It is easy to get caught up in the drug store games. It is fun and exciting to get things for free or practically free. Some people play the game and max out on all the freebies and good offers. Others only take advantage when there are deals on their current shopping list. I am trying to take a moderate approach by loading up on items we will use, and skipping the items that we will not.
Even with taking a moderate approach, I find myself with a stockpile of items. What can I say? I find it very hard to pass on free toothpaste or shampoo, even if I already have several in the cupboard. But that doesn't mean that it will go to waste. Here are some ideas to use up the stockpile of drug store deals.
1. Sell it.
In her article, Making CVS Work for You, Crystal shares that she sells some of her surplus items in their bi-annual garage sale.
Seem like an odd thing to sell at a garage sale? It has been awhile since I've had a garage sale. (Those of you who know where I live are probably rolling on the floor at the thought of me having a garage sale here.) The last time I did have a garage sale I threw in some opened perfume I'd received as a gift and didn't care for and some other odds and end health and beauty products. Those things went like hot potatoes. Imagine how quick something brand new in the box would go.
2. Donate it.
This idea came from my sister in law. She works for an agency that helps at risk families. She donated many of her CVS items to the agency. Even if you don't have a connection like that, items can be donated to shelters, food banks or other agencies that help those in need.
3. Take a shopping break.
Amy shared last week how she took used her stockpile over the summer. This let her spend less time shopping, and more time enjoying her family and her summer. That is a great way to use that stockpile!
4. Create a care package.
Recently I created a care package for a loved one who will soon be living in the dorms. I filled a box with lots of health and beauty items from my stockpile. I also added in some Amish bread, jam, and herbal tea. I think it will be appreciated by this student who pays for all her living expenses, and it cost me practically nothing.
So play the game. Get the free stuff, and create a stockpile. But don't cross the line into hoarding. Use that stockpile up, either for yourself or to help someone else who would appreciate it.