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I am notorious for purchasing more supplies than I need for a project leaving me to return unused items.

A project in our home gets approached differently depending on who’s doing the project.

Overestimating Items

Projects done by me are over planned. I desire to save time from running out for another piece of poster board or extra screws because I underestimated the supplies needed to finish the project.

With all the necessary or possible pieces gathered, I can finish the project and then return the unused items when it fits within my errand schedule.

Underestimating Items

Where I overestimate, my hubby underestimates. Either we are running to get more supplies or the project remains half done until we get to the store. However, we are not left with lots of extra supplies when the project is complete.

Planning to Return Unused Items

Though there are pros and cons to both approaches, I have developed a system that helps me return unused items. If I know I will not use the remaining supplies for any upcoming projects, then I choose to return them to the store. I do not need more stuff coming into our home when I can get reimbursed for those unused items.

My system may not work for you, but having this plan helps me get those items to the store before they clutter our home:

1. Finish the project.
2. Gather the remaining unused items.
3. Sort those items by the store where purchased.
4. Get the receipts.
5. Add those items with the receipt to a plastic bag.
6. Place the bags in the front seat of our van.

Then when I am running around town and have a few minutes to spare near one of those stores, I stop in and return those items for a refund. By keeping the supplies with the receipt, I have everything together when the opportunity presents itself.

Whether you overestimate or underestimate on your projects, return unused items purchased to keep clutter at bay while stretching your dollars. Without making a special trip to return the items, you can continue stretching your dollars at the gas station while using time wisely. Happy returning!

Question: What plan do you use when needing to return unused items?