When you’re at Costco, it can be enticing to buy large quantities of your favorite snack food or if you’ve decided to start a diet, you might buy that 5 lb bag of broccoli because you will definitely eat in one week, right?
While we all have good intentions and certainly warehouse stores can save you money, there are things that you should leave on the shelf. We’ve put together a list of five things you shouldn’t buy at Costco we found over at CheatSheet.
1.Name brand clothing
I’ve personally gotten many a phone call from friends, about the latest name brand clothing item you can find at Costco from Hunter Boots to Nike shorts. A lot of the designer clothing and accessories sold at outlet stores and malls is specifically made for those outlets. The same is true for Costco. “Beware that whenever you see name brand clothing or shoes at Costco, they are often made specifically for the warehouse club and are of lesser quality,” said Kyle James of Rather Be Shopping.
2.Produce
Think before you buy that large bag of apples or brussel sprouts. Will your family be able to eat all of it before it goes bad? Almost 25% of the fruits and vegetables purchased are tossed in the garbage bin, according to a study by University of Arizona researchers. Food waste ends up costing the typical American household about $590 per year..
3.Laundry Detergent
An opened bottle of detergent starts to lose its effectiveness after six months, according to Mary Marlowe Leverette, About.com’s laundry expert. If left unopened, it’s good for about nine months to a year. Bleach has about six months after the bottle is opened. It’s only a good deal if you are washing several loads of laundry a day.
4.Personal Care Products
When shopping for toothpaste, lotion, or shampoo, Costco is not exactly the place to find a deal. Most grocery stores will offer sales and if you use coupons, the savings is even greater.
5.Books
It’s tempting to buy a book as you walk by that large table. Check Amazon for better prices on new releases and don’t forget your local bookstore where you can find local interest books and authors. And if you want a book for free, check your local library listings.
On the contrary, check out these 8 items you should be buying at Costco.
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