If you’ve been couponing and stockpiling for a while, there’s a good chance that you have a nice big stockpile. In fact, your coupon stockpile may even be too big!
There may be several reasons that a coupon stockpile may be too big. For instance, some people may be moving to a new home with less space. Others may just find that they need to clear out part of their coupon stockpile in their existing home to make more room. Whatever the reason, when a coupon stockpile is too big, it’s time to get rid of some of it.
So, what do you do with your coupon stockpile when it gets too big? Here are a few options…
Donate It to Organizations
This is my favorite option for downsizing a coupon stockpile. There’s always someone in need who could use items from your coupon stockpile! Food banks can use your extra food items, homeless and battered women’s shelters can use personal care items, and animal shelters can always use pet food and supplies. Also, I’m a pretty big believer in Karma. As the Law of Three states, whatever you do – good or bad – will come back to you threefold.
Adopt a Family in Need
You could also “adopt” a family in need if you need to downsize your coupon stockpile. Chances are, you already know a family that’s struggling to make ends meet. Even just a handful of items from your stockpile can go a long way. Not having to spend money on essential items like toiletries can free up some cash for necessities like utility bills and mortgage payments. If you don’t personally know of a family in need, you could also ask your local church or community center.
Make Gift Baskets
Here’s a nifty idea if your coupon stockpile contains a lot of nice personal care items. Think high end creams, body washes, facial scrubs, and makeup. Grab some nice baskets and create homemade gift baskets for holidays and birthdays. A nice little spa gift basket would make a great little treat for some lucky young lady!
Barter
Trading, or bartering, is another option if you need to downsize your coupon stockpile. If you know other couponers that stockpile, this should be pretty simple. Just trade items that you don’t need for items that you do need. It’s a win-win for everyone! You might also be able to list your excess coupon stockpile items on local online classified ads for trade.
Repurpose
Not everything in your stockpile has to be used for what it’s marketed for. You may be able to repurpose some of the items in your stockpile and use them for something else. For instance, did you know that you can make fabric softener from hair conditioner? Or liquid hand soap, body wash, or homemade laundry detergent from bar soap? Toilet paper is great for regular tissues when you have a cold, and shampoo can clean everything from your hands to your car to your chrome. So, get creative!
Live on Your Stockpile
If your coupon stockpile is so big that you need to start looking for ways to get rid of it, it’s probably time to start living off of it. After all, what’s the point of having a massive stockpile if you don’t use it? Stop jumping on every coupon deal that you find each week, and only go after the freebies or super cheapies. Start building your stockpile again only when it has dwindled down.
