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Here at the local news desk, we’ve got a soft spot for a good Costco run. From the legendary Kirkland sheet cakes to those massive jugs of maple syrup, some store-brand items are simply household heroes. They’re convenient, they’re wallet-friendly, and they just work.
But let’s be real, not every Kirkland-branded item is a slam dunk. In the quest for everyday savings, some goods might have you thinking twice – or even three times – before tossing them into your oversized cart. Sometimes, a quick trip to a local grocery store or even splurging a few extra cents on a name brand is the wiser move.
So, grab your shopping list and a pen (or maybe just your phone), because we’re diving into 14 Kirkland-brand items that might be better left on the shelf at Costco.
1. Protein Bars
Kirkland’s protein bars tend to be a real mixed bag in the taste and texture department. If you’ve ever found yourself staring down a half-eaten box that’s been slowly dwindling for two years (we’re not judging, it happens!), you know the drill.
Many find them incredibly dense, overly chewy, and sporting an aftertaste that just… lingers. If you’re after something more palatable, other brands might offer a more enjoyable experience in similarly generous quantities.
2. Diapers
When it comes to baby essentials, Kirkland diapers often spark quite the debate among local parents. While some praise their convenience and overall quality, a surprising number of moms report that these diapers can cause skin rashes for their little ones.
Beyond the potential for irritation, they might not even be your cheapest option. While they often beat out big names like Huggies or Pampers, you can frequently find better per-unit deals on store-brand diapers at other major retailers.
3. Nut Bars
You might want to skip the Kirkland nut bars. While some reviewers find the taste “okay,” a common complaint is the unfortunate gastrointestinal distress they can cause.
One particularly memorable comment involved an eater having to “learn a yoga pose” to cope – yikes! Our own taste test found them rather uninspiring.
They weren’t bad, but they certainly weren’t a memorable or pleasurable snack experience. Perhaps a different granola bar would be a tastier, and less anatomically challenging, choice.
4. Laundry Detergent
If you’ve ever wondered what a “mystifyingly bad” laundry detergent smells, feels, or performs like, then a jug of Kirkland Signature Laundry Detergent might offer a unique lesson. While many Kirkland products inspire a healthy debate, the store’s laundry suds seem to unite shoppers in a chorus of “steer clear!” Reviews frequently mention skin rashes, machine issues (think endless suds requiring extra rinses), and a general inability to actually get clothes clean.
5. Bath Tissue
Toilet paper seems like it should be an easy win for bulk savings, right? Not always.
In a side-by-side comparison with other store brands, Kirkland bath tissue often shows no significant per-unit price difference compared to competitors. Quality-wise, reviews are split: some find it too thin and linty, while others are loyal fans who appreciate the bulk, comfort, and durability.
It seems your personal preference might be the deciding factor here.
6. Olive Oil and Cooking Oil
Unless you’re running a bustling restaurant kitchen, lugging home a gallon-sized jug of olive oil might not be the savvy move you think it is. While bottled oil can last a couple of years unopened, once that seal is broken, you’re looking at a shelf life of just 30 to 60 days before it starts to go stale or even rancid.
There’s no point in buying “discounted” stale oil. For most households, a smaller bottle ensures freshness and better flavor for your cooking.
7. Batteries
Those giant packs of AAA batteries might seem like a smart investment, but many shoppers advise caution with Kirkland Signature batteries. Common complaints include issues with battery leakage and a shorter-than-expected lifespan. You might find more reliable power sources elsewhere.
8. Dishwasher Soap
If you thought all dishwasher soaps were created equal, prepare for a surprise. Numerous Costco customers report that Kirkland Signature Dishwasher Pacs often don’t dissolve properly or release their cleaning power during a cycle.
And if they do, they sometimes leave behind a “horrible residue.” The good news?
If you brave the Kirkland brand and find yourself with streaky dishes, you can typically return them for a full refund.
9. Bread and Pastries
Unless you’re planning a massive brunch or feeding a small army of carb enthusiasts, you might want to bypass the bulk bread and pastries. These items, often sold in multi-packs, can go stale quickly. Plus, you might find better per-unit prices and more manageable quantities at your local supermarket.
10. Canned Produce
As reporters of a certain age, we admit a slight bias against fruits and vegetables swimming in brine or sugary syrup. Fresh produce simply tastes better, and Costco actually offers plenty of non-canned options that are both affordable and free of added sodium or preservatives. If canned goods are a must-have for you, your local grocery store often provides better prices when buying individual cans or smaller packs.
11. Frozen Pizza
Okay, let’s talk pizza. Costco’s food court pepperoni slices?
Absolute perfection, a true masterpiece worthy of a Michelin star. Our team has been known to make a special trip just for that culinary delight.
So, naturally, the Kirkland-brand frozen pepperoni pizza seemed like a no-brainer for home. Same brand, same pizza, right?
Wrong. The frozen version is a different beast entirely – imagine sugar-laced tomato sauce on a cardboard crust, two sizes too thin.
Don’t fall for it.
12. Rotisserie Chicken
Costco’s legendary $4.99 rotisserie chicken is a magnet, drawing in crowds (and inspiring a certain competitive edge among shoppers vying for the last bird). That “too good to be true” price tag, however, comes with a hidden cost. Costco reportedly loses money on these chickens to drive foot traffic, but to minimize those losses, the birds are often raised in conditions that animal welfare groups and even some shareholders have called out as “horrifically inhumane,” alleging neglect and cruelty.
13. Seasonings
Much like cooking oil, those giant jars of Kirkland spices and seasonings might not be the pantry powerhouse you imagine. Spices, especially ground ones, lose their flavor potency over time.
While whole spices can last for years, ground spices can start to fade after just six months. Unless you’re a culinary wizard whipping up feasts daily, a smaller jar ensures you’re using fresh, flavorful spices, even if the per-gram price is a tad higher.
14. Caseloads of Anything New and Shiny
Costco is a treasure trove of exciting, often unexpected finds. But resist the urge to buy a caseload of something new and untested!
If you’ve always wanted to try cold brew coffee, don’t commit to a 30-pack before knowing if you actually like it. Grab a single can or a four-pack at your local grocery store first.
Your Costco membership can be valuable in many other ways, like snagging deals on your tried-and-true favorites.
Bottom Line
Shopping at Costco can be an adventure, offering the thrill of scoring incredible per-unit prices on bulk items. But to truly maximize your savings and avoid buyer’s remorse, it pays to be strategic. Steer clear of buying quantities so large that perishable ingredients spoil before you can use them, and be discerning about products that just don’t measure up to the competition.
Go into Costco with a solid list of what you truly need, rather than an open mind to grab “whatever looks good.” Trust us, that’s how you end up with a hallway closet overflowing with plastic tubs of frosted animal crackers and cheese puffs.
Smart Money Moves for Everyone
No matter your financial situation, there’s always an opportunity to fine-tune your budget and improve your financial health. Here’s a quick checklist of things you can consider today:
- Tackle Debt: High-interest debt can be a major roadblock to financial progress. Beyond cutting back on spending, explore options like balance transfer credit cards or credit counseling services to help you pay it down faster.
- Boost Your Income: If your finances feel tight, finding ways to earn extra cash can provide much-needed breathing room. Whether it’s a new full-time job or a part-time side hustle, a little extra can make a big difference.
- Trim Expenses: While it might sound daunting, cutting expenses doesn’t have to be painful. Start by looking at your biggest outgoing costs, as that’s where you’ll likely find the most significant savings.
For example, with auto insurance rates on the rise, shopping around for a new provider could be a quick win for your wallet. If you’re planning a vacation, researching the right travel credit card could help offset some of those travel costs.