Not So Extreme Couponing - Clipping Coupons

Coffee & coupons

part of my Sunday morning routine

I've shared with you some of my "not so extreme" coupon shopping trips.  But I thought I would take some time to explain the how-to behind the trips.  It starts of course with clipping coupons.  If you're a working home keeper, you may be interested in saving money using coupons.  But on the other hand, you may think you don't have time to add one more thing to your busy schedule.  Let me assure you, couponing doesn't have to become another full-time job!  My style of couponing fits very easily within my home and work schedule without disrupting either.

Mike Holmes

an essential part of couponing :)

On Sundays while I'm in the kitchen making breakfast, Dave and the boys head out to buy copies of the Sunday paper.  Dave buys up to three copies of the Sunday paper each week.  Why three?  Because Harris Teeter will only double or triple three like coupons.  Buying only three of an item means my stockpile grows at a slower rate.  But typically, three is enough to get us through to the next sales cycle. 

Once we've finished eating breakfast, I gather up my coupon inserts, a pair of scissors and my cup of coffee and head to my chair in the family room.  I turn on the TV and start up my DVR recording of HGTV's Holmes on Homes (with Mike Holmes) or Holmes Inspection.  It's just a must for me!  I go through each insert individually (why rush!) and cut out only the relevant coupons.  For me, relevant coupons are non-food items (cleaning, health & beauty, paper products, pet food) and select food items (baking supplies, nuts, frozen/canned fruit, juices, almond milk).  I don't bother clipping the processed food coupons at all since we eat mostly from scratch meals made with whole ingredients.

With my coupons clipped, I pull out my coupon holder, which is an accordian receipt file small enough to fit in my purse.  I go through each file category and pull out any expired coupons and add in the newly clipped coupons.  I found that it is best to file my coupons right away.  Otherwise, I end up with piles of clipped coupons lying around.

So, that's my very simple, very easy approach to clipping coupons!  Next time I will discuss finding deals and preparing for my shopping trips.

Do you clip coupons?  If so, what is your clipping style?   

Mary Ellen