My deep love for Aldi

Aldi is seriously on my top 5 list of happiest places. The prices, the food, the simplicity, the prices…however, I was really intimidated the first time I went in. It was probably about 5 years ago and I saw there was a good deal on milk. Going in as an amateur for just one item while others had carts full of food and were rushing past me was a lot to take in. I didn’t go back for about 6 months but ever since then it is our go-to place to grocery shop.

So for those who aren’t so sure about going in there, here are some tips and deals you may find!

1. Bring a quarter – one of the reasons their prices are so low is because none of their employees go out to the parking lot to bring carts back. You put your quarter in the cart when you get there, get your food, checkout, bring it to your car, put your cart back and get your quarter back.
2. Don’t buy all Aldi brands for prepackaged food the first time – we have found some items where we prefer the Aldi brand (pasta salad and fish) but we’ve also tried other things that we haven’t loved (coffee and waffles). Try maybe 1-2 new items per trip until you know what you and your family like.
3. Buy the cheese!!  - twice as much for less than your local grocery stores. I just bought packs of sliced cheese today with 11 slices for $1.89!
4. Produce packs – one of the great things about Aldi is that not all produce items are per pound. A lot of things are in packs so you get a much better deal (examples being 3-pack of peppers, kiwi and apples!)
5. Check out the baby section – all of our kids have loved the pureed pouches of food. Gerber and Plum Organics have them in most grocery stores but at a hefty price of around $1.80 each. Aldi has combinations of fruits and vegetables that are just as good as the name brands, are organic and only $1.29!! When you are buying 10-15 each time you visit, this adds up so quickly! They also have baby food, snacks, formula and diapers!
6. Limited time section – this section may as well be called Target because I can get into a lot of trouble in this aisle! I always take a look and sometimes I come out with an amazing deal! Our outdoor patio table, umbrella with stand, griddle, over the toilet shelf and pineapple corer have all come from this section at a great price!

The thing I’ve learned: as long as you go in prepared, Aldi is a great stop for filling your fridge and pantry with quality food for a fraction of the cost!