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Sale tags still attached to clothes hanging in the closet, fruit sprouting mold in the refrigerator, and big boxes of cereal taking up space on the counter. Perhaps you, too, have fallen to the temptation of buying a sale item just because it's inexpensive. Or, you've purchased large quantity items at a membership club, thinking it's cheaper to do so.
When you find never-used items, moldy food, and products that don't fit into storage spaces, it's time to re-think your buying habits. Taking advantage of sales is the right thing to do - - when you've got the storage space, have planned ahead, and are sure it's really a bargain.
Take the never-worn clothing. You'll never get your money's worth, regardless the price, if the item stays in the closet. Did it not coordinate with any of your other clothing? Was it a trendy style that went out of favor within a season? Before buying a piece of clothing, consider its potential to be worn with existing clothes and accessories. Make sure it fits well. Think about how you'll feel wearing it this time next year.
During the summer, fresh fruits and vegetables are in abundance. It's easy to buy more than you can use, just because the produce is so appealing and less costly. However, if you don't use it up before it grows mold, gets slimy, and you have to discard it, then you've lost the money you saved in buying it. Be more realistic in estimating the amount of fresh produce you really can use. Plan your snacks and menus before shopping. Consider your family's likes and dislikes. Avoid wasting all that nutritious food.
Membership clubs sell big quantities of practically anything you could want - - food products, shampoo, laundry detergent, diapers, you-name-it. If you're absolutely certain that the price you pay per item, pound, or ounce is a savings, then great. If you've got the storage space for the extra items, and if the price is really a bargain and you have the money, then you're being a smart shopper.
It pays to compare prices no matter where you shop. Stores that sell each item for a set amount, such as one dollar, have become popular. For some items, this is a real savings. For others, it's more than you might pay at other discount stores or supermarkets, especially if the item is on sale elsewhere. Check for quality and make certain that items fit. Some of these stores do not have dressing rooms. Check the policy on returning items, it may not be allowed. Use unit pricing in comparing prices.
Being a smart shopper not only means getting the best buy for your money. It also means not wasting the money you spend.
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