A few weeks ago, SweetMoniMons and I picked up a few of those Loblaw’s PC GREEN Shopping Bins. Today was the first day we actually got to use them and I have to say we were majorly impressed. Not only do they help to reduce the total number of plastic bags we use, but they seem to have helped in decreasing the overall annoyance level in the checkout line and with getting our groceries home. 3 of the bins held over 2 weeks worth of groceries, they fit nicely in the cart, and they were super easy to carry from the car into the house. I’m completely sold on the idea and am kicking myself for not jumping on this idea years ago.

A few tips I learned today:

1. Sort your bins appropriately – Cans and boxes in one, meats in another, and veggies their own. Keeping this in mind helps avoid the overall food crushing and bruising quotient.
2. Store the bins in the trunk of the car – We found that keeping the bins in the trunk avoids any likelyhood of forgetting them, as well, they are great for collecting “trunk junk” when not in use.
3. Don’t rely on the straps – Each bin comes with 2 straps to act as handles. I found them too awkward and it was much easier to maneuver by holding the bins at their sides.
4. Cart configuration is important – You can easily fit 5 bins on your average cart. 1 in the top compartment, 2 in the middle compartment, 1 on the rear rack, and 1 underneath (but it’ll be tight).

With that in mind, happy shopping!