Put those samples to good use!

Example of sample packet

Almost every other day I am getting a small sample of some shampoo/conditioner or supplements. There is usually one problem: What am I going to do with a shampoo sample that isn't even 1oz? So I decided to come up with some interesting (and not so interesting) ways to utilize those samples without having to go out and buy the product.

HAIR SAMPLES
For those with short hair, you probably have no problem using the little sample packets that seem to grace our mailboxes too often. But if you have medium-length to long hair, it can be a nightmare trying to figure out whether to toss it or use it.

If you have several samples from the same company or even of the same product, combine them in a small shampoo/conditioner bottle. I know at one time Clear sent everyone who signed up 14 packets (7 shampoo and 7 conditioner) to use for a week. Since I don't wash my hair everyday, I decided to use only 2 shampoos and 3 conditioners for each hair washing. I even had another Clear that wasn't exactly the same product, but it worked just as well.

If you only have one of each, skip the shampoo packet (until you get another) and use your regular shampoo.  For the conditioner, use the packet to condition your scalp or ends, rinse, and then follow through with your regular conditioner.

FRAGRANCE
These samples tend to end up in a box or basket somewhere, and forgotten. But I have a great idea! Since it isn't enough to use all over, use it on special occasions only. Dab it behind your ears or on your wrists on your night out or big day at work. It doesn't go to waste and you'll smell great!

SUPPLEMENTS/FOOD/ETC
If you receive a supplement sample in the mail and aren't sure about it's healthiness, track down reviews online about the full product. You'll have a better understanding if it works or not.

Receive a melted or crush food sample in the mail? Don't toss it! Put it in the fridge until you are ready to eat it or use it in a recipe.

For freebies that you're not sure you're going to use, ask around to see if anyone can use them. More than likely, someone would LOVE to have it! In fact, you can also ask around to different organizations to see if any accept samples. You can even include them in gift/guest baskets, send them as snail mail surprises, or save them for traveling.

While you may not find a use for all of your samples and freebies, you can find uses for most of them!