Making the voyage to Costco is a full-day affair for loyal Costco fans, with the promise of great prices, exciting finds, appetizing sampling (in the pre-pandemic world), and entertaining surprises. It can, however, be overwhelming: Which options should you buy, and which should you avoid, with so many possibilities accessible in large quantities? For the inside scoop on the worst items to buy at Costco, we enlisted the help of shopping and retail experts, as well as former Costco employees. These goods should be avoided unless they’ve been thoroughly considered.
Rice
Rice is one item that you should eat in significant quantities, especially if you eat it frequently. As a result, the enormous bags available at Costco aren’t a bad option in terms of quantity. The rice sold at Costco, on the other hand, is just not cost-effective. While you may receive a large quantity, rice at Costco is often up to 35 percent more expensive than rice at your local grocery shop. Rather than spending much more money on rice at Costco, it’s advisable to buy lesser quantities more frequently to keep expenses down.
Rice
Canned Foods
Your first thought for a Costco bulk purchase would be canned products. What might be the disadvantage of buying an extra-large pack if they stay fresh for nearly indefinitely? The canned goods may not spoil, but they will deplete your bank account. Canned products sold at Costco have been found to be up to 40% more expensive than those purchased at the grocery store. Furthermore, canned foods are frequently on sale at supermarkets, lowering the price even further. If you’re willing to spend a little more money to have canned goods on hand, Costco is the place to go. Save your canned food shopping for the grocery store if you want to get the most bang for your dollars.
Canned Foods
Kirkland Signature Marinara Sauce
Purchasing pasta sauce in bulk does not appear to be a bad idea if you enjoy pasta. Kirkland Signature marinara sauce, on the other hand, should be avoided. While the quantity of this sauce is sufficient, the sauce itself isn’t really good. According to a former Costco staffer, everyone knows Kirkland Signature marinara sauce is bad. Their assertions were backed up by a slew of bad online reviews, the majority of which complained the sauce was bland and tasted cheap.
Kirkland Signature Marinara Sauce
Fresh Meat
Stocking up on meat isn’t a bad idea, especially if you have freezer room for some of the large servings sold at Costco. While you will receive a huge quantity of meat on your shopping trip, you may be wasting your money. Purchasing a 60-pound case of beef from Costco appears to be the only option to save money. Aside from that, the meat is about the same price per pound as what you’d get at the supermarket. Because 60 pounds of meat is obviously excessive, it’s probably best to keep steak off your shopping list the next time you visit Costco.
Fresh Meat
Milk
Costco is well-known for selling food in large quantities. In fact, for most customers, that is the entire pleasure of buying at the business. However, before you go out and buy all of your goods at Costco, make sure you’ll be able to consume the vast quantities of food before they spoil. Unless your household drinks many glasses of milk every day, you should avoid buying this item at Costco. Most of the time, the containers are simply too large for the normal family, which means your milk may spoil before you have a chance to consume it. If half of your Costco milk spoils before you drink it, you’ve wasted a lot of money when a smaller container from another retailer would suffice.
Milk
Breakfast Cereal
Breakfast cereal from Costco frequently arrives in quantities that are too large to eat, similar to milk. Breakfast cereal, unlike milk, does not decompose, but it does grow stale and inedible with time. Unless you have the ideal storage system in place, you’ll probably end up throwing away a lot of your cereal. Plus, cereal isn’t a product that necessitates the standard Costco discount. Breakfast cereal in reasonable quantities can be found in the grocery store for around the same price as Costco’s selection. Breakfast cereals are frequently on sale at grocery stores, so you may pay less at your local store than you would at Costco.
Breakfast Cereal
Eggs
Costco should not be used to purchase eggs because very few families require large quantities of eggs. Furthermore, eggs at your local grocery shop are frequently the same price as those at Costco. While you can get eggs for 30 cents at the grocery store, you can get them for the same price at Costco, with the restriction that you must purchase two dozen or more at a time. Not only will you wind up spending more at Costco due to the big quantity you must purchase, but you will also be unlikely to consume all of the eggs before they spoil. As a result, it’s better to buy lesser quantities of eggs at your local supermarket to guarantee that your eggs are constantly fresh and not about to go bad.
Eggs
Avocados
Avocados are well-known for being extremely pricey. So, when you see a fantastic bargain on avocados in quantity at Costco, it’s tempting to buy them regardless of whether you believe you’ll consume them. Avocados, unfortunately, have a very short shelf life. If you buy in bulk, you could notice that they all ripen at the same time and become inedible rapidly. While you may have saved money at first, if half of your avocados go bad before you can eat them, you have essentially wasted your money. It’s preferable to pay the higher grocery store costs and ensure that your money is put to good use rather than being thrown away.
Avocados
Shredded Cheese
Shredded cheese is available in large, supersize quantities at Costco. They may appear appealing at first, but they aren’t the most practical purchase. Shredded cheese has a tendency to spoil quickly. Furthermore, cheese isn’t something that can be used in every meal. As a result, you might find that your cheese has gone moldy before you’ve finished the bag. If you want to get the most bang for your buck, buy smaller packs of shredded cheese from the grocery store so you know you’ll finish it before it spoils.
Shredded Cheese
Olive Oil
You probably use olive oil on a regular basis, but that doesn’t mean you should buy it in bulk from Costco. Olive oil should be consumed within six weeks of purchase, according to the University of California, Davis. This preserves the freshness of the olive oil. Unfortunately, the enormous quantities of olive oil from Costco are unlikely to be consumed in that time frame. While the olive oil is still technically edible, its freshness reduces with each passing day. To ensure that you’re always adding the freshest ingredients to your meal, get smaller amounts of olive oil from the grocer.
Olive Oil
Croissants
The size and quantity of Costco croissants aren’t the only issues. But don’t get me wrong: they’re still problems. Costco has a wide selection of baked goods, including huge croissants that come in bundles of 10 or more. The croissants themselves are enormous, and due to the vast quantity, they will certainly become stale before you can enjoy them. Costco croissants, on the other hand, are simply not that wonderful. They’re less delicious, flaky, and overall appealing because they’re mass-produced. If you truly want a croissant, get one from a local bakery rather than buying one from Costco.
Croissants
Applesauce
The quantities of applesauce sold at Costco are simply too large, even for a store that specialized in bulk products. Unless you run a daycare or have youngsters who only want to eat applesauce, the ultra-large servings sold at Costco are unlikely to be consumed. It’s preferable to get the smaller pieces of applesauce at the grocery store if you wish to introduce it into your home. Not only will you have trouble storing the vast quantities sold at Costco, but you’ll probably lose interest in applesauce long before you’ve exhausted your supply.
Applesauce
Baking Powder
Baking powder, like flour, does not have a particularly long shelf life. It doesn’t “go bad” in the classic sense of decaying or growing mold, but it does lose its effectiveness after a year. Buying baking powder in bulk at Costco is therefore frequently a waste of money. It’s doubtful that you’ll use all of the baking powder before it goes bad unless you bake every day. Then you’ll be stuck with a giant container of baking powder that doesn’t function anymore.
Baking Powder
Nuts
There appears to be widespread agreement that nuts never go bad, no matter how long they lie on the shelf. Regrettably, this is not the case. Nuts have a lot of oil in them, which can cause them to get rancid. Most nuts will only last a year on the outside, with others going rotten in as little as one month. As a result, buying Costco’s large boxes of nuts isn’t actually a good idea. It’s possible that eating all those nuts before they go bad is harmful, and letting them go bad is a waste of money. With this buy, there’s no way to win.
Nuts
Beef Jerky
Beef jerky is a tasty snack that many people prefer to keep around the house in case they are hungry. Buying beef jerky in bulk, on the other hand, goes against the advice on how to eat it. While beef jerky appears to last indefinitely, most packages recommend that it be consumed within three days of opening. You might store your jerky in the refrigerator to lengthen its shelf life. However, the jerky will only last another week or two before it turns bad. It doesn’t make sense to buy an extra-large pack from Costco because it expires so rapidly.
Beef Jerky
Muffins
If you’ve ever purchased muffins from Costco, you’ll know that they’re incredibly cheap compared to muffins from other supermarkets, especially when compared to their size! Furthermore, they are incredibly delectable! However, while these muffins are tasty and economical, they are extremely unhealthy for your health. They’re high in fat and sugar, which can raise your risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes, according to nutritionist Megan Byrd.
Muffins
Flour
Purchasing in bulk, especially for non-perishable items such as flour, appears to be a good idea, doesn’t it? However, contrary to popular belief, flour is perishable, and unless you use it frequently, a large bag of flour will spoil before you can use it. Of fact, depending on the type of flour, the flour can last anywhere from 4 to 8 months after the expiration date on the bag. It is no longer edible if it smells, tastes, or appears to have changed color. The FDA recommends keeping it in a dry, cool cabinet to preserve it for as long as possible, and if the original container is destroyed, you should transfer it to an airtight container like a countertop jar.
Flour
Ground Coffee
Because most Americans drink coffee every day, buying coffee in bulk may seem like a good idea. And, certainly, you will save money as a result of this. The issue is that once ground, coffee beans lose their flavor and potency due to exposure to air. For the greatest flavor, stick to smaller quantities of ground coffee or, better yet, grind your own beans.
Ground Coffee
Kirkland Light Beer
Beer drinkers should stick to their preferred brands, such as Guinness, Molson, Budweiser, Corona, and so on. Sure, buying the Costco brand will save you some money. Some customers claimed the beer tasted like “urine,” which they found disgusting. So it’s no surprise that Kirkland Signature Light beer was withdrawn by Costco at the end of 2018.
Kirkland Light Beer
Spices
Spices, like ground coffee, do not have an endless shelf life. Your huge jar of Italian seasoning will lose flavor with time, even if it doesn’t show indications of mold. Unless you frequently make your renowned spaghetti sauce to serve your entire Italian family, which can barely fit into your dining room, and your secret ingredient is a Kirkland mix of dry herbs, buying a smaller jar of spices for more tasty meals would be a better choice.
Spices
Soda
It’s common to buy soft drinks at the same time as the remainder of your meal. It’s much easier to toss it in with the other items in the basket. If you truly want to save money, though, look for specials elsewhere! Why? Soft drinks are one of the most popular specials in all stores, therefore big retailers won’t always give you the best deal!
Soda
Shredded Chicken
Of course, we all want to save time, but the cost isn’t always justified. The shredded chicken sold at Costco is an example of this. It’s far preferable to buy their chicken rotisserie and shred it yourself unless you’re truly in a hurry or simply want chicken breast flesh. The Rotisserie Chicken costs $2.35 per pound, while the Hand-Pulled Cooked Breast Meat is $4.57 per pound. It’ll be just as good, and you’ll save money!
Shredded Chicken
Fresh Fruits and Veggies
This is a hard one because buying your fresh fruits and vegetables in a huge supermarket can be a smart idea in some cases, especially if your family consumes a lot of them. However, you may often get greater bargains at the grocery store if you choose fruits and vegetables that are in season. Also, if you can’t eat them all before they spoil, did buying the larger piece actually save you money?
Fresh Fruits And Veggies
Salsa
Salsa and chips are a surefire way to start a party at Costco. And, judging by the size of their salsa jar, it’s evident that Costco customers don’t do things halfway when it comes to celebrating a fiesta. Should we call it a bucket? As a result, if you’re throwing a pool party for the entire neighborhood, go ahead and pick up that Costco salsa container. Otherwise, you could want to save some fridge space and money by purchasing a family-size jar from the grocery store that will supply a sufficient amount and will not spoil before you finish it.
Salsa
Condiments
Yes, sauces have a lengthy shelf life and, unlike coffee and spices, do not lose their flavor over time. However, once opened, they must be stored in the refrigerator. Have you ever considered it? Try fitting those gigantic ketchup and mustard jars in your refrigerator door, knowing that most people already have limited fridge room. That’s best of luck. We recommend skipping it unless you’re throwing a big garden party or have a Costco-sized backup fridge.
Condiments
Toothpaste
There are some items that are frequently on sale in local supermarkets. One of them is toothpaste! It doesn’t matter if you buy it in a huge format or not; what counts is the ultimate price! So, instead of stocking your bathroom with 20 bottles of toothpaste, keep an eye out for discounts that will save you more money than Costco!
Toothpaste
Bicycles
Buying his bike from Costco could be enticing. After all, what could go wrong with a bike for such a low price? Despite their good intentions, Costco personnel are not bicycle experts, and they occasionally even construct them upside down! If you want to buy a bicycle, you should go to a specialized store. You’ll spend a bit extra, but the bike will be correctly assembled and, most importantly, custom-built for you!
Bicycles
Mattresses
Many people have the idea that they don’t want to pay too much for a mattress, and hence may be enticed by ones sold at Costco, but A person spends an average of 8 hours every night in bed, therefore it’s a smart investment, don’t you think? Not only will you be able to find mattresses on sale in specialty stores that are less expensive than those sold at Costco, but you will also be able to find one that fits you well and provides the comfort you require.
Mattresses
Barbecue Grill
Summer is here, and you might be daydreaming about grilling out. Many people shop at Costco for big-ticket things like grills, but the Urban Islands 4-Burner by Bull is not one of them. This model received a lot of bad press from Consumer Reports. To begin with, it is more expensive and does not perform as well as the other grills they reviewed. “It’s particularly awful at sustaining consistent heat at high temperatures, which is essential for nicely seared steaks,” according to the research. If you’re looking for a high-quality grill for your next outdoor cookout, this model isn’t for you.
Barbecue Grill
Running Shoes
Costco frequently sells name-brand running shoes, and while they may appear to be a fantastic value, many consumers have been disappointed with the quality. The running shoe manufacturers available at Costco have their own thread on RedFlagDeals, and the majority of the comments are negative. “Some of you may think you’re getting a fantastic price by buying running shoes from Costco,” one reviewer said. You’d be completely wrong. These are Walmart-quality running sneakers, and I believe they would sell for less at Walmart.” It’s a good idea to shop around and get your running shoes from a different store.
Running Shoes
Kirkland Laundry Detergent
It might appear logical to believe that purchasing detergent in bulk is a wise decision. Yes, purchasing this discount brand in bulk will save you money. You might be surprised to hear, however, that detergent has a shelf life. According to experts, detergent loses its potency after six months after being opened. You’re generally better off skipping this buy unless you have a huge and dirty family.
Kirkland Laundry Detergent
Books
The massive book tables in the center of every Costco are tough to miss. And books aren’t eligible for the usual bulk discount. The savings don’t stack up, and you can usually get better deals online (Amazon) or during bookstore sales. You’ll also have a lot larger selection.
Books
Tissues
Most brands of tissues will suffice for a simple sneeze. When a cold strike, though, the quality of the tissues you have on hand becomes critical. Large-quantity tissues are always cost-effective, but they are rarely the best for relieving our itchy nose. It’s possible that Kirkland tissues aren’t the greatest selection for you.
Tissues
Shampoo Or Soap
Soaps and shampoos, like soft drinks, are two products that are frequently on sale in all retailers! These things should never be purchased at full price. So don’t worry about stocking up on these items in quantity; simply wait for them to go on sale at your local supermarket!
Shampoo Or Soap