Costco Shopping? Think Twice About These 14 Items

Additional Coverage:

14 Items That Aren’t Really Worth the Trip to Costco (financebuzz.com)

Shop Smart, Not Hard: What NOT to Grab on Your Next Costco Run

We all love a good deal, and warehouse clubs like Costco often come to mind when we’re looking to pinch pennies. While a trip to the big box store can certainly save you some cash in the long run, it’s not always a golden ticket to savings, especially if you’re not careful about what lands in your cart.

Before you roll that giant red cart through the aisles, here’s a local journalist’s guide to what might be better left on the shelf at Costco.

1. Fresh Fruits and Vegetables

Buying produce in bulk might seem like a healthy and economical choice, but those enormous bags of apples or bananas can turn into a rotten deal faster than you can say “smoothie.” Unless you’re feeding a small army, you might find yourself tossing more than you eat. Stick to your local farmers’ market or grocery store for smaller, fresher quantities.

2. Tempting Baked Goods

Those jumbo muffins and buttery croissants are calling your name, but resist the urge! Like their produce counterparts, bulk baked goods have a short shelf life. Unless you plan on having a serious bake sale (or an even more serious sugar rush), you’ll likely be dealing with stale pastries before you’ve made a dent.

3. Condiments (Unless You’re Throwing a Party)

Sure, that giant jar of mayonnaise seems like a steal, but how quickly do you really go through it? While sealed condiments can last for ages, once opened, the clock starts ticking. Unless you’re hosting a massive summer barbecue or a graduation bash, smaller bottles from your regular grocery store are probably a smarter buy.

4. Diapers

This one might surprise new parents. While buying diapers in bulk offers convenience, the per-diaper cost at Costco isn’t always the cheapest.

Plus, babies grow at lightning speed, and you could end up with a mountain of unused diapers in the wrong size. Compare prices with local stores and online retailers before stocking up.

5. Coffee

Coffee aficionados know that the rich aroma and flavor of coffee start to fade shortly after grinding. That enormous tub of pre-ground coffee from Costco might not deliver the morning jolt you’re hoping for after a few weeks. If you’re a true coffee lover and want to save at Costco, consider buying whole beans and grinding them at home.

6. Toilet Paper

It’s a household staple, and buying it in bulk feels like a win. However, on a per-roll basis, you might find better deals at your local grocery store. Furthermore, some shoppers and even consumer reports have noted that Costco’s Kirkland Signature brand toilet paper might not always stand up to its name-brand competitors in terms of quality.

7. Mattresses

You spend a significant portion of your life in bed, so a good mattress is crucial. But Costco might not be your best bet.

Their selection is often limited, and you won’t get the in-store experience of trying out different firmness levels. Local mattress stores often have a wider variety, competitive pricing (especially during sales – and let’s be honest, they always have a sale!), and knowledgeable staff.

8. Soda

Believe it or not, your local grocery store often has better deals on soda, especially when they run sales on beverages. You might end up paying more per can at Costco, and your selection will likely be much more limited than at a regular supermarket.

9. Spices

Spices can lose their potency and flavor faster than you might realize. That enormous container of cinnamon might seem like a good investment, but if you don’t use it regularly, you’ll be left with flavorless powder. Smaller containers from your grocery store will ensure your dishes are always vibrant and delicious.

10. Something New and Untried

Spotted an intriguing new snack or an exotic ingredient on the Costco shelf? Unless you’re prepared to commit to a massive quantity, it’s probably best to leave it for another day.

Experimenting with new foods in bulk can lead to wasted money if it turns out you’re not a fan. (Though, to their credit, Costco does have a very generous return policy!)

11. Books

If you’re hunting for a specific bestseller or a niche title, Costco’s book selection will likely disappoint. Their offerings are generally limited to popular releases and seasonal items, particularly during the holidays. For a wider selection and often better prices, head to your local independent bookstore or an online retailer.

12. Deli Meat

Once opened, deli meat has a notoriously short shelf life. Unless you’re planning a massive sandwich feast, buying large quantities from Costco often leads to wasted food and money. Opt for smaller portions from your local grocery store or butcher for everyday use.

13. Flour

You might think flour lasts forever, but it doesn’t! Even sealed, it can attract moisture and lose its freshness.

White flour typically lasts about a year, while whole wheat or almond flour has an even shorter lifespan of a few months. Unless you’re a professional baker, those bulk bags of flour will likely expire before you use them up.

14. An Executive Membership (For Some)

Costco’s Executive membership ($130/year) offers a 2% annual reward, a step up from the basic Gold Star membership ($65/year). To truly break even on that extra $65, you’d need to spend at least $3,250 annually at Costco.

For large families or those making significant home improvement purchases, it can be worthwhile. But for many, the cashback incentive simply won’t justify the increased cost.

The Bottom Line

Costco can be a fantastic resource for certain items, especially when buying in bulk makes sense. However, it’s crucial to be a savvy shopper.

Always compare unit prices with other retailers, and be mindful of the shelf life of perishable goods. A little planning can go a long way in ensuring you’re truly getting the most bang for your buck on your next Costco expedition.