I talk a lot about groceries on this blog. Did you know that the second highest bill (mortgage being first) of one’s monthly budget is groceries? This is why so many search for ways to cut on groceries.
Here are two things I do throughout the week to help make sure I don’t forget what I need and don’t overbuy when I go to the store, which essentially, saves in grocery costs. Organization (meal planning/grocery list) is KEY during grocery trips.
#1 WRITE DOWN THINGS YOU NEED THROUGHOUT THE WEEK
For me, I’ve always had a white dry erase board on the side of my fridge that has a marker attached so when I run out of something or start running low, I can add it to the ongoing list. This doesn’t just include groceries either…often times I’ll write down items I need to get while I’m out (i.e. container bin for B’s clothes, tape, kitchen rug, etc).
When I sit down to do my grocery list on the weekend, I look at the whiteboard and add those items to my menu planning sheet. Not only does it really bother me when I forget something I needed (I’m really forgetful), but it often times, puts me back in the grocery store mid-week, which we all know what that means…buying things we probably could have gone without, therefore increasing our grocery expenses (sorry longest sentence ever)!
#2 CLEAN OUT YOUR REFRIGERATOR BEFORE YOU GROCERY SHOP
I love cleaning out my fridge. It gets messy REALLY fast and many times I don’t even know what’s in there. I’m embarrassed to say I probably waste way too much food. Plus, I just like things clean and organized.
Before I go to the store, I’ll do a quick clean up of my fridge:
-Throwing away bad food/leftovers
-Organizing a little better to see it all
-Wiping down shelves if needed
-Organizing the hydrators and cleaning them out (these get the worst for me)
I’ve usually already made my list, so now I can see what items I might have already had or need to add to my list. Also it helps to see what we need to eat fast 🙂 You can also do this with your pantry. Mine is pretty organized, but it’s nice to go through and look over it & do an inventory.
Don’t you just love cleaning out your fridge or pantry by “eating through it” before the next week? Do you have any tips for staying organized through the week when it comes to grocery shopping?
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