Week 3: Organizing Your Coupons
The hardest part of couponing is organization. Finding an organizing method that fits you need isn't always that easy. Its more like a trial and error thing to me, pick a method, tweak it to work for you, if it doesn't try another. From what I can see a lot of couponers use a variety of methods together.
Method #1: Coupon Binder
The most popular organizing method is the coupon binder. If your a heavy duty couponer this is the system for you. Basically it's a 3 ring binder with baseball card inserts for you to place the coupons. Now I've never used this method but I'm personally thinking about switching but I can lead you to a fabulous person that does.
Your Coupon Buddy uses the binder method and has a great post on how to make one for yourself here. But what makes her an even better resource she sells them also. You can get a ready-made coupon binder with $100 or more of the most recent coupon inserts and money saving tips here.
Method #2: Envelopes
This is the easiest method to since you can use what you have on hand. You will need envelopes, index cards, pen/marker, and some sort of storage tub(I use a baby wipe tub). For more detailed information on using the envelope method visit Money Saving Mom.
Method #3: Coupon Wallet
There are many types of coupon wallets out there but is best to use one that comes with tabs and is made of fabric or plastic. I've had a bottle leak in the diaper bag and wet my paper coupon wallet and of course it soaked some of my coupons inside.
You can find a coupon wallet at Walmart, Target, Ebay, The Coupon Clippers,and many other stores.
Method #4: Coupon Box
The coupon box is just a bigger version of the evelope method. If you still have an over flow of coupons using method #2 then this is your next step. You can order a coupon box from Refund Cents for $22.90 shipping incuded, pre-categorized here.
Method #5: Insert File System
Some people who don't like to clip and sort their coupons keep them intact and file them according to date (SS 1/4, RP 1/18, P&G 2/8, etc.). This method can save you lots of time but when its time to plan your trip you have to go back and clip the coupons you need.
For more detailed information on the insert method visit Bargin Briana. She has the advantages and disadvantages listed here.
Sorting Your Coupons
Once you have figured out your organizing method its time to find a sorting system. Now again try to find the best system that works for you. Here are a couple of choices:
1. Alphabetically. this is when you organize your coupons by product category or name in alphabetical order. For example: Can Goods, Hair Color, Meats, Snacks.
2.Expiration Date. This is when you separate your coupons buy the date of expiration or month they will expire.
3.Insert Date. This is when you label your inserts with the date(SS 1/4, RP 1/18, P&G 2/8, etc.) they were in the Sunday Paper.
Remember to pick a system that works for you this way it won't take as long to file and sort you coupons. Once you have found you method its time to start shopping.
1 comment:
I still use method #3, and it works great for me!
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