Reduce waste and save money at the same time.  We’ve all felt the frustration of a large discard pile.  Product expiration dates zoom past while our focus is elsewhere.  A The Money Skinny™ truism – The most expensive products are those that are thrown in the trash.  Reducing waste can save money by stretching the repurchase interval.  Have you noticed that product accumulates at the base of a tube even when the container seems empty?  Recall The Money Skinny™ mission is to save you time and money.  Save money by using the Snip and Scoop with scissors and a mini spatula* or spoon to rescue the last few applications.

How the Snip and Scoop Works

Even when you turn a container upside down there can still be product clinging to the sides and edges.  Use scissors to cut the flat end from the tube.  Scoop the remaining product from its container.  Now you’re snipping and scooping!  A single serving or more of product can be left behind in a seemingly empty tube.

Reduce Waste with the Snip and Scoop

In the products pictured, more than two applications were waiting to be rescued. Perhaps you’re thinking a dollop of sunscreen isn’t worth ten seconds of the Snip and Scoop.  Instead, look at it this way.  Would you squeeze a sunscreen application mid-tube into the trash?  Of course not.  Then don’t put the last application in the trash with the allegedly empty tube.  Use the Snip and Scoop with pricey prescriptions and potions for even bigger savings.  Rescue every drop of expensive medication to save the most money.

Scooping Without Snipping

Residual product can also accumulate in the base of plastic and glass bottles.  Use the spatula to rescue product that the stem of a pump mechanism can’t reach.  It’s easiest to tip the bottle at an angle between the side and base.  Let remaining product accumulate.  Then scoop!

Take a Breather Strategy to Reduce Waste

Give yourself time to evaluate the effectiveness of products.  Stretch the repurchase interval even further past empty.  Is the product something you really need and use?  Is there another brand or version you’d like to try?  The longer you wait to repurchase, the further the replacement product’s expiration date is in the future.  The Take a Breather Strategy to reduce waste gives you time to decide if the product is worth repurchasing.

*Where to Buy the Mini Spatula

The mini spatula pictured is available at Walmart and The Container Store. They are sold in a two-pack for about $10.  The spatula’s long flexible handle is perfect for scooping hard to reach corners.  The mini spatula more than pays for itself in rescued product.