Secret Codes for Mobile Coupons
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5+ Ways to Make $$ at a Resale Event
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Lately, I've been clearing out a lot of clutter before the holidays. I donate items to Goodwill but I also sell items at my local resale event in a few months.
If you have tons of baby clothes, toys and more that you no longer need, you have to keep reading! Many PTA’s around the country sponsor “resale” events, where for a fee, you can rent a table and sell your items.
Tip 1: Gather everything you want to sell
Here are some items that sell well at resale events:
- baby and children’s clothing
- brand new items
- toys (new or barely used)
- diapers
- Little Tikes toys
- Outdoor play equipment
- Car seats
- Strollers
- Books
Items that don’t sell very well (or at all):
- stained or torn clothing
- toys with missing or broken parts
- stuffed animals
- fast food toys
Tip 2: Price competitively
You’ll want to price your items so you make a profit and still offer a great deal. Typically, here is how I price items:
- Baby clothing: $1 each
- Children’s clothing: $1-2 each, coats: $5 each, nice outfits $5 each
- Brand new items: Depending on what it is, I take about 50% off what I paid
- Toys: I charge more for new, in package toys. Used toys I charge less.
- Diapers: $4 per bag
- Little Tikes: Because Little Tikes is so expensive brand new, people are willing to pay a little more. So if your item was originally $150, try to get at least $50 for it.
- Outdoor play equipment: Another popular category, price about 30-50% less than what you paid.
- Car seats: You probably won’t get close to what you paid originally. Also, the car seat should be in perfect condition, never in an accident, etc.
- Strollers: Depending on condition, 30-50% off what you paid.
- Books: Typically, $1-2 per book
- school packs. If you have extra, brand new school supplies, divide them up into Ziplocs and sell for $1 a bag.
Tip 3: Clean everything and price everything
It’s important to have great presentation when it comes to selling items. For example, I was all clothing and put into Ziploc bags, with the size and price on the outside of the bag. Toys are cleaned (baby wipes are great for this). Having great presentation at your table is essential for making sales.
Tip 4: Stuff to bring to the sale
- tape
- black marker
- pens
- change ($20-$30 in ones, $10 in quarters, some 5’s and 10’s)
- snacks and drinks
- a helper, to help sell and run the table, if you need to step out for a moment
- A smile and a helpful attitude. Typically people who are coming to the sale are looking for specific items
- Plastic bags to bag up their purchases
- Box to keep money in
Tip 5: Have fun!
Resale events are great for not only getting rid of clutter and making money, but meeting new people! Have fun with your sale!
10 Best Lifetime Guarantees
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Stock up for winter with Patagonia and be reassured with their Ironclad Guarantee. You can return for a replacement, repair or refund.
Lodge pans come with a lifetime guarantee. So get cooking and be reassured they stand by their products.
Northface is known for quality and protecting against chilly temps. It's nice to know they guarantee if you aren't happy.
Abby Loves Purina Beyond Snacks #chewyinfluence
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We adopted Abby a little over a year ago as a 7 month old puppy. She will be 2 on Halloween! She is such a fun, energetic little pup. At only 32 lbs. she is a ball of energy and always getting into trouble! Abby is a mix of German Shepherd and Rhodesian Ridgeback.
She loves car rides and going to the park. She is always on the go with me.
One of her fave to go snacks is Beyond White Meat Chicken Cutlets. It has all-natural white meat chicken in every batch. For a natural, grain-free dog snack that offers both great taste and quality ingredients you can trust.
Instagram- @Beyondpetfood
Instagram- @Beyondpetfood
Here is Abby romping at the park, all kinds of energy!
Abby says thank you to Chewy.com for sending the bag of treats. We will definitely be stocking up again on these in the future!
I received these goodies free of charge from Chewy.com in an exchange for my honest review.
10+ Food Storage Tips
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Stocking up on food but not sure how long food is good for, or where to store it? Here is what you need to know!
Canned Goods:
Commercially canned foods are good for two to five years from the date they were packed. High acid food like tomato sauce will not keep as long as a can of beans, for example. Canned protein like tuna, chicken, corned beef and even bacon have a shelf life of five years, or longer.
Canned foods lose vitamins as time goes by so you will want to rotate your food supply so you are using and replacing items before their “use by” dates.
And canning is another great way to stock up on your own homegrown produce or great deals from your local store. Check out our canning guide.
Canned Goods:
Commercially canned foods are good for two to five years from the date they were packed. High acid food like tomato sauce will not keep as long as a can of beans, for example. Canned protein like tuna, chicken, corned beef and even bacon have a shelf life of five years, or longer.
Canned foods lose vitamins as time goes by so you will want to rotate your food supply so you are using and replacing items before their “use by” dates.
And canning is another great way to stock up on your own homegrown produce or great deals from your local store. Check out our canning guide.
Containers like Rubbermaid or OXO are also a good bet for tightly sealing in food.
- Rice. White rice should be used within two years after opening, brown within six months as it has more protein. You can extend the shelf life of white rice to 10 years or longer when properly sealed and stored.
- Flour. You can count on all-purpose flour lasting well for three to six months in its sealed bag, up to one year in the refrigerator and longer if stored in a freezer.
- Sugar. Sugar is one of the few products that lasts indefinitely. The only problem it presents for cooks is that it can harden. For this reason, plan on sugar having a useful shelf life of about two years.
- Soft grains — Barley, oats and rye are soft grains that can last as long as eight years.
- Hard grains — Corn, wheat and flax are in this category. They can last between 10 and 12 years.
- Beans — Hermetically sealed, they can last between eight and 10 years before they need to be tossed. As they age, they lose oils and may need to be ground.
- Pasta — It can last as long as 10 years. As with most other foods, cooler temperatures will help it last even longer.
I also recommend investing in a vacuum sealer. Amazon has them as low as $78 and watch for sales to bring the price down even more. One of the best ways to store anything, especially dry items in bulk, is in glass canning jars that have been vacuum sealed.
So where do you store all this stuff?
It may require a little creativity on your part to find space for your new food reserves. Just keep in mind that most of us have space currently occupied by stuff we never use and really don’t need.
So where do you store all this stuff?
It may require a little creativity on your part to find space for your new food reserves. Just keep in mind that most of us have space currently occupied by stuff we never use and really don’t need.
- Under the bed. Shallow plastic containers are perfect for holding canned goods and sealed dry goods.
- Basement. I have shelves set up, just for my stored food. I mark everything with a marker, when I bought it, etc. so I know when I need to rotate the stockpile.
- Closets. Another place to organize your food. Just be careful cans don't fall on your head!
- Under stairs. Simple shelves can organize this space and make it ideal for food storage.
- Be sure to stock up on OXO and Rubbermaid containers.
$1200 For a Penny? Make Money Collecting Pennies
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Recently I got into collecting wheat pennies. The wheat penny is a classic iconic early 21st century American coin with a face value of 1 cent that was minted from 1909 to 1956. I had read that a few rare ones could be as valuable as $750+ so I decided it was worth the trouble to start looking around.
As you can see above, these are my newer pennies. I am saving the shiny, newer ones for a project, a penny top table.
The dates listed below are worth more than just a few cents, unlike most of the ones referenced above.
Values are for problem-free coins in a grade of good or better, and uncirculated for those dated 1959 and later.
- 1909 — $3 and up
- 1909 VDB — $10 and up
- 1909-S — $85 and up
- 1909-S VDB — $750 and up
- 1910-S – $15
- 1911-D – $5
- 1911-S – $40
- 1912 – $1
- 1912-D – $6
- 1912-S – $20
- 1913-D – $3
- 1913-S – $12
- 1914-D – $175
- 1914-S – $20
- 1915 – $1.50
- 1915-D – $2
- 1915-S – $20
- 1916-D – $1
- 1916-S – $1.50
- 1921-S – $1
- 1922-D – $15
- 1922 plain – $650
- 1923-S – $2
- 1924-D – $30
- 1924-S – $1
- 1926-S – $5
- 1931-D – $4
- 1931-S – $100
- 1932 – $1.50
- 1932-D – $1
- 1933 – $1
- 1933-D – $2
- 1943-D boldly doubled mintmark – $10
- 1944 D/S – $125
- 1946-S/D – $35
- 1955 doubled die, obverse — $1,200
- 1970-S small date – $30
- 1972 doubled die – $300
- 1983 doubled die – $250
- 1984 doubled die – $200
- 1992-D close “AM” – $500
- 1995 doubled die – $25
- 1999 wide “AM” – $500
Here is another handy chart:
Here's a book to check out for more info and basics.
How I Cut Cable and Saved $200 a Month
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We were Directv customers for at least 15 years and had frequently thought about cancelling cable. We are big fans of Travel Channel, HGTV, Food Network and more and of course, we needed to have a DVR.
After noticing that we weren't recording as many shows and hardly ever watching cable, we decided to cut the cord. And the bill inching towards $150+ a month did not help!
We had been subscribers to Amazon Prime, Netflix and Hulu, so making the transition wasn't that hard. The more difficult part was finding the right DVR and antennae to get the local channels. I love watching Wendy Williams and Dr. Phil, so local channels were a must.
Here is how we did it!
We bought the TIVO Bolt for $160 on sale at Best Buy. Amazon also has it right now for $190, but with some price-matching the price can come down.
If recording shows and fast-forwarding through commercials is important to you, you will want to have a DVR.
Here are the features:
- Record 4 shows at once and up to 75 hours of HD programming.(1) Replaces your cable box and works with your existing subscription (requires CableCARD); or plugs into any HD antenna to record over-the-air channels easily (over -the-air reception varies by location and is impacted by multiple factors).
- TiVo service subscription is required. Options include a monthly service plan at $14.99/mo and a 1-year commitment,(4) and an annual service plan at $149.99/year.(5)
- Your favorite streaming apps are fully integrated: No more switching inputs, remotes or devices. Access Netflix, Amazon Prime, HBO GO, Hulu, Pandora and more from one, integrated experience.(2)
- Watch eye-popping 4K/UHD content. Fully 4K/Ultra High-Definition compatible right out of the box, so you can soak up all that crisp color, clarity and detail.
- SkipMode allows you to skip through entire commercial breaks of recorded shows at the press of a single button.(3) QuickMode lets you watch recorded shows 30% faster with pitch-corrected audio.
Or a little cheaper, choose the TIVO Mini for $149:
- Add a TiVo Mini to additional TVs in your home for an easy, economical and entertaining multi-room setup.
- Tru Multi Room functionality means you get the full TiVo experience on every additional TV you equip with a TiVo Mini
- Provides full access to your streaming content from Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu, VUDU, YouTube, Pandora, Spotify, iHeartRadio and more.
- Connects to your TiVo DVR through your home network via Ethernet or MoCA (does not support Wifi). Compatible with TiVo BOLT, Roamio, Roamio OTA, Roamio Plus, Roamio Pro, Premiere 4 and Premiere XL4/Elite.
- Video Output Modes 480i, 480p, 720p, 1080i, 1080p
Next we bought an antennae.
We bought this Clearstream Antannae and it's been working really well picking up about 20 local channels. This was $59. You can go a little cheaper with these options, but reception might not be good.
We decided which programming was most important to us. We got the channels free over the air but we had to think which shows we wanted to see the most. We found Hulu, Amazon Prime and Netflix were must-haves.
For channels like Starz and Showtime, Amazon has some nice free 30 day trials with easy cancel if you change your mind before getting charged.
Be sure you are an Amazon Prime member. Click below for a FREE 30 day trial!
Try Amazon Prime 30-Day Free Trial
Then click below which channels you'd like to try out!
10+ Uses For Borax
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You might remember Borax being a staple in your mom or grandmother's homes. Well, it's still a must-have for every home. There are so many uses, here are 10 to get you started!
Preserving Flowers
Fresh-cut flowers of many varieties may be permanently preserved. Borax removes moisture from blossoms and leaves, thereby preventing the wilting which would normally result. Two different mixtures (by weight) are recommended: two parts 20 Borax and one part dry white sand, or one part Borax and two parts corn meal.
Carpet Cleaning
Use a 1/2 cup of Borax per gallon of water in carpet steam cleaning machines.
Toilet Bowl Cleaner
Pour 1 cup of borax into the toilet bowl at night before you go to sleep. The next morning clean out the toilet bowl with a brush. The borax will loosen all the grime buildup.
“Goo Gone” Remover
Mix together borax and water in a 2-to-1 ratio. Rub on to get rid of sticky, gooey, gummy adhesive residue.
Humidifiers
To help keep your humidifier free of odor, dissolve one tablespoon of borax per gallon of water and add it to the unit. Be sure to rinse out this solution before refilling your humidifier with pure water prior to use.
Pests
Keep roaches, water bugs, and ants away by sprinkling a combination of equal parts all-natural borax and sugar.
Flea Killer
Sprinkle borax on dog beds, carpets, and other areas where you suspect that fleas are hatching. Borax releases boric acid, which is a poison (note that very high doses would need to be ingested to harm a pet or human).
Mice Deterrent
Sprinkle borax on the floor along the walls (mice like to run along the side of walls). They don’t like getting the borax on their feet, so they are less likely to return to that area of the house.
Shower, Tub & Tile
Sprinkle on a damp sponge or soft cloth and use as you would a powdered cleanser. This can even be used on fiberglass surfaces without scratching. Rinse thoroughly.
Clean Hairbrushes and Combs
Mix a quarter cup borax and a tablespoon of a grease cutting dishwashing liquid (like Dawn) in a basin of warm water. Swish brushes in the sudsy water, let soak, rinse, and let dry.
Cleaning Cookware
Borax is a mild and gentle cleaner for porcelain and aluminum cookware. Sprinkle on pots and pans and rub with a damp dishcloth. Rinse thoroughly.
Refrigerator Deodorizer
Spilled food can be washed away with a sponge or soft cloth using a solution of 1 quart warm water and 1 tablespoon of borax. Rinse with cold water.
Mold Inhibitor
Make a thick borax and water paste. Smear it on the moldy area. Let set until dry (overnight or longer). Sweep up the powder, and rinse off the rest.
Garbage Can Deodorizer
Deodorize your garbage pail by filling it with borax and water. Let it soak then rinse it out. Sprinkle some borax in the bottom once it’s clean. This will keep the bugs away and absorb any odor causing moisture.
Remove Rust
Remove rust by mixing the above solution with a tablespoon of lemon juice.
Sink Cleaner
Remove stains from stainless steel or porcelain sinks with a paste or 1 cup borax and 1/4 cup lemon juice. Using a sponge or cloth, rub the stain with the paste. Rinse with warm water.
Kill Weeds
Useful for weeds that surface in concrete cracks and on walkways, but shouldn’t be used in the garden because it will also kill your plants.
Outdoor Furniture
Mix 1 teaspoon dish detergent, 1 teaspoon borax and 1 quart warm water in a spray bottle and use to clean outdoor furniture.
Cat Litter Deodorizer
Minimize odor in your cat’s litter box by mixing a few tablespoons of borax in with the litter.
Garbage Disposal Cleaner
Clean and sanitize your garbage disposal by putting 3 tablespoons of borax down the drain. Let it sit for an hour and flush it with warm water.
Shine China
Make your worn china sparkle again by soaking in a sink full of warm water and a 1/2 cup of borax. Rinse well and wash a second time as usual.
Linens
Remove mildew and mustiness from linens by soaking them in 2 cups of borax mixed with 2 quarts of water. Let the linens sit for a few hours, then rinse clean.
Unclog Drains
Unclog drains with 1/2 cup of borax followed by 2 cups of boiling water. Let it sit for 15 minutes, then run your water for a few minutes to flush it out.
Clean Mattresses
Remove urine odor from a mattress. Wet the mattress, rub in borax with a damp cloth. Let dry, then vacuum up the remaining residue.
Preserving Flowers
Fresh-cut flowers of many varieties may be permanently preserved. Borax removes moisture from blossoms and leaves, thereby preventing the wilting which would normally result. Two different mixtures (by weight) are recommended: two parts 20 Borax and one part dry white sand, or one part Borax and two parts corn meal.
Carpet Cleaning
Use a 1/2 cup of Borax per gallon of water in carpet steam cleaning machines.
Toilet Bowl Cleaner
Pour 1 cup of borax into the toilet bowl at night before you go to sleep. The next morning clean out the toilet bowl with a brush. The borax will loosen all the grime buildup.
“Goo Gone” Remover
Mix together borax and water in a 2-to-1 ratio. Rub on to get rid of sticky, gooey, gummy adhesive residue.
Humidifiers
To help keep your humidifier free of odor, dissolve one tablespoon of borax per gallon of water and add it to the unit. Be sure to rinse out this solution before refilling your humidifier with pure water prior to use.
Pests
Keep roaches, water bugs, and ants away by sprinkling a combination of equal parts all-natural borax and sugar.
Flea Killer
Sprinkle borax on dog beds, carpets, and other areas where you suspect that fleas are hatching. Borax releases boric acid, which is a poison (note that very high doses would need to be ingested to harm a pet or human).
Mice Deterrent
Sprinkle borax on the floor along the walls (mice like to run along the side of walls). They don’t like getting the borax on their feet, so they are less likely to return to that area of the house.
Shower, Tub & Tile
Sprinkle on a damp sponge or soft cloth and use as you would a powdered cleanser. This can even be used on fiberglass surfaces without scratching. Rinse thoroughly.
Clean Hairbrushes and Combs
Mix a quarter cup borax and a tablespoon of a grease cutting dishwashing liquid (like Dawn) in a basin of warm water. Swish brushes in the sudsy water, let soak, rinse, and let dry.
Cleaning Cookware
Borax is a mild and gentle cleaner for porcelain and aluminum cookware. Sprinkle on pots and pans and rub with a damp dishcloth. Rinse thoroughly.
Refrigerator Deodorizer
Spilled food can be washed away with a sponge or soft cloth using a solution of 1 quart warm water and 1 tablespoon of borax. Rinse with cold water.
Mold Inhibitor
Make a thick borax and water paste. Smear it on the moldy area. Let set until dry (overnight or longer). Sweep up the powder, and rinse off the rest.
Garbage Can Deodorizer
Deodorize your garbage pail by filling it with borax and water. Let it soak then rinse it out. Sprinkle some borax in the bottom once it’s clean. This will keep the bugs away and absorb any odor causing moisture.
Remove Rust
Remove rust by mixing the above solution with a tablespoon of lemon juice.
Sink Cleaner
Remove stains from stainless steel or porcelain sinks with a paste or 1 cup borax and 1/4 cup lemon juice. Using a sponge or cloth, rub the stain with the paste. Rinse with warm water.
Kill Weeds
Useful for weeds that surface in concrete cracks and on walkways, but shouldn’t be used in the garden because it will also kill your plants.
Outdoor Furniture
Mix 1 teaspoon dish detergent, 1 teaspoon borax and 1 quart warm water in a spray bottle and use to clean outdoor furniture.
Cat Litter Deodorizer
Minimize odor in your cat’s litter box by mixing a few tablespoons of borax in with the litter.
Garbage Disposal Cleaner
Clean and sanitize your garbage disposal by putting 3 tablespoons of borax down the drain. Let it sit for an hour and flush it with warm water.
Shine China
Make your worn china sparkle again by soaking in a sink full of warm water and a 1/2 cup of borax. Rinse well and wash a second time as usual.
Linens
Remove mildew and mustiness from linens by soaking them in 2 cups of borax mixed with 2 quarts of water. Let the linens sit for a few hours, then rinse clean.
Unclog Drains
Unclog drains with 1/2 cup of borax followed by 2 cups of boiling water. Let it sit for 15 minutes, then run your water for a few minutes to flush it out.
Clean Mattresses
Remove urine odor from a mattress. Wet the mattress, rub in borax with a damp cloth. Let dry, then vacuum up the remaining residue.
20+ Baby Freebies for New Parents
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Here are the best freebies for babies and new parents!
--Free Enfamil Formula ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I signed up online for a free program called Enfamil Family Beginnings and received over $50 in free products and coupons shipped to my house for free!
--Free Honest Co Diapers, Shampoo⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I signed up for two free trials from The Honest Co to maximize the $5.95 flat-rate cost of shipping. I got the diapers and wipes bundle (7 diapers+10 wipes) and the essentials bundle (soap, shampoo, lotion, household cleaner).
--Free Gerber Baby Gift Box ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Call Gerber [1-800-408-7277] and request the free Gerber Baby Nutrition Kit, available from your pediatrician or hospital. I received a can of formula, a 3-6 month onesie, a $2 coupon, and a handwritten note from Gerber.
--Target Baby Registry Freebie ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Click here to get this FREE baby registry kit from Target!
Here’s what you might receive in your gift pack (items may vary by location):
- Dr. Brown bottle ($9.99 value)
- MAM Newborn pacifier ($5.99 value)
- Honest Wipes and Diapers sample pack ($2 value)
- Johnson's samples
- Cute bag
- and MORE!
--Amazon Baby Registry Freebie (Savingsmania readers love this!)⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Create an online Amazon Baby Registry,and then you'll receive this nice gift pack, as seen above! Click below to get started!
Get this awesome baby kit, click here!
--Free Similac Strong Moms Kit ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I joined a free program called Similac StrongMoms and received the Similac Neosure Ready-to-Feed formula ($10.99 value) and a $2 off coupon. Please note, this welcome gift seems to vary greatly. Three of the ladies at the office joined, and we all got something a little different. One of us got $10 in Similac checks instead of samples.
--Free Store Brand Formula Coupon⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I printed a coupon worth $5 off my store brand formula! To get yours, head over toStoreBrandFormula.com; enter your name, location, desired formula brand, baby’s birth date, and click “Get My Coupon.” Then, print the coupon immediately. Don’t forget to use the back browser to print the coupon a second time!
--30 Days Free Amazon Prime ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
A Must Have for busy moms! Get diapers, baby supplies, formula and more shipped right to your door in 2 days! Join Amazon Family and get a free month of Prime 2-day shipping and 20% off diaper subscriptions.
--Free Gymboree Class & Coupon⭐⭐⭐⭐
I signed my son up for this years ago and he had a blast. Print a FREE class coupon and receive a voucher for 20% off my next purchase at Gymboree, Janie & Jack, or Crazy 8.
--Free Walmart Baby Box of Freebies⭐
I signed up for the Walmart Baby Box, which is a 4x per year subscription box that costs just $5 per box in shipping charges. This really is a nice box of freebies!
--Free toys from Pampers Rewards ⭐⭐⭐
I’ve long been a member of Pampers Rewards. Cash in your points for gift cards, magazines and more!
--Shutterfly Freebies
Shutterfly is always offering freebies. Right now they are offering a FREE photo book!
More Offers!
Debit Card Dangers
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Debit cards are a nice convenience to use, but they are also a big moneymaker for banks. For example, if you unintentionally let your balance get too low, each debit that comes through will bounce. With fees as high as $34 per bounce, this can quickly add up to hundreds of dollars in a matter of seconds. So for example, if you forgot to track a few debits and a large check went through, many banks will honor the large check and then bounce all the debits, even debits as small as $2. Here are some ways to avoid the banks stealing your hard-earned money:
Tip #1: Keep Your Balance as High as Possible
Keep a cushion of money in your account to avoid bouncing checks or debits. Also, find out if your bank allows you to transfer money from your savings account to your checking account, to cover any unexpected expenses.
Tip #2: Track Your Spending on the Computer
Sign up for your bank's online banking program. This is an easy way to see what is going on with your checking account. Also, buy Microsoft Money or another financial software package. These software packages allow you to do your checking account online and not have to use your checkbook ledger.
Tip #3: Use Cash, Instead of Your Debit Card
Cash can't bounce and that's the beauty of it. Also, I've found spending actual cash makes you more aware of what you are spending. It seems when you swipe a debit card, it's so easy to spend more because it doesn't seem like spending "actual" money. At the beginning of each week or payday, take out what you think you'll need and stick with that.
Tip #4: Don't Spend Deposits that Aren't Credited Yet
There seems to be a line of thinking that once you deposit a check in the bank, it's yours for the spending. This is not true. Most banks put holds on checks for several days, even up to a week. It's best to wait until the deposit has cleared before swiping your debit card at the store. Debits go through at lightening-speed, and if the bank chooses to continue to hold your deposit, you'll get huge fees on the "bounced" debits.
One way around the hold banks put on checks is to cash the check, and then deposit the cash. Cash must be available immediately for your use. This way, you won't have to wait several days for your money.
Tip #5: Understand Your Bank's Policies
When you open a checking account, many banks aren't clear as to how long they hold checks or how quickly they process debits and checks. Be sure to call and get any questions you have answered. If you don't like the answers they give you, it's a good idea to find a new bank.
Tip #6: If You've Gotten Burned Already, Fight Back
When it comes to burning customers with bounce fees, banks hope you won't fight back and request courtesy credits. If you've been a good customer, call and explain the situation and see if they'll credit the majority of the bounce fees. If you find yourself in the same situation a second time and losing more money in bounce fees, consider finding a new bank with more customer-friendly policies.
Canning 101
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Canning is an awesome way to save money and have nutritious food on hand.
Here are the supplies you need!
--Canning Jars and Seals – use mason-style jars with sealed lids and rings, which can be found at most grocery stores
--Wide-Mouth Funnel – makes filling jars with sauces or jams easier and less messy
--Lid Wand – for easy removal of lids and rings from boiling water
--Ladle – for filling jars
--Large Pot – for boiling canned preserves and jams, fruits, tomatoes and pickled vegetables
--Pressure Canner – used for canning vegetables and meats because it has the ability to reach a higher temperature
--Tongs of Jar Lifters – rubberized lifters make removing cans from their water bath less slippery, but a good pair of tongs can work just as well
--Clean Cloths – used to wipe down jars, lids and rims of jars
Here are the supplies you need!
--Canning Jars and Seals – use mason-style jars with sealed lids and rings, which can be found at most grocery stores
--Wide-Mouth Funnel – makes filling jars with sauces or jams easier and less messy
--Lid Wand – for easy removal of lids and rings from boiling water
--Ladle – for filling jars
--Large Pot – for boiling canned preserves and jams, fruits, tomatoes and pickled vegetables
--Pressure Canner – used for canning vegetables and meats because it has the ability to reach a higher temperature
--Tongs of Jar Lifters – rubberized lifters make removing cans from their water bath less slippery, but a good pair of tongs can work just as well
--Clean Cloths – used to wipe down jars, lids and rims of jars
The Process of Preserving
1. START BY STERILIZING YOUR JARS.
Wash your lids and jars in hot soapy water. Then move them to a boiling water bath for ten minutes to sterilize. Remove jars from the water bath, but leave the lids in the hot water until you’re ready to use them to ensure they don’t come in contact with anything before you seal your jars.
2. SLICE, DICE, PICKLE AND POUR.
It is best to can your fruits and vegetables immediately after you harvest them for the highest vitamin and nutrient concentration.The longer a fresh piece of produce sits, the more vitamins it loses. Prepare fruits and vegetables by slicing and dicing, prepare your jams and preserves using your favorite recipes (or ours, as we’ll have several of our top recipes coming up this week), and pickle vegetables before placing in the jars.
Tomatoes should have lemon juice or another citric acid added to them prior to canning to ensure their pH level is above 4.6, and ascorbic acid solutions can be added to fruits to prevent browning prior to placing in jars.
Iron, aluminum and copper should not be used when preparing your fruits and vegetables to can. These metals can cause discoloration of the produce.
3. FILL YOUR JARS.
There are a few things to remember when filling your jars. First, be sure not to fill them completely. Produce expands during the boiling process, so leaving adequate space at the top prevents the jar from leaking and making a mess.
After filling your jar with produce, unless canning jams, jellies and preserves, you’ll be pouring liquid to submerge the fruit or vegetables. Pour the boiling water, pickling solution or juice to cover up to the top of your produce.
Make sure there are no air bubbles along the sides of the jar and that the produce is submerged in the liquid. Wipe the rims of the jars down with a clean cloth and cap with the flat sealing lids and rims.
4. PROCESS YOUR JARS.
Preheat water in your pot or pressure cooker. For hot produce, water should be preheated to 180º F, and for cold produce, it should be around 140º F. This will help prevent the jars from cracking when they are placed in the pot.
Water should be an inch or two above the top of the canning jar when they are placed in the pot for a water boiling process. Use a pressure canner according to the manufacturer’s directions to determine the amount of water needed in the bottom prior to adding the jars.
Add the jars using your tongs or jar lifter, and place them in the vessel so they are not touching. Place the lid on your pot or pressure canner. With water bath canning, bring the water to a slow boil and then start your timer to process for the length of time dictated by which vegetable you’re canning and the altitude at which you live. For pressure cooking, you’ll want to check for the length and temperature needed for your region as well.
5. REMOVE YOUR JARS AND LET THEM COOL.
Place your jars on a flat wood or cloth-covered solid surface to let them cool. Let them sit for a day to completely cool. While cooling, your jars will start to pop, creating the vacuum seal.
After they have cooled, press down on the center of your jars to ensure they have sealed completely. Any lids that spring back have not sealed and can be placed in the refrigerator and eaten first.
6. LABEL AND STORE YOUR PRESERVED FOOD.
Label your jars with the contents and the date. You can write directly on the lid with a Sharpie or download and print or purchase specialty labels for your jars.
Once you have them labeled and have wiped off any food pieces or water from the outside of the jar, store your food in a dark, dry place until you’re ready to enjoy.
How to Season and Clean a Cast Iron Pan
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Seasoning
Traditional cast-iron skillets don't emerge from the box with a nonstick surface. That comes with seasoning, or coating the skillet with cooking oil and baking it in a 350° F oven for an hour. It won't take on that shiny black patina just yet, but once you dry it with paper towels, it will be ready to use. You'll reinforce the nonstick coating every time you heat oil in the skillet, and you can hasten the process by seasoning as often as you like. Or you can forget seasoning and go with Lodge Logic (available at hardware and cookware stores), a line of preseasoned skillets from Lodge Manufacturing, the oldest U.S. maker of cast-iron cookware.
Traditional cast-iron skillets don't emerge from the box with a nonstick surface. That comes with seasoning, or coating the skillet with cooking oil and baking it in a 350° F oven for an hour. It won't take on that shiny black patina just yet, but once you dry it with paper towels, it will be ready to use. You'll reinforce the nonstick coating every time you heat oil in the skillet, and you can hasten the process by seasoning as often as you like. Or you can forget seasoning and go with Lodge Logic (available at hardware and cookware stores), a line of preseasoned skillets from Lodge Manufacturing, the oldest U.S. maker of cast-iron cookware.
Cleaning
A cast-iron skillet isn't ideal for a set-aside-to-soak sort of person. For best results, rinse the pan with hot water immediately after cooking. If you need to remove burned-on food, scrub with a mild abrasive, like coarse salt, and a nonmetal brush to preserve the nonstick surface; you can also use a few drops of a mild dishwashing soap every once in a while. If the pan gets a sticky coating or develops rust over time, scrub it with steel wool and reseason it. To prevent rust, dry the skillet thoroughly and lightly coat the cooking surface with cooking oil. Cover with a paper towel to protect it from dust.
A cast-iron skillet isn't ideal for a set-aside-to-soak sort of person. For best results, rinse the pan with hot water immediately after cooking. If you need to remove burned-on food, scrub with a mild abrasive, like coarse salt, and a nonmetal brush to preserve the nonstick surface; you can also use a few drops of a mild dishwashing soap every once in a while. If the pan gets a sticky coating or develops rust over time, scrub it with steel wool and reseason it. To prevent rust, dry the skillet thoroughly and lightly coat the cooking surface with cooking oil. Cover with a paper towel to protect it from dust.
Tips
- Although everything from Dutch ovens to cactus-shaped cornbread pans comes in cast iron, nothing is more versatile than a basic skillet. Either a 10- or 12-inch will do.
- There's only one thing you shouldn't attempt in cast-iron cookware: boiling water, which will cause the pan to rust.
- Cast iron takes longer to warm than other surfaces but retains heat remarkably well and diffuses it evenly.
- Cast iron remains hot long after you remove it from the stove. As a reminder to be careful, drape a thick towel or a mitt over the handle.
- To avoid getting smudges on all your kitchen towels, designate one to use exclusively for drying your cast-iron skillet.
- Cooking in cast iron increases the iron content in food. The longer the food is in contact with the skillet, the more it absorbs.
50+ Uses for Magic Erasers
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Here are great ways to use Magic Erasers:
1. clean inside the crock pot
2. remove melted plastic on a glass top stove
3. clean swimming pool steps
4. remove baked on brown spots on cookware
5. clean antiques & collectibles
6. clean & shine things up before you sell them in a yard sale
7.remove dried paint from door hinges
8. remove tarnish from silver
9. remove mold & mildew from anything plastic
10. clean & polish gold jewelry
11. remove soap scum in the tub and shower
12. remove marks on walls (this is one of my fave uses for them)
13. splatters inside the microwave
14. remove marks on vinyl siding
15. clean mirrors in the bathroom (keeps shower mirrors from fogging)
16. remove adhesive residue after removing stickers
17. remove waterline mark around the pool
18. remove hair dye from countertops & floors
19. clean light-colored suede
20. remove black scuff marks from baseboards
21. clean the outdoor side of window sills stained from leaves, dust and dirt
22. clean plastic coolers inside and out
23.remove rust spots & stains on countertop
24. remove cooked-on stains in pots and pans
25. remove soot off the walls near the fireplace
26. clean within the grooves of lawn ornaments
27. clean sticky/dusty range hood over the stove
28. remove nail polish spills or stains
29. clean airbake cookie sheets & bakeware (the kind with all those tiny grooves)
30. clean oven shelves & the grates on the grill
31. remove wet nose marks from pets on the windows (even car windows)
32. remove toothpaste splashes from bathroom mirrors
33. remove melted plastic on the side of the toaster oven
34. remove grimy green algae from cement (bird baths, steps, ponds, etc)
35. clean stained elbows from dirty work
36. remove green mildew from siding and gutters
37. remove paint spills & oversprays
38. remove toilet bowl rings (cut a piece off & let it set in your toilet overnight; don’t flush it; doesn’t always work)
39. remove built-up algae, water deposits, etc from ceramic flower pots
40. clean dish drainers that are gunked with lime and build-up
41. remove bird poop from concrete bird bath
42. remove coffee & tea stains that remain inside a mug, caraffe, thermos even after washing
43. clean the plastic agitator inside your washing machine
44. clean window screens (even when they are still in the window)
45. remove built-up baked on grease inside the deep fryer
46. clean boat & outdoor furniture upholstery
47. clean vinyl striping on motorhomes, vans, boats
48. clean car tires, including white walls
49. clean pebbled surfaces like the outside of plastic coolers
50. remove scuff marks from your patio furniture
1. clean inside the crock pot
2. remove melted plastic on a glass top stove
3. clean swimming pool steps
4. remove baked on brown spots on cookware
5. clean antiques & collectibles
6. clean & shine things up before you sell them in a yard sale
7.remove dried paint from door hinges
8. remove tarnish from silver
9. remove mold & mildew from anything plastic
10. clean & polish gold jewelry
11. remove soap scum in the tub and shower
12. remove marks on walls (this is one of my fave uses for them)
13. splatters inside the microwave
14. remove marks on vinyl siding
15. clean mirrors in the bathroom (keeps shower mirrors from fogging)
16. remove adhesive residue after removing stickers
17. remove waterline mark around the pool
18. remove hair dye from countertops & floors
19. clean light-colored suede
20. remove black scuff marks from baseboards
21. clean the outdoor side of window sills stained from leaves, dust and dirt
22. clean plastic coolers inside and out
23.remove rust spots & stains on countertop
24. remove cooked-on stains in pots and pans
25. remove soot off the walls near the fireplace
26. clean within the grooves of lawn ornaments
27. clean sticky/dusty range hood over the stove
28. remove nail polish spills or stains
29. clean airbake cookie sheets & bakeware (the kind with all those tiny grooves)
30. clean oven shelves & the grates on the grill
31. remove wet nose marks from pets on the windows (even car windows)
32. remove toothpaste splashes from bathroom mirrors
33. remove melted plastic on the side of the toaster oven
34. remove grimy green algae from cement (bird baths, steps, ponds, etc)
35. clean stained elbows from dirty work
36. remove green mildew from siding and gutters
37. remove paint spills & oversprays
38. remove toilet bowl rings (cut a piece off & let it set in your toilet overnight; don’t flush it; doesn’t always work)
39. remove built-up algae, water deposits, etc from ceramic flower pots
40. clean dish drainers that are gunked with lime and build-up
41. remove bird poop from concrete bird bath
42. remove coffee & tea stains that remain inside a mug, caraffe, thermos even after washing
43. clean the plastic agitator inside your washing machine
44. clean window screens (even when they are still in the window)
45. remove built-up baked on grease inside the deep fryer
46. clean boat & outdoor furniture upholstery
47. clean vinyl striping on motorhomes, vans, boats
48. clean car tires, including white walls
49. clean pebbled surfaces like the outside of plastic coolers
50. remove scuff marks from your patio furniture
15+ Homemade Gift Basket Ideas
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Holiday Gift Basket Ideas
No matter the holiday, gift baskets are always a hit!
And here's a tip: To save money on basket fillers, stock up on items throughout the year when there is a great sale, coupon or clearance.
And here's a tip: To save money on basket fillers, stock up on items throughout the year when there is a great sale, coupon or clearance.
Such a relaxing gift! For your best friend, give a Pampered Spa gift basket, including a mini towel, bath mitts, cozy slippers, eye pillow, luffa sponge, body sugar scrubs, bath salts & bubble bath, shower gel, bath bombs, and candles.
My mom would love this. Give a Coffee Lovers basket which could include gourmet or flavored coffees, flavored sugars, cinnamon sticks, two coffee mugs, demi spoons and a coffee table book about coffee.
Get ready for the movies! Give a Movie Lovers basket, which can include favorite DVDs (or Redbox coupons), popcorn, popcorn seasonings, bottles of water or pop, chocolate bars, and licorice.
For the tea fan on your list, give a Tea Buddy basket which can include: Gourmet teas, flavored sugars, cinnamon sticks, tea cozy, two pretty tea cups and saucers, homemade cookies/baking, homemade jam, small potted houseplant.
For the new mom and baby, a welcome baby gift basket would be a nice treat. Welcome Baby could include a Baby blanket, washcloths, socks, rattle, toys, and sleepers.
For the gardener on your list, give a Gardeners gift basket, which could include gardening gloves, gardening book, garden journal, small hand tools, handmade seed packets, and garden clogs.
More Basket Ideas:
- Chocolate Lovers (Chocolate of every kind and in every shape, nuts, gourmet coffee)
- Homemade Specialty Treats (Flavored sugars, extracts, flavored vinegars)
- Gourmet (Pickled peppers, gourmet cheese, deli crackers, fruit, wine, smoked oysters, olives, pickled asparagus, deli meat sticks)
- Pet Lovers (Personalized pet dish, pet toys, pet treats, hair brush, pet shampoo)
- Bookworm (Books, bookmarks, gourmet coffee or tea, snacks, online bookstore gift card)
- Productivity Guru (Moleskin notebook, index cards, post it notes, post it flags, expensive pen, book on productivity tips)
- Crafty (Expensive scissors, rotary cutter blades, needle case, pin cushion, spools of good quality thread, glue sticks, needle threaders, box of pins, sewing machine needles, fat quarters, craft store gift card, craft magazine or book)
10+ Tips for Making $$ on Ebay
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Recently I decided to declutter my home and post items on Ebay. I made $2000 in a few months selling on Ebay, here's how!
Choose the right products. New or very gently used sell better. Name brands like Gap, Coach, iPhone, Playstation, etc. And items with original packaging are easier to sell.
Choose the right products. New or very gently used sell better. Name brands like Gap, Coach, iPhone, Playstation, etc. And items with original packaging are easier to sell.
Geotrax
Baby and Kid Stuff
Here are some of the items I have sold on Ebay:
- Geotrax
- LeapPad + 7 books and carrying case
- Build a Bear coupons
- Gymboree coupons
- LEGO
- Fisher Price
- Disney toys
Gap Kids
Children's Clothing
New in package usually sells the best, but gently worn is ok too. Think name brands for clothing:
Vintage dishes
Vintage
Add the word "vintage" to your description for more sales. I have sold:
- dolls
- dishes
- salt and pepper shakers
- vintage Lincoln Logs
- vintage board games
- stamp collections
- antique toys
- antique books (especially 1st edition)
- Vintage accessories: Gloves, handbags, scarves, belts
- Brooches, pins
- Keychains - odd, vintage, music/sports/auto related
- Small electronics, calculators, cameras - vintage, best if with box and cables
- Early video games, especially the little handheld ones, best with box/instructions, check if they work w/new batteries
- Car-related items: keychains, accessories, etc.
- Charm bracelets, charms, pendants: odd themes, can be sold as is or separately as charms
- Costume jewelry: doesn't have to be designer, well made, unusual, odd themes
- Collectible glasses (McDonald's, etc.), the older the better
- Pens: vintage, older, unusual, again you should know what you're looking for.
- Linens: aprons, handkerchiefs, curtains, sheets, vintage, unusual, check condition carefully
- Buttons, fabric, other notions: odd, vintage, collectible
- Christmas items: ornaments, music, jewelry, decorations, again Condition, Vintage, Unusual.
- Sports memorabilia - pins, keychains, mugs, odd housewares, etc.
- Fast Food toys, the older the better (<2000 at least), best if still in packaging
- Tools/housewares- vintage, odd/unusual, best with box/cords/instructions.
And Now It's Time to Make $$!
- Choose the right category for your item-try to be as specific as possible so that potential buyers will be able to find your listing.
- Write an accurate description-brand name in the title, along with the condition. Be as specific about the details as possible. Buyers want to know exactly what they are buying.
- Take excellent photos-for the best shots, use indirect daylight (not bright sun). You don't need a fancy camera, I use my iPhone and it works great.
- Make sure your item fits in the box. I recommend selling items that fit in USPS Flat Rate shipping.
- Respect the buyers-once your auction is live, be sure to pay attention to any questions.
- Never ship before payment! This is one of the #1 rules. Most buyers will pay quickly but never ship an item until you have received your payment! Be sure to send out an invoice and a gentle reminder after a few days. If you don't get resolution, be sure to contact Ebay.
- Ship your item as soon as possible–as soon as you’ve been paid, make an effort to ship out your item. You can pay for shipping and print your label at home. If you already have the box then all you have to do is tape it up, put on the pre-paid label, & let your mail carrier pick it up or drop it off at the nearest post office!
- Give feedback–whether positive or negative, leave feedback on your buyer’s feedback page.
100+ Amazing Freebies for College Student
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- 24 Hour Fitness — Students get a discounted rate at 24 hour fitness, just show your student ID when you sign up.
- Aerie — 10% off in store when you show your ID.
- AT&T Wireless — Enter you student email here to see if you can save 10% with an AT&T student discount.
- Adobe — Did you know about Adobe's student discount? Students can get up to 80% off popular software.
- Allstate — College students can save a whopping 20% off for full time students.
- Amazon Prime — Amazon Prime's Student Discount is half the price ($49/ year) for students.
- American Eagle — 10% off with student ID (in store).
- AMC Theaters — Going to see a movie sometime soon? Get discounted student tickets every Thursday with school ID.
- Amtrak — Score 10% off your train or bus ride with ID.
- Ann Taylor — Want the Ann Taylor student discount? Get 15% off your order at Ann Taylor with your student ID.
- Apple Music — Get the Apple Music student discount and you'll score a membership for just $4.99 a month.
- Apple Store — Apple has a special section of their website for student discounts. Save up to $200 on a new mac.
- Arby's — Get 10% off your entire order when you show your ID.
- ASOS — Through Unidays get 10% off full priced items through their website.
- Banana Republic — Students get a discount at Banana Republic of 15% off your order with your student ID.
- Barnes & Noble — check out their deals on renting textbooks you can get up to 50% off rentals so don't miss out on that.
- Best Buy — Best Buy offers the student deal program where you can save big on laptops, computers and tablets.
- Billabong — Through UNiDAYS get 10% off your order.
- Brooks Brothers — Have a job interview coming up? Students get 15% off with your college ID.
- Buffalo Wild Wings — I love Buffalo Wild Wings. Such a great place for students to enjoy wings at a discount. Get 10% off your meal by asking your waiter about the Buffalo Wild Wings student discount.
- Burger King — did you know about Burger King's Student Discount? Yup, just ask for the student discount to get 10% off your purchase.
- Champs — With the student advantage car, get 10% off any purchase of $50 of more.
- Charlotte Russe — Bring your student ID for the Charlotte Russe student discount, you'll get 10% off your purchase.
- Chicago Art Institute — Show you ID for 20% off your visit.
- Chick-fil-A — one of the best places to eater during college so why not get a discount? The student's dicounts at Chick-fil-A is a free drink, just show your student ID.
- Chipotle — bring your student ID the next time your at Chipotle to score a free drink for students.
- Cinemark Theaters — Try showing your ID to get a student discount (varies but many do).
- Coach USA — There are discounted rates for students, just visit their site for details.
- Cricket Wireless — Cricket offers a discounted plan for students, just ask!
- Dairy Queen — ask about their Dairy Queen student discount with your ID, it's call the student meal deal.
- Dell — With the Dell Student Discount get huge savings through their Dell University program.
- Denver Art Museum — Colorado students get in for just $8 when they show their student ID.
- Dockers — Again, use UNiDAYS to score a whopping 20% off all full priced items from Dockers.
- Dunkin Donuts — Score 10% with ID at participating locations.
- Eddie Bauer — Get 10% off full priced items with your student ID.
- Esurance — Lower your premiums by 10% with a 3.0 gpa!
- Eurail — Any person under 26 can get a 35% off discount.
- Evernote — One year premium 75% off.
- Express — Get 15% off with student ID.
- Express Factory — Get 15% off with student ID.
- Farmers Insurance — With a B average you can get a heft discount.
- FedEx Office — Need some printing done, use your student ID to get up to 30% off your purchase.
- Firehouse Subs — Score 10% off participating locations with ID.
- Geico — Students with a B average are eligible for a student discount.
- General Motors — With GM combine student discounts (on financing) with any other offer they have going on.
- Goodwill — Most don't know but did you know Goodwill has a student discount? Just show your student ID for 10% off.
- Greyhound — Taking a trip? Get the student discount card to get 20% off your ticket.
- H&M — Want to get a student discount from H&M? Show your student ID to get 15% off your order.
- Hanes — Score 10% off your purchase for students.
- HP — Join the HP academy program for sweet deals.
- Houston Ballet — Show up 90 minutes prior to show for $10 Rush tickets.
- J. Crew — Show your ID to get the J. Crew student discount. You'll get a whopping 15% off your in-store purchase with it!
- Jiffy Lube — Got a flat? Get 10% off your total at Jiffy Lube with student ID.
- Jo-Ann Fabric — Get 10% off any purchase by joining the student discount program.
- Juicy Couture — Show your student ID to get 15% off your order at Juicy Couture.
- Kate Spade — Score 15% off full priced items with student ID.
- Lenovo — Score 25% of select computers at Lenovo.
- Limited — Trying to get a student discount at Limited? Show your id (in-store online for 15% off your purchase.
- Levi's — Get 15% off when you register your student status through the UNiDAYS app.
- Logitech — Grabbing a keyboard or mouse? Get 30% off through Logitech.com.
- McDonald's — score the McDonald's student discount by showing your ID and getting 10% off your order.
- Met Opera in NY — sign up for student discounts and get up to 25% off.
- Microsoft — Get 10% off with the Microsoft Student Discount.
- MLB TV — Score 35% off the premium MLB TV plan for students.
- ModCloth — Shopping at ModCloth and wanting to save? Get 10% off when you register for college students.
- Museum of Modern Art — One free admission per museum for full time students at NY colleges.
- New Jersey Transit — Get 25% off monthly passes for students.
- New York Times — Times are crazy right now, if you're subscribing to NYT students can actually get 50% off with their student rate.
- Norton — Students can get 50% off virus security.
- Pizza Hut — although it varies from place to place, expect an up to 20% off student discount when you order a pizza from Pizza Hut.
- Qdoba — Get a free soft drink when you show your ID.
- Papa John's — Discount varies by location (w/ ID) just ask.
- RadioShack — 10% off with ID (in-store).
- Redbox — Score a free one day rental when you like them on Facebook.
- Regal Theaters — Brings your ID many theaters offer student discounts.
- Sally Beauty Supply — Register with your beauty school ID for their student discount and you'll get can't miss student discounts and coupons.
- Sam's Club — Not only do students get exclusive deals, but also you'll get a free $15 Sam's Club gift card with your membership sign up.
- ShoeBuy — Register through studentrate and you'll get 10% off.
- Shoney's — Students can score 15% off your meal.
- Sony — Get 10% off when you join Sony's student program.
- Sperry — Get $10 off, after your first purchase.
- Spotify — One of our favorites, get a membership for $4.99 a month!
- Sprint — Spring offers up to 15% in monthly saves with their student discount program.
- State Farm — Get 25% off with good grades with State Farm.
- Steve Madden — Want the Steve Madden student discount? Luckily you can score a 10% off discount with student ID.
- Subway — Bring your student ID to get 10% your sub.
- Supercuts — 20% off your haircut with ID.
- Sweet Tomatoes — Get 10% off at some locations when you show your ID.
- Taco Bell — 10% off with ID.
- T-Mobile — With StudentRate get 10% off your monthly bill.
- TCBY — looking to score the TCBY student discount? Just show your student ID to get 15% off your order.
- The Economist — Get 12 weeks for $30 or the whole year for $96!
- Toms — I love Toms. Did you know they have a discount for students of 10% off with your student ID? Pretty sweet.
- Tommy Hilfiger — Get 15% off with ID.
- Travelers Insurance — With a B average you'll get a student discount.
- Urban Outfitters — Urban Outfitters does offer a student discount, but it's a little tricky. Some days it's offered others not. Just sign up for their student program to get the emails.
- Verizon — Depending on what school you attend you may be able to save on your bill from Verizon, just ask!
- Vineyard Vines — Score 15% discount in-store with your student ID.
- Waffle House — Have a late night? Going to Waffle house in the am? Bring your ID to get 10% off your order.
- Wall Street Journal — Students get WSJ for just $1 a week.
- Zipcar — Register with your schools email to see discounted rates for your school.
MORE TIPS:
Dorm Supplies
Retailers love the back to school season. Many students get excited about going off to college for the first time and spend a bundle on notebooks, pens, expensive plastic storage containers and packages of snack foods. So how do you get what you need and not overspend? Here are some savings tips:
- Buy school supplies at the lowest price available. Late July and August are the perfect time to stock up, especially at stores like Walmart and Kmart. You'll find that their notebook prices may be under 50 cents, while other times of the year, the prices can be triple.
- You'll find that a small refrigerator is a necessity, especially when it comes to saving money on food. Consider renting one from the college or do the math and see if it's cheaper to buy your own. Also microwaves will save you time and money.
- Get your stuff organized. The summer before going off to school is the perfect time to go through your closets and drawers. Consider donating clothes you no longer like or that do not fit. Once you have your basic wardrobe organized, decide whether buying new clothes is necessary.
- Dress to impress! Plenty of clothing stores offer student discounts. Ann Taylor and J. Crew are just a few that can get you ready for your internship or first job. Here’s a helpful list of student-friendly retail stores.
- If you have a lot of stuff you don't need and don't want to bring with you to school, consider having a garage sale. Get your family involved in cleaning and organizing your home. Another way to get rid of extra stuff is to sign up for free seller accounts on ebay.com and half.com. Craigslist is a great way too to make some cash.
- Trade with friends. Do they have an extra storage container you could use and you have an extra laundry bag? Set up a time to swap with them.
- Did you receive a lot of cash for graduation? If so, resist the temptation to use it on school stuff. Look at what you have at home first before blowing that money. You might want to put it in a savings account for unexpected school expenses.
- Secondhand shops are a good place to find dorm supplies, such as storage containers, desk fans, lamps, and more.
- Garage sales may also have what you need and at even lower prices than secondhand stores.
Keep in touch with the family! Be sure your cell phone is up to date, has unlimited talk and text-
It's time to leave for school. The car is packed with your belongings. You saved quite a bit on money and have some in the bank. Now how do you save once you get to school?
Food
- Before leaving for school, have a bake off with your family and friends. Prepare batches of cookies, bread or other treats and swap.
- Are you on a meal plan? Be sure to take advantage of it and schedule in when you will eat breakfast, lunch and dinner. If your class schedule means you'll need to miss a meal, have easy to prepare meals in your dorm, such as cereal, oatmeal, macaroni and cheese, and cans of ravioli.
- Between meals, carry a bottle to fill at water fountains or filled with your favorite beverage. Or if you are a coffee drinker, pack a thermos.
- Trips to the vending machine can add up. Fill a pocket of your backpack with healthy snacks, such as fruit, Jell-O cups, or pretzels.
- Buy your snack foods in bulk. Larger quantities are usually cheaper and it's easy to divide up the food into smaller portions.
- Shop at the grocery store for food. Check out the Sunday paper for grocery store ads and match coupons to save more!
Books and Tech
- Buy books after you've gone to the class. There are times when you don't really need the book.
- Sign up for Amazon Student- FREE shipping and more!
- If you do need the book, can you and a friend buy the book and split the cost? Can you check the book out of the library? Or get a free ebook version?
- If book sharing or using the library copy doesn't work out, check the bulletin boards to see if someone is selling their copy.
Best Buy coupons, deals and more!
Sign Up for Special Student-Only Offers and Receive Promotional Codes Via E-Mail
- Online bookstores charge a lot less than campus bookstores. Go online before heading to the campus bookstore.
Get those books for FREE! Click below-
- As a last resort, buy the book from your campus bookstore. You'll find of all of your options they charge the most. Even if you get stuck paying full price, take good care of the book and sell it at the end of the year.
Entertainment and More
- Use your student ID card to get into free concerts, special lectures, comedy shows, athletic events and more.
- Movie theatre chains that offer student discounts include AMC Theatres (discounts on Thursdays), Cinemark (discounts vary by location) and Marcus Theatres ($5 Thursdays) — but independent theatres often have student discounts, too.
- Many colleges offer well-equipped gyms and recreation centers. Take advantage of the opportunity to get a free workout.
- Join clubs, many offer special trips and events to members only.
- Parks, museums and window-shopping are all free. Students get discounted access to museums, including major ones such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.
- Keep your long distance bill down and e-mail family and friends.
- Even if you have a printer, consider using the school's computer lab for print jobs. You'll save on ink cartridges and paper.
Don't pay for cable! Get Starz, Showtime and more for FREE! Click below-
- For a cheap, fun night at home, invite some friends over, make your own pizza (or order pizza with coupons!) and play some board games.
- Many businesses will offer student discounts. You just need to ask.
- Planes and train discounts? Consider getting a student ID or student discount card (but remember, you can always try to use your regular student ID). Also, check out these websites that offer airfare and hotel discounts to students.
- Find out when happy hour is to get your fill of good food at a cheap price-it will also give you a break from campus and dorm food.
- When going home for break, consider riding with another student who is heading in the same direction. It's a much cheaper and fun alternative than paying for a bus, plane or train ticket.
Remember that all it takes is some creative thinking to save money while at college. Good luck while you embark on your college career.
Coupon Stack With These 5 Web Sites
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1. Target allows unlimited coupons per order. Target.com does not allow in-store coupons (any coupon that doesn’t have a promotion code—for example: TGTXXXXX) to be used online.
2. Kohl’s allows 4 coupons per order. Combine a sitewide coupon (like $10 off a $50 purchase or 15% off an entire order), category-specific coupons (like 30% off Home or 20% off Appliances), and a free shipping coupon simultaneously. FYI Kohl’s mobile app only allows two stackable coupons.
3. Amazon allows unlimited coupons per order. Amazon allows unlimited coupons to be stacked as long as they’re eligible. Make sure to check out Amazon’s coupon section to save on hidden deals you might not even know about!
4. Gap, Banana Republic, Old Navy and Athleta allow 5 coupons per order:
Not every coupon code will work with one another, but if you try combining a percent-off coupon with a dollar-off coupon—instead of two percent-off coupons—it will more likely work. Try a Gap ‘EXTRA’ promo code with an Old Navy ‘SHIPALL’ code!
5. Michaels allows unlimited coupons per order. Michaels allows unlimited coupons online, but only for single items. So while you can’t combine a 15% off sitewide promotion with a single-item coupon code, you can find promo codes for each of the items (or groups of items) you’re buying and use them together.
6 Ways to Help Your Local School
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There are many ways to help your child's school, without spending extra money. Here are some ideas!- Box Tops for Education
Box Tops are available on hundreds of items sold in the store. These are all worth 10¢ each and they do add up quickly.
- My Coke Rewards
Donate your points here and your child's school can cash in points for sports equipement, art supplies and more!
- Smile.Amazon
Shop through smile.amazon.com and your charity/school gets a percentage back from what you’ve purchased from Amazon. You still get the items you want (even free prime shipping) and they earn too.
- Sell Old Phones & Tablets
Sell your old tech online and earn money for yourself and your school at the same time! You get every penny your item is worth and Maxback gives a 10% donation to your school of choice.
- Your Local Grocery Store
Add your school to your rewards card and every time you shop, scan your card at the register and the store gives a percentage of your purchase back to your school. There is no cost to you at all!
