5 Tips to Save Money on Everyday Personal Items

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Everyday personal items are one of the categories in our family budget where, through a combination of sales, coupons and retail programs, we can see our savings go up.

“Knowing what stores have the best values on personal-care products can help you save big,” said Lisa Lee Freeman, editor-in-chief of ShopSmart. “So we sent our secret shoppers out to find out who has the best deals on items like shampoo, soap and razors.”

The April 2012 issue of ShopSmart magazine features a how-to-save guide on everyday personal-care items, including shampoos and razors, and highlights the most rewarding store-loyalty programs.

Here are some tips I found useful to save money:

● Personal items can be found at their lowest prices at Walmart. Even if you don’t use coupons, this would be the place to save money.

● If you prefer using high-end brands, going online is your best bet. Just be aware of the shipping charges. Places like Amazon and Drugstore.com require a purchase of $25 or more to receive free shipping.

● I’m an advocate of stocking up on products at rock-bottom prices. ShopSmart recommends this strategy as well. Ad circulars and websites like SundaySaver.com can help you plan ahead.

● Learn the coupon policy of your favorite supermarkets. Some of them double coupon values or have special events where you can stretch your savings even more.

● Don’t be shy when it comes to store brands. Consumer Reports tests gave high marks to Walmart’s Equate body-lotion recently.

Also, don’t forget if your favorite supermarket or pharmacy has a loyalty or customer reward program. These are often free to use and their benefits can help you save a little extra money.

Yoly Mason writes about frugality and savings tips and tricks in her popular Spanish written blog Cuponeando.net.

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