One of the easiest ways to waste money and space in your home is by making mistakes when it comes to your grocery shopping habits. Whether you’re buying things you don’t need, forgetting things you do, buying too much or not getting enough, it always seems like there’s some sort of slip-up waiting for you in the grocery store. Here at Closet & Storage Concepts of Boston, Massachusetts, we believe that organization and preparation are key when it comes to being prepared for your next trip to the supermarket. Here are our tips to help you build a better grocery list, and save money and space in the process!
Take Stock of What You Have
One slip up that most people face when they go to the store unprepared, is buying things that they don’t need because they already have them. Don’t waste money buying more pasta when you’ve forgotten about the angel hair you’ve still got sitting on the top shelf. You’ll be sure to only get what you need if you’re discerning in the inventory you take before you leave the house.
Keep an Eye on Expiration Dates
On the opposite end of the spectrum, it’s easy to think that you’ve got enough milk to last the week and leave it off the list, only to find that the gallon you had in the fridge has gone bad. Make sure that you’re aware of the expiration dates on your foods, and be conscious of what will need to be tossed if it isn’t finished. If you know that your bread will go bad soon, make some extra sandwiches so that you don’t have to waste food by throwing it away. Try to buy non-perishable items when you can as well, which will last longer and save you money in the long run.
Sort By Department
When planning your list, develop a plan of attack that organizes your needs by grocery department. This means that you’ll know exactly what you need and where you have to go in order to find it, without getting caught up in the tempting displays at the front of the store. This will also save you time, as you can head directly for the aisles that have what you want, rather than wandering around trying to remember where you can find mixed nuts. Pick up the dry goods first and wait till the last minute to grab refrigerated items so that they stay as cool as possible.
Let Your List Lead
People always say to not go grocery shopping on an empty stomach, and we agree. When you’re stomach is rumbling you’ll be more likely to be seduced by those treats you don’t need, which will be hard on your wallet as well as your waistline. Stick to your list with determination and you’ll get out of the store with exactly what you want and need and without going over your budget.
For more organizational goodness, visit Closet & Storage Concepts of Massachusetts today! We are proud to offer custom pantry storage to help you store all of your groceries efficiently from dry goods to wine storage. Serving clients in the greater Boston-metro area.
Photo copyright gpointstudio.