The System

So, it's long overdue, and I feel it's also anti-climactic, but I'm going to explain my system of coupon organization. I try to stay on top of cutting coupons we receive in the Sunday paper (mainly), so that the whole process is more manageable. I also find it therapeutic, as well as good 'busy work' for when I'm watching TV.
Here's how I separate the coupons:
I have 3 accordion-style holders—1: fresh and frozen foods/items; 2: dry foods (canned, boxed, condiments, etc); and 3: non-foods, such as meds, cleaners, and paper products.
Here are the categories:
(1)
produce (salad, dried fruits), eggs, cold juices
meats and sides, such as country crock, bob evans, etc
dairy (cheese, yogurt, milk, pillsbury, etc)
frozen meals, vegetables, pizza, meats, sides
frozen desserts, baked items (rolls, garlic bread), ice cream, etc

(2)
breakfast (cereals, oatmeal, etc)
baking and sweets (sugar, olive oil, chocolate, etc)
snacks and shelved drinks (chips, granola bars, nuts, bottled drinks, etc)
canned (soups, sauces, peanut butter, tuna, etc)
condiments and spices
boxed and bagged (carbs!: pasta, dried potatoes, helper meals, etc)

(3)
hygiene (razors, dental, feminine, deo, etc)
hair
body wash/soaps and lotion
medicines (vitamins, band-aids, etc)
cleaning (including laundry)
paper, pet, potpourri (batteries, clothing, household items, etc)

I keep each of these sections organized, so all soups are together, all snack bars, etc. Each of the three files also has one empty section at the front; I use these for soon-to-expire coupons, ones I don't have time to file, and/or ones I intend to use during my next shopping trip.

It's a good idea to check these for expired coupons when filing new ones, ideally every week, so you don't miss out on a coupon you really want to take advantage of. I try not to cut things we don't tend to use, unless I plan to pass on those coupons to someone I know who does. If you're not sure of something, you're bound to start noticing want expires over and over without being used. I also endeavor to let our needs dictate the coupons, rather than the opposite.

I think that's enough for now, but I'd welcome any questions as to where I put any particular type of coupon, or suggestions for improvement. It's not perfect, but it tends to work rather well for me. The good thing about having separate accordions is that I can bring whichever one(s) are appropriate for the trip, but I also have a small bag that holds them nicely, in addition to our entertainment book!

That's all for now deal-seekers, stay tuned!