Menards is a popular home improvement store in the Midwest known for its wide variety of products at competitive prices. They often have lower prices than Home Depot and Lowe’s by 10-20%, but some shoppers feel the quality of their products/brands is lacking in comparison. But just because they have low prices doesn’t mean there aren’t opportunities to save even more. To that end, here are 15 ways to maximize your savings at Menards.

1. Leverage the 11% Rebate Program

One of Menards’ most popular promotions is the 11% rebate program, which can be a significant money saver if used wisely.

This program is available almost every week and applies to nearly everything in the store.

When you make a purchase during this period, you receive a rebate form to mail in along with your receipts.

After a few weeks, you’ll get a merchandise credit check that you can use for future purchases.

Tips for Maximizing the 11% Rebate:

– Plan Ahead: Keep an eye on Menards’ advertising to know when the 11% rebate is coming. Timing your big purchases during this period can lead to substantial savings.

– Submit Rebates Promptly: Don’t forget to mail in your rebate forms promptly to avoid missing out on the rebate. Keeping track of your rebate submissions using a spreadsheet can be helpful.

– Combine with Sales: Try to combine the 11% rebate with in-store sales for even greater savings. This way, you benefit from both the sale price and the rebate.

PRO TIP

Keep in mind that sale prices are OFTEN better than the 11% rebate. So, if you can’t combine the discount, do the quick math to figure out which promotion saves you the most money.

 2. Sign Up for the Menards BIG Card

The Menards BIG Card offers a range of benefits, making it a valuable tool for regular shoppers.

With the card, you can earn a 2% rebate on all Menards purchases, which accumulates and is issued as a merchandise credit check.

Additional Benefits:

– Special Financing: Cardholders often have access to special financing offers, such as 0% interest for six months on purchases over a certain amount. This can be particularly useful for large projects.

– Exclusive Offers: Menards occasionally sends exclusive offers and discounts to BIG Card holders, providing additional opportunities for savings.

See Also: 7 Out-Of-The-Box Hacks to Save at Home Depot

3. Check Out the Menards Weekly Ad

Every week, Menards publishes an ad that features special deals and discounts on a wide variety of products.

Reviewing the weekly ad before shopping can help you identify the best deals and plan your purchases accordingly.

How to Use the Weekly Ad:

– Make a Shopping List: Based on the weekly ad, make a list of items you need that are on sale. This can help you avoid impulse purchases and stick to your budget.

– Compare Prices: Use the weekly ad to compare prices with other retailers. Menards’ price match policy can then help you get the best deal.

4. Buy in Bulk

Buying in bulk is a classic strategy for saving money, and Menards offers bulk pricing on many items.

This approach is particularly useful for products you use frequently or that have a long shelf life, such as building materials, cleaning supplies, and hardware.

Bulk Buying Tips:

– Calculate Unit Prices: Always check the unit price to ensure that buying in bulk is actually cheaper. Sometimes, smaller packages on sale can be more cost-effective.

– Storage Solutions: Make sure you have adequate storage space for bulk items. Consider organizing your garage or basement to accommodate larger quantities.

5. Shop Clearance Sections

Clearance sections are a treasure trove of savings, and Menards has clearance areas both in-store and online.

These sections feature overstock, discontinued items, and returned merchandise, often at significantly reduced prices.

Finding the Best Clearance Deals:

– Frequent Visits: Clearance items change regularly, so frequent visits can increase your chances of finding great deals.

– Check Online: Menards’ website has a clearance section where you can filter by category and price, making it easier to find the items you need.

PRO TIP

Ask employees in each department about specific clearance products they might have, especially ones that aren’t on the sales floor. From this Reddit thread, an employee gave this example, “I know my store has a couple of discontinued shower doors for $5 each. It’s not public anywhere, so I recommend them to guests to save money and get them out. But the employees should know what clearance stuff they have in their department.”

6. Utilize Menards’ Price Adjustment Policy

Menards offers a price adjustment policy, which means if you buy an item and it goes on sale within 14 days, you can get a refund for the price difference.

This policy ensures that you don’t miss out on savings if prices drop shortly after your purchase.

How to Take Advantage:

– Keep Receipts: Always keep your receipts for at least two weeks after your purchase. This way, you can easily request a price adjustment if needed.

– Monitor Prices: Regularly check the prices of the items you’ve purchased. Set reminders to check prices a week after buying big-ticket items.

See Also: Insider Tips to Save On Your Next Shopping Trip to Lowe’s

7. Use Manufacturer Coupons

Menards accepts manufacturer coupons, which can be combined with in-store sales and Menards rebates for additional savings.

Tips for Using Coupons:

– Search Online: Look for manufacturer coupons on websites like Coupons.com, RetailMeNot, and the manufacturers’ own websites.

– Check Product Packaging: Many products have coupons on or inside the packaging, so keep an eye out when you’re shopping.

8. Join the Menards e-Rebate Program

Menards’ e-Rebate program allows you to submit your rebate forms online, which is faster and more convenient than mailing them in.

This program also lets you track the status of your rebate submissions.

Benefits of e-Rebate:

– Faster Processing: Submitting rebates online can speed up the processing time, so you get your merchandise credit check sooner.

– Tracking: The e-Rebate program allows you to see the status of your rebate, giving you peace of mind that your submission was received and processed.

9. Follow Menards on Social Media

Menards frequently posts about upcoming sales, special promotions, and exclusive discounts on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest.

Following them ensures you stay informed about the latest deals and exclusive promotions.

How to Benefit:

– Exclusive Deals: Sometimes Menards offers special discounts only available to their social media followers.

– Timely Updates: Get immediate updates about flash sales and limited-time offers that you might miss otherwise.

See Also: Lowe’s Outlet Stores: Locations, Prices, and Products Within

10. Take Advantage of Menards’ Price Match Policy

Menards will match the price of any identical item sold by a competitor, provided you can show proof of the lower price.

This ensures you get the best possible deal without having to shop around at different stores.

Price Match Tips:

– Bring Proof: When you find a lower price, bring a printed ad or show the price on your phone to a Menards associate.

– Know the Policy: Familiarize yourself with Menards’ price match policy, including any exclusions, to ensure you qualify for the price match.

11. Shop During Seasonal Sales

Menards has major sales events during holidays like Memorial Day, Labor Day, and Black Friday.

Plan your purchases around these times to take advantage of significant discounts.

Planning for Seasonal Sales:

– Create a Wishlist: Keep a list of items you want to buy and check their prices during these sales events.

– Set a Budget: Decide how much you’re willing to spend and stick to your budget to avoid overspending during big sales.

12. Buy Discounted Gift Cards

Websites like Raise.com and Cardpool.com often sell Menards gift cards at a discount.

Buying these gift cards can provide instant savings on your purchases.

Tips for Buying Discounted Gift Cards:

– Use Reputable Sources: Stick to well-known gift card resale websites to avoid scams.

– Combine with Sales: Use your discounted gift cards during sales events for even greater savings.

13. Check Out the Special Buy of the Day

Menards offers a “Special Buy of the Day” both in-store and online, featuring deeply discounted items for one day only.

These deals can be an excellent way to save on products you need, but quantities are often limited, so act fast.

How to Use Special Buys:

– Check Daily: Make it a habit to check the Special Buy of the Day regularly to catch great deals.

– Act Quickly: If you see something you need, buy it immediately as quantities are limited and deals change daily.

14. Look for Mail-In Rebates on Appliances

Many large appliances at Menards come with mail-in rebates that can save you a significant amount of money.

Check the product descriptions and in-store signage to see if any appliances you’re considering have available rebates.

Appliance Savings Tips:

– Combine with Sales: Purchase appliances during sales events and apply for the mail-in rebates for maximum savings.

– Read the Fine Print: Ensure you understand the rebate terms and conditions, including the submission deadline and required documentation.

15. Attend Menards’ In-Store Workshops

Menards occasionally hosts free in-store workshops on home improvement topics.

These workshops not only provide valuable DIY knowledge but sometimes offer exclusive discounts to attendees.

Workshop Benefits:

– Learn New Skills: Gain practical knowledge and skills for your home improvement projects.

– Exclusive Discounts: Take advantage of special discounts offered to workshop participants.

Ask the Reader: How do you save money at Menards? Let me know your tips and tricks in the comments and I’ll add them to the article.

By Kyle James

Saving money on groceries is a priority for many households, and ALDI has earned a reputation for offering high-quality products at lower prices. With a few strategic tips, you can maximize your savings at ALDI and stretch your grocery budget even FURTHER. Here’s some very practical advice for making the most out of your next shopping trip to your local ALDI.

1. Plan Your Meals and Make a Shopping List

One of the best ways to save money on groceries is to plan your meals for the week.

By deciding in advance what you’ll cook, you can create a precise shopping list and AVOID impulse buys.

Before heading to ALDI, take inventory of what you already have at home.

Plan your meals around items you already own and make a list of what you need to buy.

Stick to this list while shopping to avoid unnecessary purchases.

2. Use ALDI’s Weekly Ads and Specials

ALDI offers weekly ads that highlight their current specials and deals.

These ads can be found online or in-store. Reviewing these ads before you shop can help you take advantage of the best deals.

ALDI also has special “Aldi Finds,” which are limited-time offers on a variety of items, from food to household goods.

Planning your shopping trip around these specials can lead to significant savings.

See Also: The Best Stuff to Buy at ALDI to Maximize Your Savings

POTENTIAL SAVINGS AT ALDI?

When buying essentials like vegetables, canned goods, pasta, dairy, and eggs you can expect to save 10-15% compared to a store like Walmart. Just go check out the store if you haven’t, you’ll be AMAZED with their low prices. The one item where you won’t save very much is on meats.

3. Buy ALDI’s Private Label Brands

One of ALDI’s biggest cost-saving strategies is their extensive range of private label brands.

These brands are often just as good, if not better, than their name-brand counterparts but come at a fraction of the cost.

Some popular ALDI brands include:

– Simply Nature: Organic and non-GMO products.

– liveGfree: Gluten-free products.

– Never Any!: Meat products free from antibiotics, added hormones, and animal by-products.

– Little Journey: Baby essentials like diapers, formula, and baby food.

– Specially Selected: Gourmet and specialty items.

4. Bring Your Own Bags

ALDI encourages eco-friendly practices by requiring customers to bring their own bags.

If you forget, you can purchase bags at the store, but this adds to your total cost.

Bringing reusable bags not only saves you money but also helps reduce plastic waste.

5. Use a Quarter for the Cart

At ALDI, you’ll need a quarter to unlock a shopping cart.

This system helps keep costs down by ensuring carts are returned properly and not left scattered around the parking lot.

When you return your cart, you get your quarter back. Remember to bring a quarter with you to avoid any inconvenience.

6. Take Advantage of ALDI’s Return Policy

ALDI has a generous return policy called the “Twice as Nice Guarantee.”

If you’re not satisfied with a product, ALDI will replace it and refund your money.

This policy applies to most items except for non-food ALDI Finds, alcohol, and national brands.

This guarantee ensures you can shop with confidence, knowing that your satisfaction is a priority.

PRO TIP

Beware of the “treats” trap. From this Reddit thread, “I spend more money on “treats” at Aldi then I do elsewhere because they are cheaper, but I end up getting more.” This is an easy trap to fall into thinking you’re saving money but end up spending more in the long run.

7. Shop ALDI Finds Early

ALDI Finds are special items that are available for a limited time and in limited quantities.

These can range from seasonal food items to home goods, and they often sell out quickly.

To get the best selection and take advantage of these deals, shop early in the week and early in the day.

See Also: Clever Tricks to Save Big at the Grocery Store

8. Compare Prices Per Unit

When shopping at ALDI, pay attention to the unit prices listed on the shelf tags.

This information allows you to compare the cost per ounce, pound, or item, helping you identify the best deals.

Sometimes, larger packages may seem like a better deal, but the unit price can reveal otherwise.

9. Stock Up on Non-Perishables During Sales

When you find a great deal on non-perishable items, consider stocking up.

Products like pasta, rice, canned goods, and household items can be stored for long periods and purchased in bulk when prices are low.

This strategy can help you save money in the long run and reduce the number of shopping trips you need to make.

10. Utilize ALDI’s App

The ALDI app is a valuable tool for saving money.

It provides access to weekly ads, special deals, and the latest ALDI Finds.

You can also create a digital shopping list within the app to keep track of what you need.

Additionally, the app sometimes features exclusive digital coupons and offers that can help you save even more.

11. Shop Seasonal Produce

ALDI offers a variety of fresh produce, and buying what’s in season can save you money.

Seasonal fruits and vegetables are often cheaper and fresher than out-of-season options.

For example, buy berries and corn in the summer, apples and pumpkins in the fall, and root vegetables like carrots and potatoes in the winter.

“Time Saver” Factor

For many ALDI shoppers the time savings is a HUGE positive. It’s very easy to be in and & out of ALDI with a full cart is less than 30 minutes. If you’re a fan of less choice, and don’t need to pick between 6 brands of things like flour, eggs, pasta, and cheese you’ll love ALDI.

12. Check the Clearance Section

Most ALDI stores have a clearance section where you can find deeply discounted items.

These are often products that are nearing their expiration date or seasonal items that need to be cleared out.

Checking this section can lead to significant savings on groceries and household goods.

13. Avoid Pre-Packaged Convenience Foods

While pre-packaged convenience foods can save time, they are often more expensive than buying ingredients separately and making meals from scratch.

Cooking from scratch can be more cost-effective and healthier.

Look for basic ingredients at ALDI and make your own snacks, meals, and baked goods.

14. Buy in Bulk Wisely

Some items are more cost-effective when bought in bulk.

ALDI offers a variety of bulk items, but it’s important to ensure you’ll use them before they expire.

Non-perishable items like toilet paper, paper towels, and certain dry goods are good candidates for bulk buying.

15. Compare Prices with Other Stores

While ALDI is known for its low prices, it’s always a good idea to compare prices with other local grocery stores.

Sometimes, other stores may have sales or promotions that make certain items cheaper.

Use price comparison apps or check weekly ads from other stores to ensure you’re getting the best deals.

16. Use Cash to Limit Spending

One way to avoid overspending is to shop with cash.

Decide on a budget before you go shopping and bring only that amount in cash.

This method can help you stick to your budget and make more mindful purchasing decisions.

17. Take Advantage of Special Buy Weeks

ALDI periodically has “Special Buy” weeks where they offer themed products at discounted prices.

These weeks might focus on international foods, kitchen gadgets, or other unique items.

Keep an eye out for these special events to score great deals on items you wouldn’t normally find at ALDI.

See Also: The Cheapest Grocery Stores in Your Neck-of-the-Woods

18. Buy Store Brands Over National Brands

ALDI carries some national brands, but their store brands are usually cheaper and of comparable quality.

Whenever possible, opt for the store brand to save money.

The quality is often just as good, and you’ll be spending less on your overall grocery bill.

19. Plan Your Shopping Around ALDI’s Restocking Schedule

ALDI typically restocks their shelves on Wednesdays, which is also when their weekly ads start.

Shopping on this day can give you first access to the freshest produce and the best deals.

Check with your local ALDI to confirm their restocking schedule.

See Also: Shop on the Right Day…12 Tips on Store Markdown Days

20. Shop Alone

Shopping with family or friends can sometimes lead to unplanned purchases.

To avoid this, consider shopping alone so you can stay focused on your list and budget.

This can help you make more mindful decisions and avoid impulse buys.

21. Learn to Love ALDI’s Weekly Themes

ALDI often rotates themes for their special buys, such as Italian week, German week, or Asian week.

Embrace these themes and plan your meals around the featured products.

This can add variety to your meals and allow you to try new items at discounted prices.

22. Check for Digital Coupons and Rebates

While ALDI doesn’t typically offer coupons, they occasionally have digital coupons or rebates available through their app or website.

Check for these offers before you shop, as they can provide additional savings on already low prices.

See Also: Hate Clipping Coupons? Smart Ways to Save Without Clipping

23. Make Use of Freezer-Friendly Foods

Many of ALDI’s products are freezer-friendly, allowing you to buy in bulk and store for future use.

Items like meats, bread, vegetables, and even certain fruits can be frozen to extend their shelf life.

This strategy helps you take advantage of sales and reduce waste.

24. Avoid Shopping When Hungry

It’s a well-known tip, but it’s worth repeating: never shop on an empty stomach.

Shopping when you’re hungry can lead to impulse buys, especially of higher-priced snack items.

Eat a meal or snack before heading to ALDI to help you stick to your list and budget.

Ask the Reader: How do you save money when shopping at ALDI? Let me know what tip or trick I may have missed.

By Kyle James

While Costco is known for its value and variety, many savvy shoppers might not be aware of an even more lucrative avenue for savings: Costco liquidation stores. These hidden gems offer an incredible range of products at significantly reduced prices, many of which were originally Costco returns. In this guide, we will delve into what Costco liquidation stores are, how to find them, the types of products and brands they carry, and the potential savings you can reap.

What Exactly Are Costco Liquidation Stores?

Costco liquidation stores are outlets that sell products Costco could NOT sell in their main stores.

These items can include overstock, returned goods, discontinued products, or seasonal items.

While these products are no longer sold at regular Costco warehouses, they are still available at liquidation stores at drastically reduced prices.

PRO TIP: COSTCO RETURN POLICY LEADS TO GREAT LIQUIDATIONS

Because Costco takes back everything, they send a ton of products to liquidation. For consumers this is a good thing as these Costco return stores are filled to the brim with good deals. I’ve seen nice pot and pan sets that appeared to maybe be used one time, furniture that appeared brand new, and even food items like protein bars and snack items. All being sold at 50% – 90% off the original Costco price.

How to Find Costco Liquidation Stores

Finding a Costco liquidation store isn’t as straightforward as locating a regular Costco warehouse, but with a bit of research, you can uncover these treasure troves.

Here are a few strategies to help you find them:

1. Online Search: Start with a simple online search for “Costco liquidation stores near me” or “Costco surplus stores”. This can help you identify any nearby outlets.

2. Liquidation Marketplaces: Websites like Liquidation.com and B-Stock Solutions often list Costco liquidation auctions. These platforms sell bulk lots of Costco merchandise to both businesses and individual consumers.

PRO TIP: GET SOCIAL & ASK COSTCO EMPLOYEES

The best way to find a Costco liquidation store is to ask an employee at your local Costco warehouse. They often have information on where excess inventory and returns are sent or if there are any affiliated liquidation stores in the area.

3. Social Media and Forums: Platforms like Facebook, Reddit, and local community forums can be valuable resources. Join groups or discussions focused on discount shopping or liquidation deals where members often share tips and locations.

4. Local Retail Listings: Check local business directories and retail listings for surplus or liquidation stores in your area. These stores might not always advertise their connection to Costco explicitly, so keep an eye out for descriptions like “discount retail” or “warehouse outlet.”

See Also: How to Find Amazon Liquidation Stores and Save a BOAT Load of Money

What Store Names Should You Look For?

When looking for these stores in your neck-of-the-woods, ANY store name that include the words “liquidation”, “bins”, “surplus”, or “wholesale outlet” is a great place to start.

To give you an idea, here are some actual names of Costco liquidation stores:

– Bargain Bins

– STORE NAME “Wholesale Outlet”

– Overstock Outlet US

– Falling Prices

– Liquidation Depot

– Last Chance

– Oliver’s Liquidation Discount Store

Can You Find These Store Online Too?

Yes.

In recent years, online Costco liquidation stores have been popping up and they provide some great values, especially if you’re looking to buy in bulk and want resell the items for a profit.

Here are a few to check out:

 B-Stock Solutions

Select Liquidations

Direct Liquidations

Products and Brands You Can Find

Costco liquidation stores carry a vast array of products, reflecting the diversity of items sold in regular Costco warehouses.

Here’s a breakdown of the types of products and brands you can expect to find:

Electronics

– Televisions: High-end brands like Samsung, LG, and Vizio.

– Computers and Accessories: Laptops, monitors, and peripherals from brands such as HP, Dell, and Logitech.

– Smart Home Devices: Items like smart speakers, security cameras, and home automation products from brands like Google, Amazon, and Nest.

Home Goods

– Furniture: Sofas, dining sets, and bedroom furniture from brands like Sealy, La-Z-Boy, and Thomasville.

– Appliances: Kitchen appliances such as blenders, coffee makers, and microwaves from brands like KitchenAid, Ninja, and Cuisinart.

– Home Décor: Rugs, lighting fixtures, and decorative items.

Clothing and Accessories

– Apparel: Casual and formal wear for men, women, and children from brands like Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger, and Levi’s.

– Shoes: Footwear from brands like Nike, Adidas, and Skechers.

– Accessories: Bags, hats, and jewelry.

See Also: What’s a Target Salvage Store? (PLUS How to Find One Near You)

Groceries and Consumables

– Non-perishables: Canned goods, cereals, snacks, and beverages.

– Household Items: Cleaning supplies, paper products, and personal care items.

Seasonal Items

– Holiday Decorations: Christmas trees, lights, and Halloween costumes.

– Outdoor Gear: BBQ grills, patio furniture, and garden tools.

How Much Savings Can You Get?

The primary allure of Costco liquidation stores is the potential for substantial savings.

Here’s an overview of how much you can expect to save on different categories of products:

Electronics

Electronics can often be found at 20-50% off retail prices. This includes items like televisions, laptops, and smart home devices.

The discounts can be even steeper during clearance events or special promotions.

Home Goods

Furniture and appliances are typically marked down by 30-60%. Given the high-ticket nature of these items, the savings can be significant.

For instance, a $1,000 sofa might be available for $500 or less.

Clothing and Accessories

Apparel and accessories can be discounted by 40-70%.

This makes it possible to score designer jeans, branded shirts, and stylish footwear at a fraction of their original cost.

Groceries and Consumables

Savings on groceries and consumables can vary, but you can generally expect discounts of 10-30%.

While this might not seem as dramatic as other categories, the savings add up over time, especially for bulk purchases.

Seasonal Items

Seasonal items often see the BIGGEST discounts, ranging from 50-80%.

This is because retailers aim to clear out these items quickly once the relevant season or holiday has passed.

See Also: 12 Legit Reasons Why Some Shoppers Hate Costco Wholesale

6 Tips for Shopping at Costco Liquidation Stores:

To maximize your savings and ensure a successful shopping experience at Costco liquidation stores, consider the following tips:

1. Inspect Items Carefully: Since some items may be returns or slightly damaged, always inspect them for any defects or issues.

Check electronics for functionality and examine furniture for any visible wear and tear.

2. Check Return Policies: Liquidation stores often have different return policies compared to regular retail stores, and are often FINAL SALE.

Make sure you understand the store’s policy before making a purchase, especially for high-value items.

3. Visit Frequently: Inventory at liquidation stores changes frequently.

To catch the best deals, visit regularly and keep an eye on new arrivals.

4. Be Flexible: You might not always find exactly what you’re looking for.

Be open to alternative brands or slightly different models to take advantage of the best deals.

5. Bulk Buying: If the store allows, consider buying in bulk.

This can lead to even greater savings, especially for non-perishable items and household goods.

6. Haggle: In some liquidation stores, prices might be negotiable.

Don’t hesitate to ask for a better deal, particularly if you’re buying multiple items or high-value products.

Ask the Reader: Have you found a Costco liquidation store near you? If so, how were you able to locate it…word of mouth, Google search, or something else? Let me know!

By Kyle James