How to Get Free Samples You Can Actually Use and Save Money
How to Get Free Samples You Can Actually Use and Save Money
Who doesn’t love freebies? But the trick isn’t just getting any free samples—it’s about finding ones you’ll actually benefit from and use in your everyday life. Whether it’s skincare, household essentials, or snacks, getting products without paying for them can save you money while introducing you to items you may not have tried otherwise. The best part? You don’t have to purchase anything to get started.
Here’s how you can score useful, quality free samples and make them part of your routine without breaking the bank.
1. Sign Up for Free Sample Sites
There are dedicated websites where companies offer free samples of their latest products. Some of the best and most reliable sites include:
SampleSource: This site offers free sample packs seasonally. You choose the samples you want from a selection of household, personal care, and food items, making sure you’re getting things you’ll actually use.
PINCHme: By creating a profile and answering a few questions about your preferences, PINCHme will match you with free samples that fit your lifestyle. However, my personal experience with PINCHme has changed since I first signed up. The website and format are different now, and how you earn a free sample box has also changed. You have to answer a long survey about the product and then wait for approval. Additionally, you need to earn points by playing games and answering questions about the free products you apply for. Just a heads-up: there are quite a few ads and ad-related questions throughout the survey, so be sure to read them carefully and click “no” before moving to the next question.
If you're interested, I have a referral link you can sign up through https://pinchme.com/signup?refCode=V8T1I86K!
The key to maximizing these sites is staying active and checking them regularly so you don’t miss out on limited-time offers.
2. Follow Brands on Social Media
Companies often give away free products or samples to promote new releases or build brand awareness. Following your favorite brands on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter can give you early access to sample giveaways or exclusive promotions.
Pro tip: Engage with their posts by liking, sharing, or commenting—some companies reward active followers with special giveaways or contests where you can win free products.
3. Subscribe to Newsletters
Many brands offer free samples when you subscribe to their email newsletters. This is a great way to get household items, beauty samples, or even food products that you can use in your daily life. Some brands offer welcome gifts just for signing up, which often include travel-size products or coupons for full-size items.
For example, companies like Sephora and Ulta frequently offer samples when you subscribe to their newsletters or join their rewards programs.
4. Leverage Loyalty Programs
Signing up for loyalty programs is another easy way to get your hands on useful free samples. Many companies, particularly in the beauty and grocery sectors, offer members exclusive free products, gifts with purchase, or early access to sample-sized items.
For instance, Sephora’s Beauty Insider program and Ulta’s Ultamate Rewards program offer free samples and full-size birthday gifts. You don’t have to spend to enjoy these perks!
5. Write Honest Product Reviews
Many websites and companies will send you free samples in exchange for honest reviews. Influenster is a popular platform where users can receive free products (often full-sized!) in exchange for writing detailed reviews. The more you engage, the more you’re likely to receive high-quality samples that fit your needs.
6. Request Samples Directly from Companies
Sometimes, the best way to get free samples is to go directly to the source. Many companies are willing to send samples if you simply ask! Head to the contact page of your favorite brands and send a friendly message requesting a sample of their product. Often, they’ll be happy to oblige, especially if you're a new customer who’s interested in trying their offerings.
7. Check Out Online Communities
Freebie communities are a treasure trove of sample opportunities. Websites like Reddit (check out r/freebies) or Facebook groups often share limited-time deals, sample giveaways, and promo codes that can help you snag free products. These communities are full of savvy users who are quick to share new offers they’ve found.
8. Use Freebie Apps
There are apps designed to help you find free samples, discounts, and deals on everyday products. Shopkick and Fetch Rewards are examples of apps that reward you for simple tasks like scanning barcodes or uploading receipts, which can eventually lead to free gift cards, products, or samples you’ll actually use.
9. Try Subscription Box Trials
Many subscription box services offer free trials or heavily discounted first boxes packed with sample-size (and sometimes full-size) products. Boxes like FabFitFun or Ipsy offer trials where you can try new products for a fraction of the price, and you can cancel anytime after receiving your free or discounted box.
10. Test Before You Buy
When you’re considering a product but don’t want to commit to buying a full size, many stores will provide samples upon request. Skincare and makeup counters at retailers like Sephora or department stores often offer samples of high-end products. This gives you a chance to test them out before making a purchase, ensuring you’re only spending money on items you know will work for you.
Bonus Tip: My Experience with Social Nature
I’ve also tried Social Nature and have an account with them. They’ve sent me free samples and mostly mailed coupons for free items. When you create an account, it’s essential to read the details, as some products require upfront payment with reimbursement upon providing receipt proof. I always select the free products to avoid any unexpected costs.
Keep in mind that when you receive coupons in the mail for free products, you’ll need to pay the tax, as the coupon only covers the price of the item. Social Nature has a variety of free coupon products available, although the selection can vary based on the season and time. Right now, for example, I have tons of free products to choose from! If you’re interested in checking it out, you can click on this link to sign up https://www.socialnature.com/friend-referral/?referrer=friend-1003054-c2aa9dad-link.
Final Thoughts: Make Free Samples Work for You
By strategically using these methods, you can bring home useful products and samples that fit seamlessly into your day-to-day life. From trying out a new moisturizer to stocking up on household essentials, free samples can help you save money and discover products that work for you—all without spending a dime.
So why not get started today?
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