A recent article on The Consumerist website found that the TLC show Extreme Couponing has sparked a trend of out-of-control "couponers" who ransack stores with little regard for fellow shoppers. Merchants have taken notice and many are starting to change their policies, to include restrictions on buy one-get one (BOGO) couponing and limiting the number of coupons per item or product. Shopping with coupons is certainly a smart way to save, but there are right and wrong ways to do it. Here are some basic dos and dont's to help you coupon with class.

Do play by the rules. Couponing isn't too complicated and common sense should get you by in most cases. Rules vary store to store, so if you're planning to use a large amount of coupons, it helps to brush up on coupon policies before you shop. This includes making sure you're buying the item the coupon is intended for and checking to see if they'll accept expired coupons or not.

Don't clear the shelf. In the eyes of casual shoppers, clearing entire shelves of popular sale items crosses the line between couponing and hoarding. If you really want to stock up on certain products, try making multiple trips or call ahead and ask a manager if they'll set aside an order for you.

Do be organized before you check out. It's a nightmare for cashiers and people waiting in line when you hand over a haphazard pile of miscellaneous coupons. It'll be much appreciated if you clip them before hand and make sure they're all facing the same direction. Also, remember to remove coupons for products you decided not to buy - and if you're using mobile coupons, have them ready on your smartphone for the cashier to scan. 

Don't shop during the busiest times. The stress level of those waiting in line during peak times is high enough without having to wait for you to sort your coupons. Instead, go shopping when business is slow. It takes the pressure off to complete the transaction as quickly as possible for both you and the cashier.

Do be polite to the cashier and fellow customers. Sure, you might have some knowledge other customers and even clerks don't, but it's no excuse to treat others like they're beneath you. If a cashier isn't familiar with coupon policies, stay calm and ask to speak with a supervisor. They're much more helpful if you don't lose your cool. 
When your cart is overflowing, give those behind you a heads up that you'll be using coupons. If someone is waiting with just a loaf of bread and gallon of milk, let them go in front of you.

Don't steal coupons! A growing trend that has soured people and companies on couponers is theft of advertising insets from newsstand and subscriber newspapers and circulars. This is definitely not classy - and it can get you into serious legal trouble too. Many people will willingly part with their unused inserts if you ask nicely - but that's the key: ASK.