11 Aldi Policies That Could Save You Hundreds This Year (If You Know About Them)

Aldi is one of the most affordable grocery stores in the U.S., with shoppers saving a collective $8.3 billion each year. If you're looking to save money at Aldi, it's helpful to understand how the store keeps its prices low. Many of its unique policies and processes are designed with savings in mind, and understanding these concepts can help you save a little more money on every shopping trip.

Here are 11 Aldi policies that can make visits to the discount grocery store even more valuable.

Aldi doesn't lean on employees to gather and return carts. By asking customers to bring a quarter with them, it encourages them to return the cart to get their quarter back. In this way, Aldi cuts costs by not having to hire as many employees and passes those savings on to customers through discounted groceries and other products.

If you're returning an Aldi food product because it's not satisfactory, you're eligible for the "Twice as Nice Guarantee." The store will refund your money and offer you a replacement, saving you the cost of the replacement.

So, if you weren't happy with your Happy Farms provolone, for example, you could return it and get a new pack, saving you $1.95.

Unlike some discount retail chains, there is no membership program that you have to join to take advantage of Aldi's lower prices. Costco, for instance, requires a membership fee. By shopping at Aldi instead, you can save an easy $65 a year.

Although it's not a requirement, the retailer encourages the use of reusable bags. Leaning into this policy can save a few dollars on every trip, as each bag costs $0.79 or $1.09. Plus, reusing bags reduces waste and is more environmentally friendly.

This is a "silent" policy because it's not advertised, but shoppers have reported savings on items that are close to their expiration date, and all you have to do is ask. Look for goods within five days of expiring and ask the cashier about a possible discount.

This also applies to seasonal items. For example, spring items could be discounted to make room for summer deals. Ask a cashier if you feel an item should be discounted.

At least 77% of Aldi's sales come from its own private label products, making it one of the most successful private label retailers alongside Trader Joe's. Buying Aldi's own Countryside Creamery butter saves $1.23 compared with Kerrygold at Walmart, while Clancy's kettle chips are $2.07 less than the premium Kettle Brand.

While Aldi doesn't advertise many bulk buys in-store, if you speak to the store manager, you may be able to arrange a bulk purchase. This offers you the direct savings you'll find at wholesalers like Costco, but also the flexibility to buy items that you don't necessarily need in bulk.

You can return most items to any Aldi store with a valid receipt. Electronics typically come with a 90-day guarantee and often include a manufacturer's warranty. There are some restrictions, though. For example, not all stores accept the return of alcohol. Just check with the local store manager.

"Aldi Finds" are limited-time deals that refresh every Wednesday. Knowing this, you can drop in early on a Wednesday before these offers sell out. You may also find some of last week's deals discounted to clear. Recent "Finds" include reading glasses for $5.99 and wireless headphones for $14.99.

Aldi is well-known for dropping prices around holidays, such as Labor Day, or for longer shopping seasons, like summer. For summer, Aldi is offering discounts of around 25% on its products, including snacks, fruits, vegetables, and grilling essentials. While Aldi estimates total savings of around $100 million, individual shoppers could save 10 cents to over a dollar per everyday item.

Even if you don't have your receipt, you can return most items for store credit. Simply return the item in its original packaging, speak with a cashier or store manager, and explain the situation. You'll be offered an Aldi Merchandise Credit gift card that matches the current price of whatever item you're returning.

These Aldi policies could help you save anywhere from a few cents to several dollars each time you shop, especially if you keep an eye out for seasonal specials and take advantage of the store's generous return policy. 

Whether you're stocking up on pantry staples or fresh produce, understanding how Aldi operates can help you save on everyday essentials without sacrificing quality.