Psst- Today’s our leaving-Portland travel day (sad face) so we’ll probably be spotty and slow on comments/etc after 1pm EST. We’re sorry for the interruption, but so happy to have gotten the chance to explore Portland. We owe you guys a big post about all the stuff we did/bought/ate! We purchased some local art, crashed an amaaaaazing house, ate bacon on a donut, and John scored not one but two new t-shirts (neither of which are soda related, but both of which are food-related).
Lately I’ve been asked a bunch of times about how I organize/store our non-food coupons (since the grocery store ones are just stuck into one of those clear envelopes and stashed in my purse on store runs – more on that here). You know, like the ones from Michael’s, JoAnn, Old Navy and Bed Bath & Beyond and restaurants all the other not-grocery-store related places? And every time I was asked I sort of admitted that I didn’t have the best system but that I tried to slip them into the compartment on the passenger side door of our car so at least they were with us all the time (since we only have one car and are rarely at a store without the car since nothing is really that walkable from our house). The real issue was that I would forget what was in there (things would expire all the time, and it was sort of one giant mess o’ papers) and the other annoying thing was that I was always having to run back out to the car while in places like Bed Bath & Beyond and Michael’s (because I always forgot to grab the coupon before going in). The kicker? Sometimes I would run all the way back out with Beansie in tow, only to find that my coupon was expired already. Boo.
So I needed a system. And then while trolling the notebook section of Target, one found me.
It was this cute thing that I thought was a notebook and then I opened it and a light bulb went off. And it might be my best organizational coup in the last five years. Yes, it’s kinda life-changing if you’re an organizational wannabe like me (I never have my ish together, but I have dreams of conquering that one day…).
First of all it’s slim and light. Like a small notebook without all the pages (it just has a thin notepad on one side and an accordion fold-out pocket system on the other side). So I thought to myself: “self- you could put all your non-grocery coupons into the accordion side and use the pad to write down exactly what’s in there, crossing off things as they expire (so you can see all the valid coupons that you have at a glance) – and you can keep it in your purse since that’s always with you and then you won’t have to run to the car.” Yesssss. And then I high fived myself in the notebook aisle and Clara thought we were clapping so she clapped along.
So I bought it and I did all the things I told myself I would do in my head (labeled the tabs on each accordion section and used the notebook to write down what I have) and I’ve used this method for about a month (gotta trouble-shoot things before exclaiming to the internet at large that they’re life-changing) and I’m telling you it’s the bee’s knees. I can even circle things that are about to expire to remind myself to use them or lose them.
I think it was like $6 or something, and I’m still on the first sheet of paper on the pad (I had visions of running out of paper since coupons rotate in and out, but it’s amazing how one JoAnn coupon expires or gets used just as I slip a new one in there so it hasn’t been too bad with the whole crossing out thing. Of course when the page gets all crazy and scratched out over time I’ll just tear it off and start over on page two, but it seems like this pad could easily last me a year or two and then I could just replace it without replacing the whole shebang – so that’s nice. Oh and it’s recycled paper and made by a company called Greenroom if that helps anyone track it down at Tar-jay.
As for what I labeled each section, what made sense for me was: craft, food, clothes, Bed Bath & Beyond, and misc (just because I usually have a fair amount of coupons in each of those categories). And for food I don’t mean grocery coupons, I mean restaurant coupons like printed out Groupons and little fliers that I get in those Valpack mailers for places like a nearby Mexican restaurant or a local BBQ joint. As for my grocery store coupons, you can read more on those here, but they slip into a clear envelope that stays at home unless we’re going grocery shopping (we don’t usually do that at the spur of the moment like dropping in on other stores or eating out, so I just shove that envelope in my purse when we know we’re headed to Kroger).
So that’s my system to answer all of you inquisitive-coupon-loving folks out there. I hope it’s helpful to anyone else who is wrestling with non-grocery-store coupons that tend to pile up everywhere. It’s amazing how having a place for something (and not shoving them all into the side door of the car) can make them a lot easier to actually use. I think I’m better at remembering that I have them, so I’m even saving money on top of feeling like the Queen Of Organization (not in all categories, haha, but in non-grocery-coupons I’ve got it down… for now). Oh and I figured other folks out there might have other methods or tricks that they have changed their organization strategy – so spill it. I need to know how else to up my organizational ante. Seriously, help a scatterbrained momma out.
Jeanne says
Woohoo! Just left Tar-j with my new organizer! I’d say these guys are 6×9″ and around an inch thick. Would fit in a large purse just fine.
YoungHouseLove says
Thanks Jeanne! I’m so bad about guessing sizes since I always think 4 x 6″ pics are super small (5 x 7s always look like 4 x 6s to me). Haha.
xo,
s
Betsy says
Love it! You totally inspired me… Again!! I had a leftover accordion file from last time I tried to organize my coupons. So because of this post, I just organized them all (it was easy 99% of them were expired!) and my makeshift notepad is gonna make all the difference. Love the simplicity of it – in the past I have over-done it and it was too complicated to maintain. Thanks!!!!
Autumn says
Thanks for sharing this tip! I have wanted to try to start using coupons more, but like you, I put them somewhere to use and they expire before I remember. I think this notebook with storage will work great for you!
I am currently expecting my first baby, and I am really hoping I can use the 8 weeks off for maternity leave to use coupons when I am shopping. I figure my shopping routine will be changing, so maybe I can sneak in this new routine with it :)
Ariel says
Bed Bath and Beyond will take their coupons even if they’ve already “expired”. Sometimes I use ones that are ~2 years old. Also, you can use Bed Bath and Beyond coupons at Buy Buy Baby, Harmon, and Chef Central (I know they won’t take the $5 off $15 ones, though).
Gwen says
That is awesome! What a great find!
Tyne says
Hi! I went and bought one yesterday! I am going to use it as my cash envelopes system. The one I had was way too big for cash and this one comes with a pad so I can write my budget for each envelope as well as what I have spent so far! Today my friend saw it, so we went back out to target to get her one as well.
Oh, and I love that the pad can be replaced, so for $1.75 for five junior legal pads, I will keep this thing for a long time. You guys are the best!
Jeanne Wagner says
Oh man I didn’t even think of that! Great idea.
Hannah says
I officially bought one yesterday! I was surprised by the color options they had. But I finally narrowed it down to the coral one. I’m so excited to sit down and plan next month’s budget so that I can start my money envelope system and work towards becoming debt free :)
Aryn@LivingonaDimeorLess says
What an awesome idea!! I’m going to try to get to Tar-jay to pick one up ASAP!
melissa*320 sycamore says
That’s the one I use! LOVE that it has a notebook, just wish it had a pen holder.
Tara says
Did you know that the Bed Bath & Beyond coupons never really expire even though they have a date? I use expired ones all of the time.
YoungHouseLove says
Love that!
xo
s
Nicole says
I tried to do the same thing with a coupon book. The one I have was a little fatter, so it took up much needed room in my purse (and now, my diaper bag!). My problem was they expired before I remembered they were there. I have some aps on my iPhone that allow you to download virtual coupons and use them in stores! That’s helpful because I always have my phone with me. Whether or not I can find it is a different story. :)
Sondra says
I’m a big time coupon clipper for retail, but I also hate carrying all the paper around, or forgetting to print it before I leave the house. Most retail stores offer their coupons through their app, txt msg or they’ll except the ones you get via email from your phone. I do this with Joann’s, Michael’s and Hobby Lobby (they just want the 4 digit code and I keep the email and reference that from my phone while at the checkout). Then also, Old Navy, BB&B and others. Just a tip for you. Use and abuse that iPhone! :) It’s cut way down on paper clutter for me.
Erica says
I tried Target, searched all over, and found nothing like this!
Do you know what the name of it it/the brand on the back or anything? Maybe I could find one online.
I love the idea that it is a notebook,I carry one anyways and if I added a separate accordian folder for coupons it would just be way to much!
YoungHouseLove says
Oh yes, lots of folks have linked to it back in these comments. Hope it helps!
xo,
s
Alli says
There is an app called Keyring which houses all your membership cards and gives offers along with them. Its definitely helped with eliminating all those key rings and I get offers I don’t usually get by email or mail, particularly with PetCo
YoungHouseLove says
That’s so handy!
xo,
s
Paula-Manivelas puerta says
Oh, great idea, love it!
I’m a little bit disorganized and crazy, so that’s perfect for me! hahaha
Congratulations for your blog, really cool!
sarah says
Hi Sherry,
Thank you so much for doing this little feature on my product!!! I feel honored to have my work gracing the page of YHL. Love your blog and thanks for the Greenroom shout out. :)
– sarah
YoungHouseLove says
No way! We love your stuff! Who knew you were reading? Thanks for dropping in!
xo,
s
M Strolle says
I have used this notebook/file during the holidays and it is a TOTAL lifesaver. List on one side, receipts on the other, when the season is over it looks okay on a bookshelf. Then, if you need a receipt, you actually know where it is. No more digging through your handbag, or a drawer full of “stuff” or looking between the seats of the car. It is a simply amazing way to keep a lid on those pesky items.
Candace says
whats the name of the cute lil book or do you have the product/style number…. i need that in my life!
YoungHouseLove says
A bunch of people shared a link to it here in the comments so just scroll back for that link! Hope it helps.
xo,
s
Liz says
Link from Target
http://www.target.com/p/Greenroom-Expanding-File-with-8-5X11-Notepad/-/A-13421702
Scentsy says
This article really hit home. I clip my coupons, and then put them in an envelope and then forget it is in my purse and pay full price for the item. Sometimes I will actually remember that I have the coupon and when I get it, I find that it has expired. The only one that I seem to be good at is the Bed Bath and Beyond coupons. They never expire, so I put them in my glove compartment in the car. I recently used a coupon from 2006 that I found buried in the glove compartment. I will head over to Target to get one of these. I waste so much money by letting these coupons expire.THANKS!!
Gina @ Temporary Nest says
I definitely went out this past weekend and bought this exact thing. It’s brilliant, its the best coupon-related thing that has ever happened to me. Sherry- you are my hero.
Happy Vacation!
Samantha Arilotta says
I have this same notebook and let me tell you, my FAVORITE thing ever!
Hallie Hobbs says
Hey Sherry!!
I loved this coupon binder so much I made my husband bring one home for me the night you posted this!!! I was filling it up tonight and realized that the notepad part slides right out! So you could replace it with another notebook when this one runs out. YAHTZEE!!! I don’t know if someone else has already discovered this, but just wanted to let you know that now your binder will have a very, very, long life :) Hope you are having a WONDERFUL vacation!!
Thanks for posting this life changing gadget for me :)
Hallie
YoungHouseLove says
Wahoo! Love it.
xo,
s
susan says
Most places have a phone app now-and did you know that BBB and Lowe’s WILL let you use an expired coupon?
All you need to do is ask the manager on duty-they always say “yes.” I’m in the Bend, OR area BTW, so not sure how that works in other places.
I use a ziplock bag for the coupons that are not grocery specific. I keep it in the car, like you guys. The notebook seems like a LOT of extra time. Being an organized type, though, I am for whatever works for you/me/the world, LOL.
Dusty says
LOVE this idea, Sherry! Think I’ll be making a pit stop at SuperTarget on my way home tonight!
haley says
A cheapo dollar store photo album….you know, plastic with plastic sleeves?
Thats where all my store coupons go and occasionally gift certificates/card or due bills from store likes BBB. I find its easy to flip through and everything is easy to see. The accordian styles drove me nuts b/c I would jam too much into them and not as easy to see what’s in there at quick glance.
Netra says
Hello,
I found your blog after looking at the Nate Berkus show website and I have to say that I am very impressed. I am a single woman and I live in a one bedroom apartment. I really want my space to look like the Ikea magazine. lol I definitely think I am getting better as I do more research and get advice from folks like you. You have definitely inspired me but I just feel like I cap out on creativity. I really love vintage things and I want to get into decorating better on a budget. If I send you some pics of my space do you think you can give me some ideas? I am so grateful that I found your blog. I have been looking for something like this for so long. Hope to hear from you soon.
YoungHouseLove says
Aw thanks Netra! So glad you found us! Feel free to check out our Project or Moodboards or Gallery or House Crashing links/tabs/buttons to get some house ideas (or just troll back through our archives) – or you can even upload a pic of your place to our Facebook page along with a question to hopefully get feedback from folks over there when it comes to decorating advice! Hope it helps!
xo,
s
Madeline says
I noticed on your list you have coupons for Sweet Frog and the Boathouse. How did you find those coupons? I love those places! Welcome back from your vacation! I missed your posts, but am so happy you are all relaxed and enjoyed each other–so important! Oh RCC is doing a Craigslist themed improv show this Thursday–should be hilarious!
YoungHouseLove says
Sweet Frog opened near our house (a new location) and was handing them out when they did and we got an awesome $15 off coupon for the Boathouse through Living Social (spend $15 and get $30 off).
xo,
s
Madeline says
ooo very nice! Thanks!! I love Living Social and Groupon!
YoungHouseLove says
They’re the best!
xo,
s
Elizabeth@ wake&gather says
I bought this notebook probably around.d the same time you did and was inspired to start using it after your post! I even blogged a bit about it, along with some other ways we’re having to save some money. Cheers!
Emily B says
I swear these don’t exist in any Target in Houston. Is there a good Samaritan who wants to scoop up two for me and I will send money via PayPal for them and the shipping?!
Help!!
Emilykbberger @ gmail.com
YoungHouseLove says
If you scroll back through the comments there’s a link to them online so you can order them that way!
xo,
s
Emily says
Not sold online, online in stores :o(
YoungHouseLove says
Aw man, so sorry Emily!
xo,
s
Megan says
Can you tell me what brand this is at Target? This is EXACTLY what I am looking for so I am hoping my Target carries it as well. Thanks for sharing your organizing ideas!
Meg
YoungHouseLove says
It’s called Greenroom! Hope it helps!
xo,
s
Scentsy says
I found something similar to the organizer at a local store called Fred Meyer. I hadn’t been to Target yet, and I was browsing the aisles and found one that I think will do the trick for me. Thanks for the great idea. I spend the time clipping the coupons and then either can’t find them or they have expired when I go to use them. I will keep you posted to see if this helps.
Ellen says
I FINALLY got my greenroom notebook last night at Target, it was the last one on the shelf. Score! I can’t wait to get everything organized…my “paperclipped inside the checkbook” method is a massive fail.
Susan says
This is obviously a very delayed comment, but I didn’t know if you knew that Bed Bath and Beyond will take expired coupons here in GA and you can stack them too…may want to check on that.
I love your idea so much that I copycatted you and bought the same thing this past week in blue. I had a huge folder of coupons for stores and restaurants in my car and this is much more concise and clutter-free!
YoungHouseLove says
Oh yes, ours does that too! Love it!
xo,
s
kristin j says
I found it online, but it is an in stores only item. I have been to two different Targets and can’t find them (eventhough online says the store has them in stock…aparently thats not accurate). I’m gonna keep checking different Targets cause I was super bummed I haven’t been able to find it yet! It seems perfect for me. Thanks for posting about it….now if only i can find it.
YoungHouseLove says
Aw man, here’s hoping it pops up!
xo,
s
Misty says
How do you keep track of when each coupon expires so you know when to cross it off your list? That’s my biggest problem – using them before they expire.
YoungHouseLove says
I just try to glance at them when I’m in the car waiting for something or sitting on the couch watching tv. Maybe once a week I try to flip through them just to remind myself what’s in there.
xo,
s
Misty says
Thank you sooo much! I spent about an hour last night going thru the RedPlum ads that I’ve been saving up for when I make the time to go thru them – most of them had to be thrown out since they were expired, but I went to Target – got the coupon notebook thing and I’m so excited.. I used $7 worth of coupons and since I used my Target card I got 5% off for a total of $8.95 off. The best part is I got 2 big 14 oz bottles of my Aussie hairspray for only $2.38 ($1.19 each) because they were on sale 2 for $5.50 and I had a coupon for $3 off plus my 5%. They are normally $3.20 each!! I’m excited lol. Thanks again :)