I just started this. We all have our things that we buy a lot of...some shoes, some clothes, etc. I am a 'cooler', yes as in insulated lunchbox, queen.

I have one for every occasion. But trying to implement more of a simple, frugal life, I decided if I 'had' to have something, I was going to get rid of two or more similar items before I purchased it.

I bought a 'lunchbox' system for ds's lunch next year for when he's a kindergardener. It basically is a tupperware type box with an ice pack in the middle and two small compartments on top, one large one for a sandwich, etc. on the bottom. This will stop me from having to use foil, baggies, wax paper and other things to add to the trash. Plus he will be at school where they don't recycle.

However, the one 'cooler' that we had that would fit it (in order for him to carry it, the lunchbox system didn't have a bag to go with it) is My favorite color and ds would prefer red. He doesn't ask for much so I figured why not. But I am giving FIVE other coolers away to charity in it's place.

I am going to try this with other things too before I buy something new.

We do the same thing with toys...otherwise they can take over your house.

One in...two out...

Keeps things very managable.

I think this is a great idea. Hopefully I won't implement it too much as I am trying not to buy anything! But I will definitely use this idea from now on. It will definitely help cut down on the clutter too. And curb impulse purchases because I'll have to ask myself Is it really worth getting rid of 2 things at home? Great tip!

We could easily do this too. The toys are taking over our entire house now with 2 boys. This technique would really cut down and make me think about what toys we really need.