It's back! "Extreme Couponing" has returned to TLC this week. I'm sure most of you have seen these shows. I watched a couple episodes and didn't really watch anymore after that.
Obviously, for it to begin another season, this is a very popular show. I do love how this show has brought to light the fact the coupons can really save you a ton of money. It is great to see so many people motivated to learn how to use coupons for themselves. I have talked to so many moms that are couponing right now because of watching this show. I'm guessing that many of you are reading this post as a result of the show, too. :)
Having said that, I want to share some of my thoughts on the show. As you will see, I do have some issues with the show simply because it isn't realistic. Read through my points and you will see why...
- This show can make your average couponer like me look like a crazy person. :) (I guess I can be at times.)
- You don't have to dedicated half your home to grocery products in order to drastically reduce your grocery budget.
- What they don't tell you on the show is that the only products these people are getting are the freebie deals. While you will get products for FREE, you won't be getting all your groceries each week for FREE.
- Most families will be buying produce and other items needed for the week. You can still dramatically cut your grocery budget with coupons, but it isn't realistic to think you will only spend $6 or less every trip.
- This show discourages many people who are couponing because they compare themselves to the savings on the show....not very realistic.
- Many of the couponers (not all) on this show are buying coupons online. This is a controversial issue when it comes to couponing ethics.
- Most stores have a limit on the number of coupons doubled or used. Those policies are being waved for the entertainment of this show. Obviously, they won't wave these policies for everyone.
- The show seems to mock the idea of stockpiling. Now, I agree it's crazy to have so much stuff in your home that you can't use your bedrooms, etc. anymore. I do, however, strongly encourage stockpiling products.....which is simply buying items on a great sale and buying enough to last you till the next great sale. (i.e. 8-12 weeks) Without stockpiling, you will eventually need to pay regular price for the items you need.
- They don't show how many couponers donate items often to local charities/friends/family. This is a HUGE plus to me in having a stockpile. It's a great way to be able to help others.
- Many couponers on this show clear out the shelves and there is nothing left for other shoppers. Although sometimes you may purchase the last few items on the shelf, clearing out hundreds of products that you won't use is not ethical couponing.
- There has been some controversy as to whether some of the couponers on this show are using coupons correctly. It is so important to use coupons exactly as the manufacturer intended. If you don't, the store may not get their money back and they may begin changing their coupon policies. This has been happening in some stores as a result of this show.
All I ask, is that you be realistic and not compare your weekly savings to the savings of those on this show.
I would LOVE to hear your thoughts on this too! Please leave me a comment below.
Happy Saving!
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I'm with you 100%!
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