As a stay-at-home-mom I am always looking for ways to save money. A few months ago I started couponing and while the savings can be amazing, it takes time – time that I quite frankly didn’t have. When I need to run to the grocery store and don’t want to feel like I am over paying for things on my list, I go to the neighborhood Aldi and think you should too.

There are two Aldi stores within 10 miles from our house, both of which are relatively new and have changed my impression of the store. Aldi is a do it yourself grocery store where food items are in the boxes they ship in or on large pallets. They do not carry every item you would find in a regular grocery store, but they do carry most items. In fact, I now do the majority of my shopping at Aldi.

The produce selection varies week to week depending on what is in season. I found out that my local store gets fresh produce every other day and make sure to shop early in the day for the best variety. I love that they use produce from local farmers, in fact, one of our family friends farm sells to Aldi on a regular basis.

Aldi carries some brands that you will be familiar with, but most of their items are brands specific to Aldi. I like to try something new from Aldi every time I go. This makes each shopping trip more fun with my toddler and we have discovered new staples for our house.

Here are a few tips when you try Aldi:

Bring a quarter with you for your shopping cart – to keep costs down, you are required to put a quarter deposit for a cart, and when you are done shopping, you will get it back.

Bring your own reusable shopping bags – both paper and plastic bags are available for purchase, but why not save a little green by going green?

Take cash or plan to use your debit card – plan to spend half of what you usually spend!

Do any of you shop Aldi? If so, what item do you love? We are enjoying their version of cheeze-it crackers.