Every few months I flip open my mailbox and there it is: a postcard-sized coupon from Kohl’s.
“$10 on us!” it proclaims. Challenge accepted, I think. My aim with these mailers — commonly calledKohl’s Cash— is to shop and leave without dipping into my own funds.
Because there’s no minimum required when redeeming the coupon, if your purchase totals under $10 you can legally exit the store with new stuff and no wallet involvement.
Like other retailers that hand out coupons, Kohl’s is trying to draw customers in, where they often buy well beyond the $10 coupon on things they didn’t plan to get. And I don’t blame them — it’s an effective marketing tactic that’s worked on me more than once.
That said, nowadays when Kohl’s sends me physical mail, I knowexactlywhich departments to head to for items that’ll stay below the $10 threshold. Below is my strategy for scoring a little something I actually want, using nothing but a coupon.
Avoid the Clearance Rack
I know, it sounds counterintuitive. But Kohl’s clearance section is often pretty picked through.
And I’m not convinced it ever held a ton of great options. Clearance tends to collect the more adventurous fashion choices and lower-quality pieces. I’m not keen to spend the time digging through a lot of misses just for one possible steal.
Think Back-to-School
When it’s back-to-school season, the little ones need supplies, and Kohl’s carries plenty of those items.
For the under-$10 approach, I usually look atsmaller school supplies, such as pencil cases, lunch totes and tablet sleeves. If your child wears uniforms, you can often snag a couple of plain polo shirts for less than $10.
That said, bring your kid along and you’ll likely leave with a product featuring a beloved cartoon character. For better or worse, Kohl’s stocks everything from Minions to Minecraft — and many of those items fall under the $10 limit.
Browse theFitnessSection
Kohl’s carries a solid assortment of athletic wear from familiar labels — yes, they even have Nike.
If nothing else, you can probably use another pair of running shorts or a workout tank. I’m fairly certain my last two Kohl’s coupons ended up funding new sports bras (a little TMI, perhaps?).
Check the Jewelry Case
The jewelry department is full of options under $10 — either for yourself or as a small gift. Much of Lauren Conrad’s on-trend collection is coupon-friendly, and you’ll stumble on plenty of delicate studs and eye-catching necklaces.
Vera Wang offers more classic grown-up styles. If nothing else, a pair of simple silver posts is always a timeless choice.
Keep a Stock of Gifts
It’s handy to have a few versatile items set aside for last-minute gift needs. Kohl’s carries a decent range of scented candles, bath items and pretty scarves that are coupon-eligible.
Or grab a neutralbaby presentto have on hand. Much of the baby section is priced under $10, including small trinkets that make nice toppers for wrapped presents when you’re headed to a shower.
Look Through theBeautyProducts
A $10 coupon can be the perfect excuse to try a beauty item you’ve been curious about. I’m half-serious when I suggest experimenting with faux lashes.
On a recent Kohl’s run I noticed compact, under-$10 Bliss products (they’re also sold at Nordstrom). There were Essie polishes too. For $10 you can even pick up a couple of those adorable EOS lip balm spheres.
Swing Through Housewares
Last year I used a coupon to score a cute rag rug. They’re cheap, machine-washable and currently having a bit of a trendy moment.
Other possibilities include bathroom accessories (soap dispensers, toothbrush holders, etc.), picture frames and small decorative items for your home.
One coupon can also pick up all sorts of smallkitchen tools. Before heading out, take a peek through your kitchen drawers to see if you need a replacement whisk, spatula or wooden spoon.
Or perhaps you’ve been yearning for a novelty item that’s hard to justify, like a cherry pitter or an avocado slicer. Now’s the time to indulge that whim!
Your Turn: Will you attempt the Kohl’s coupon challenge the next time that postcard lands in your mailbox? What are your favorite department-store finds under $10?
Note: Kohl’s did not sponsor this post — probably obvious since the focus here is on how to maximize free stuff and avoid spending money in the store.
Amanda Reeves is an editor and writer based in Washington, D.C. She’s currently wearing a pair of (free) Kohl’s earrings.
