As everyday living costs climb, a simple trip to the store can quickly become more expensive than planned. Many people need to buy essential items like period care products, which aren’t always affordable. Additionally, many states still charge taxes when consumers buy period products, which makes them even more costly. If your bank account is hurting and you’re looking for ways to save on period care products, here are a few tips.
1. Buy in bulk
Buying in bulk can be a win for your wallet if you can cover the upfront cost of a larger package of pads or tampons. Warehouse clubs like Costco and Sam’s Club sell period care essentials in bulk. But you’ll have to pay for a membership to shop there. However, you can also buy larger packages of products like tampons and pads online and at popular retailers like Target. You’ll get a better per-item price by doing this and be stocked up, so you won’t have to worry about running out of supplies anytime soon.
2. Give store-brand products a try
If you’re not set on a particular brand of products and want to reduce your spending, you may want to consider switching to only buying generic period care products. At most retailers, store-brand items are a fraction of the cost of name-brand ones. If you don’t notice much difference between store brand and name brand, there’s little reason to keep paying extra. The savings can add up quickly if you commit to this practice regularly.
3. Don’t ignore sales and other discount opportunities
When shopping for period care products, keep an eye out for sales to lower your credit card bill. Buying your favorite essentials when they’re on sale is a smart savings strategy — and if you can buy extra at a lower cost, a sale is a good time to stock up.
It can also be beneficial to look for other ways to get a discount, like clipping virtual coupons through your grocery store’s mobile app to get a better deal at checkout. Every cent you save adds up and makes a difference, so be strategic as you shop.
4. Switch to reusable period care products
If you’re willing to make a lifestyle change, you can save a significant amount of money by investing in reusable period products. Period underwear, cloth pads, and menstrual cups are some options to consider. You’ll need to spend more upfront to buy these items, but you can keep more money in your pocket over time because you won’t be purchasing disposable products every month. If you have a health savings account (HSA), you can even use these funds to pay for reusable products. Plus, you can do your part to reduce waste.
You may qualify for reimbursement for the period taxes you pay
If you live in one of the 21 states that still impose taxes on menstrual products, you may be feeling additional financial strain. But you may be able to get some money back the next time you stock up on period supplies.
The Tampon Tax Back Coalition offers reimbursement on taxes paid when buying period care products from select brands at retail stores. Reimbursement is available when buying products from the following brands: August, Cora, DIVA, Here We Flo, The Honey Pot, LOLA, Saalt, and Rael. Visit Tampontaxback.com and file a claim within 10 days of purchase to start the reimbursement process.
By taking advantage of the above tips, you can waste less money when buying menstrual products. You’re not alone if you’re looking for ways to save on all your everyday expenses. Check out our free personal finance resources for more tips.
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