require more effort to receive the savings, but they’re worth the extra work as they generally deliver big refunds. Every rebate includes instructions, so follow them closely to receive either cash back or a credit to use in-store.
3. Time Purchases for the Best Deals
Things like shampoo, hairspray, and toothpaste all go on sale at some point. The key to saving on these items is to time your purchases to take advantage of the savings. Make it a point to only buy these items if they are on sale. When they go on sale, stock up on enough to carry you through until they go on sale again. Once you get into the routine of this way of shopping, you’ll always get the things you need at a discounted price.
4. Forgo the Name Brands
When you buy brand-name products, you’re usually paying more for the name and pretty packaging. Many stores have their own brands, and you’ll likely save big if you switch to these rather than spending extra on brand names.
5. Buy Fewer Products
Who needs specialized products when you can buy all-purpose and achieve the same result? This is especially true when it comes to household cleaners. There’s no reason to buy a separate cleaner for the kitchen countertops, bathroom countertops, and sinks when an all-purpose cleaner will tackle them all with great results.
6. Take Advantage of Free Stuff
Chances are that someone somewhere has what you need and is willing to part with it for nothing. Join local Buy, Sell, Trade, and Giveaway groups on sites like Facebook. All you need to do is post what you’re looking for and wait for the offers to come to you. You can also browse posts from others and offer some things you no longer need from your own household.
The cost of household essentials can seem minimal, but in the long run, these items do add up. Finding ways to save on them can help you achieve your bigger financial goals.
Also read: Obligatory Things to Know Before Shopping for Clothes
