Free Samples Part I: Getting Your Share of the Freebie Bonanza

I can remember as a child, free samples randomly came through the mailbox a few times a year. Everyone in the neighborhood got one and the samples didn't come often. You might also be able to grab a doughnut hole if the bakery at the grocery story was giving away samples.

Boy, how things have changed! I love getting free samples and, thanks to online sites and manufacturers, I can try out virtually every product before I buy it. This week alone, I received 12 samples through the mailbox. These included Knorr's side dishes, a couple of shampoo samples, some aquafresh tooth brushes and even a good-sized bag of Iam's cat food. By spending only 10-15 minutes online each day, you'll begin receiving samples, tool. Going to the mailbox will no longer be a drudge of gathering bills, but actually seeing what small gifts that have been left.

With just a few clicks, you'll mail carrier will bring everything to your mailbox...shampoo, toothpaste, food, etc. I've received bathrobes, underwear and even printer cartridges by signing up for free samples. Here's the information most freebie offers request: name, address, e-mail. Sometimes, they ask for a phone number but it's usually optional. In ten years of being a freebie-addict, I've never been spammed by a freebie company.

Begin your sampling hobby, by registering at the Web sites of manufacturers whos products you use regularly. Proctor and Gamble, along with all their subsidiaries like Olay, Crest, etc., have a place for consumers to sign up to receive news and product samples. You may just get the samples from that initial registration. Later on, the company might send you an e-mail announcing new products and giving subscribers the opportunity to request samples.