Stockpiling
Stockpiling 101 ( a work in progress)
What is stockpiling?
Stockpiling is having a back up of the things you use on a regular basis. A stockpile is built up over time as items go on sale and have corresponding coupons in order to get items for very cheap or even free.
How much to stockpile?
Although this is a personal preference, a stockpile should include enough to last as long as you choose. Just be aware of the expiration dates and storing recommendations of a product. Non-perishable items such as cleaners and toiletries can be bought and stored for years.
Stockpile example: If you choose to have a one-year supply stockpile and your family goes through 3 boxes of granola bars a week. You would need 156 boxes of granola bars to last for a one-year period.
How to Store Stockpile items
The type of storage you use for stockpiling will depend entirely on the amount of space you have and what suits your needs. Many people use open shelving units in their basements, pantry, garages, or wherever they may have room. Personally, I prefer closed cabinets for any food items since I have dogs and kids running around kicking up dust and dirt.
Essentials for Stockpiling:
• A Vacuum Sealer. I have both a Food Saver and the Reynolds Handi Vac. The food saver I use for anything that is a one-time use or will be stored for long periods. The Handi Vac I use for produce, cheeses, or anything else that goes in the fridge that is opened and closed on a regular basis.
• Ziploc Bags. Ziploc bags are great for holding
• Plastic Totes.
• Shelving or Storage Units
Creative Storage:
A Peg Board works great for hanging items. They can be hung behind doors and take up minimal space, but add a lot of extra storage.
Sales Cycles
Save you grocery store ads to see what kind of a sales rotation items have. Some items will be on sale every couple of weeks while others only once every couple of months. Here are some general rules of thumb to gauge when items will be on sale.
• Around Thanksgiving: flour, sugar, canned yams, cranberry sauce, canned or frozen veggies, French fried onions, pie fillings, pie crusts
• Around Christmas: ham, turkey, stuffing mix,
• Summer Holidays: ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, pop, hot dogs, ground meat, potato chips, BBQ sauce,
• Beginning of school: cookies, bread, pudding, fruit bowls,
Watch for Holiday items to be on clearance after the holiday. This is a great time to stock up on candy, cards, etc.
I stockpiled too much now what?
When you are just beginning and learning how to stockpile, buying too much is easy. You get wrapped up in getting the good deals and not realizing a person can only eat or use so much. The good thing is that toiletries, cleaning products, and paper products will last almost forever. Food on the other had does have an expiration date. However, that expiration date is not set in stone. Many products when stored properly and unopened are good long after their expiration date has passed. If you feel you need to unload some of your stockpile share with family and friends or donate the items. Local food banks, homeless shelters, and other community organizations are always looking for donations for local families in the area.
How much to pay for stockpile items? Only you can decide how much you want to pay for items. I know that we all would love for everything to be free, but it does not always work that way. These are the prices I am willing to pay.
Things I never pay for:
Shampoo
Conditioner
Toothpaste
Toothbrushes
Body Wash
Salad Dressing
Razors
Deodorant
Lipton/Knorr Sides ( I may pay up to $.25 a pack if I am completely out)
Other items:
Cereal- $.50-$1 a box
Granola/Cereal bars- $.50-$1 a box
Dish Soap- $.50 small bottle, $1 big bottle
Paper Towels-$.25 a roll
Toilet Paper-
