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Shopping at warehouse stores like Costco and Sam’s Club can save you a good amount of money. In fact, Consumer Reports says that you can score savings of up to 40 to 50 percent on certain items. However, not every item is cheaper than what you’d pay at a supermarket or big-box store like WalMart.
You should also consider the shelf life of certain products when buying at warehouse stores. You may find a little better deal buying in bulk, but if the product expires or loses effectiveness by the time you use it, you may be better off buying a smaller quantity at a supermarket.
My recommendation: If your grocery store has price tags with the price per unit listed, be mindful to read and compare that price so you can make sure you’re getting the best deal possible.
Here’s a list of things you should probably not buy—plus some items we recommend buying—at warehouse clubs.
What Not To Buy
This list is primarily focused on name-brand items. Buying Kirkland (Costco) or Member’s Mark (Sam’s Club) will often provide competitive or cheaper prices.
1. Toilet Paper
It can be tempting to buy these items in bulk at Sam’s Club or Costco, but you will likely find a better deal at a grocery store. Andrea Woroch, a consumer and money-saving expert recommends to buy them on the first and third weeks of the month, when they go on sale at supermarkets.
2. Laundry Supplies
Detergent and bleach products typically lose effectiveness after about six months so buying in bulk may not be your best bet. Also, supermarkets typically have sales on these items, so you can get them for a good price. In addition, Forbes found that dryer sheets were cheaper at Target as compared to Sam’s Club.
