Additional Coverage:
- 16 Things You Should Never Buy at Costco (financebuzz.com)
Think Before You Bulk Buy: Is Costco Always a Bargain?
Costco, the land of bulk buys and tempting deals, can sometimes trick shoppers into spending more than they save. While large families might breeze through a gallon of mayonnaise or a five-pound bag of flour, smaller households often find themselves facing expired products and wasted money. Here’s a look at some items you might want to reconsider buying in bulk at Costco:
Perishable Foods:
- Fresh Produce: Mountains of fruit and vegetables can be appealing, but unless you’re hosting a party, these items are likely to spoil before you can enjoy them. Consider buying smaller quantities of fresh produce at your local grocery store.
- Eggs: Dozens of eggs can be a recipe for waste, unless you’re planning an epic baking spree. Think realistically about your egg consumption before committing to a jumbo carton.
- Milk and Bread: These staples have a short shelf life, making bulk buying a risky proposition. Stick to smaller sizes to avoid spoilage.
Household and Personal Care Items:
- Lotion: Lotion has a limited shelf life, even unopened. A giant bottle might seem like a bargain, but it could expire before you use it all.
- Shampoo and Conditioner: While a large bottle might be economical for families sharing the same products, individuals might find smaller sizes more practical.
- Toothpaste: Toothpaste expires, and its effectiveness diminishes over time.
A bulk purchase is only recommended for large families where each member has their own tube.
Pantry Staples:
- Ground Coffee: Ground coffee goes stale quickly. Unless you’re a heavy coffee drinker, a smaller container is a better choice.
- Seasonings and Spices: Even dried spices have a shelf life. Check your spice rack regularly and avoid buying giant containers that might expire before you use them up.
- Flour, Sugar, and Cooking Oil: These pantry staples can degrade over time. Consider your usage and storage capabilities before buying in bulk.
- Condiments: Giant bottles of ketchup or mustard are great for barbecues, but impractical for everyday use.
Other Items to Consider:
- Cereal: Large boxes of cereal can go stale. Costco’s multi-packs of single-serve boxes offer variety and longer shelf life.
- Detergent: Liquid laundry and dishwasher detergents can separate and lose effectiveness over time. Smaller bottles might be a smarter choice.
Bottom Line:
Costco offers incredible deals, but it’s important to shop strategically. Consider your household’s needs and consumption habits before buying in bulk. While some items offer significant savings, others can lead to waste and ultimately cost you more.
Read More About This Story:
- 16 Things You Should Never Buy at Costco (financebuzz.com)