Costco, a haven for bulk-buy enthusiasts, is widely loved for its affordable prices and quality products. However, not every item that beckons from those vast aisles is a true bargain. As fellow Costco lovers, we understand that the allure of those jumbo-sized products can be irresistible.
However, we are here to gently guide your shopping cart away from some items that may not be as cost-effective as they seem. Here is a candid, empathetic, and creatively curated list of 15 items you might want to consider twice before purchasing at Costco.
Books and DVDs
While the selection can be tempting, you’ll often find much better prices on Amazon or digital platforms like Kindle or Audible for books and Netflix or Hulu for movies.
Name-brand Clothing
While finding good deals on name-brand clothes at Costco is possible, their selection is often limited and seasonal. You’re better off shopping sales at department stores or online.
Diapers
While buying in bulk may seem like a good idea, you might end up with a size your child outgrows before you’ve used them all. Consider a subscription service like Amazon Family instead.
Condiments
Due to their short shelf life after opening, buying these in bulk often leads to waste. Stick to smaller containers from your regular grocery store.
Soda
It’s generally cheaper to buy soda when it’s on sale at your local grocery store, especially during the holiday season.
Produce
Fresh fruits and vegetables at Costco can be hit-or-miss. While some items are a good deal, many are not, and the large quantities can lead to waste if you’re not careful.
Paper Products
Items like napkins, paper towels and toilet paper can often be cheaper at other stores, especially when on sale or combined with coupons.
Laundry Detergent
The vast containers seem significant, but laundry detergents lose effectiveness over time. Unless you do a lot of laundry, stick to smaller containers.
Electronics
While Costco does offer returns within 90 days on electronics, they often lack the latest models. You might find better deals and selections at electronics stores or online.
Cereal
Cereal is often cheaper at a local grocery store or Walmart, especially when combined with a sale or coupon.
Milk
It’s usually cheaper at a grocery store, and since it’s perishable, buying in bulk might not make sense for smaller households.
Spices
Spices lose their strength over time, so buying in bulk might mean cooking with less-than-potent flavors by the end of the container.
Sunscreen
Sunscreen loses its efficacy after a year, so a giant bottle isn’t a great deal if you don’t use it often or if it expires before you can use it all.
Furniture
While some people have scored good deals on furniture at Costco, the stock is often limited, and the return policy is not as generous as other items.
Snacks
While it can be tempting to buy snacks at Costco, remember that bulk-buying can lead to overeating. It’s also worth checking your local grocery store for deals on smaller packages.
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