I can hear the gasps now. You’re a personal finance blogger and you’ve never used coupons? I have on occasion – but usually they’re the kind that are attached to the product you’re buying or conveniently hanging right in front of it. I’ve never actually sat down and looked the coupon books that show up in the paper from time to time.

I think partly I’m just lazy. And I’m forgetful. Even if I cut a coupon out, I won’t remember to use it. As well, there are just 2 of us. We go through stuff slowly, so a lot of coupons don’t come out when I need something, and I’m not organized enough to buy it ahead of time!

So, I don’t think I’ll ever be a master couponer, but hopefully I can start learning to save myself a few bucks here and there.

I went armed with 3 coupons today, and managed to use 2 of them.

- One was a dollar off on Crest Pro Health Mouthwash. The dentist had repeatedly reminded me I really need to start using mouthwash, so I finally bought some.

- The next one was a dollar off a “Scrunge”, which is used for cleaning ceramic stovetops. I managed to catch this on sale as well as being able to use the coupon. I’d like to claim this was due to my being awesome, but frankly, it was just a coincidence.

- The third one was a Buy One, Get One Free 2 in 1 Pantene Shampoo coupon. Couldn’t seem to find much in the way of 2 in 1 shampoo at the grocery store, so I just hung onto it and will use it at a later time (we’re not in pressing need of shampoo at the moment).

I am proud of myself for cutting out and using the coupon, but I gotta admit it’s a pain to remember to bring them, put them with the product, and make sure you pick the exact product that matches the coupon. I can’t wait til the day I can just scan these things onto my phone and then scan my phone at the checkout!

Do you coupon? How much does it help you save?