Storing Your Stockpile

One of the first questions a new couponer has is "Where do you put all that stuff?"  A good thing about couponing is before long you will need to clean out those closets, something most of us put off, but now we have no choice! LOL!  Keep in mind I live in a small trailer, space is something I just don't have, so I am always on the look out for creative storage solutions.
Here are a few suggestions:

• Shoe Organizers that hang over the door are great for pantry doors.  They can hold tons of stuff, like mixes, spices, candy, snacks, crackers, etc.  And best of all you can make the bottom row things that you don't mind your children getting to so they can get their own snacks!
• One thing to always keep in mind is using a bin or drawer for certain items works out great.  When you get home, anything that can be taken out of the box take it out, mark the date with a sharpie on outside packaging if necessary and put it in a bin or drawer.  Boxes take up much more space than individual packages. 
• A storage bin works great for items that can be placed out in the garage.  Things like feminine products, hair care products that aren't under pressure, razors, cotton swabs, etc, can be placed in a bin and put in the garage on a shelf.  Out of the way and if you use a clear tub, easy to find. 
• Think creatively too.  A lot of people have unused furniture sitting around and don't even think about it.  Think of a dresser stored in your garage, a desk that is just holding a lamp might have a drawer for excess school supplies, night stands often have cabinets in them that you could put tissues or toilet paper in.  
• Clean out those closets and under those cabinets.  I am the worlds worst for having a messy closet, but there is nothing like finding a great deal on toilet paper or paper towels to make you shape up really quick!  A lot of times this will help you in the long run anyway.  You might find clothes or shoes that could go in a garage sale or to a resale shop.  

• Peg Boards in the garage are great for storage as well, tell your hubby to clean up his area cause you are moving in! LOL!
• Cold items like cheese, lunch meat, yogurt, milk, etc, store really well in the freezer. 

When storing food items, put them on shelves by expiration.  Always moving the items that expire sooner to the front.  Having your stockpile organized is important to help you keep up with how much you have of something and what you need to be on the look out for.