Two under two!

by LMG
(Australia)

Starting a family and making the choice to raise my own children rather than let childcare do the job for me has resulted in some pretty big cuts being made to the household budget. One of the places to start looking for corners to cut was the family grocery bill and while there is always room for improvement, I think I have succeeded in making a few clever discoveries that might help others.

1. Don't be afraid to ask for six (or four or ten) slices of ham at the deli. Rather than take a guess and ask for hlf a kilo and waste the overage, ask for exactly what you want.

2. Drag out and start using the slow cooker.This is a double win because not only do cheap cuts of meat come out incredibly tender (saving $) but you then take the headache of toiling over a hot stove while bubs clings to your ankles demanding attention. (hint - condensed soups make fabulous bases for curries and stroganoffs)

3. Pack up the leftovers for hubby's lunch and pop in the freezer for him to take in a few days.

4. Do buy the non-perishables in bulk on sale and store them.

5. Don't buy perishables in bulk if you find you throw them out. Vanilla yoghurt is the main offender here in my house.

6. Do take items - particulary dairy from the back of the shelf - longer due date.

6. Recognise the catalogue cycle - for example, I've noticed that my favourite nappies are discounted approximately every 4-5 weeks by about a third. Definitely worth stocking up!!

Just a few little tips that have worked for me and might work for your family too.