13 Costco Items That Employees Say Are Not Worth Buying

Costco is known for offering incredible deals on bulk items, but not everything in the warehouse is worth buying. While the store provides great value on many essentials, some products do not live up to the hype. Even with Costco’s excellent return policy, nobody wants to deal with the hassle of buying something they will regret. Knowing which products to avoid can help shoppers make the most of their membership and stick to the best bargains.

Condiments

Costco sells condiments in massive bottles, but they are not always worth it. Once opened, items like ketchup, mayonnaise, and mustard have a limited shelf life. If you do not use them frequently, they may expire before you get through the bottle. Some customers have also noticed that bulk condiments taste slightly different than their regular-sized counterparts. Unless you go through large amounts quickly, buying a smaller bottle elsewhere might be more practical. You will save money in the long run by avoiding waste.

Keurig Coffee Machine

Many Costco employees agree that the Keurig coffee machine is not the best deal. While it seems like a convenient option, the price is often higher than what you can find at other retailers. Keurig machines also have a reputation for breaking down quickly, especially if they are not descaled regularly. The cost of K-Cups adds up fast, making this an expensive way to enjoy coffee. On top of that, the coffee quality is not great compared to traditional brewing methods. If you want better value, a standard drip coffee maker or an espresso machine might be a smarter choice.

Fresh Produce

Buying fresh produce in bulk at Costco seems like a great deal, but many employees warn against it. The large quantities can be too much for small households, leading to waste. Fruits and vegetables have a limited shelf life, and many customers find they spoil before they can be eaten. While the prices may be lower per unit, throwing away unused produce defeats the purpose. Unless you are feeding a big family or meal-prepping in bulk, smaller portions from a grocery store may be a smarter choice. It is better to buy what you can use before it goes bad.

Bakery Items

Costco’s bakery section is full of tempting breads, cakes, and pastries, but employees say they are not always a good buy. The oversized portions can be a problem unless you have a big family or plan to freeze leftovers. Many customers find themselves tossing out half-eaten cakes or stale bread. While the prices are reasonable, the waste adds up quickly if you cannot finish the product in time. For those who prefer smaller quantities and fresher options, a local bakery or grocery store might be a better choice. It is best to consider how much you will actually eat before grabbing that giant cake.

Dyson Vacuums

Dyson vacuums have a premium price tag, but Costco employees say they are not always worth it. While they offer strong suction, they also have a reputation for clogging and needing frequent maintenance. Some models have battery issues, with run times shorter than expected. Many customers find that less expensive brands, like Shark or Bissell, perform just as well. Costco’s return policy is great, but dealing with a pricey vacuum that underperforms can still be frustrating. Unless you get a deep discount, this might not be the best place to buy a Dyson.

Diapers

Bulk diapers might seem like a smart purchase, but they are not always the best deal. Babies grow quickly, and you may end up with extra diapers that no longer fit. Some parents also find that Costco’s diaper brands do not perform as well as other well-known brands. Additionally, online stores often have better deals with subscription discounts that lower the overall cost. If you are stocking up, it is worth comparing prices before making a big purchase. It is better to buy what you need rather than risk having leftovers in the wrong size.

Anti-Kink Garden Hose

The anti-kink garden hose at Costco might seem like a solid purchase, but employees warn against it. These hoses often kink just as much as regular ones, defeating the purpose entirely. They also tend to be heavier and harder to maneuver, making yard work more frustrating. Some customers report that they start leaking after just a few uses. Since there are better options at hardware stores for the same price, this is not a great buy. A higher-quality rubber hose from a specialty store will likely last much longer.

Ground Coffee

Buying ground coffee in bulk may seem like a good idea, but freshness is a major issue. Ground coffee starts losing its flavor and aroma as soon as the bag is opened. If you do not go through coffee quickly, you might end up with a stale-tasting brew. Many coffee lovers prefer buying whole beans in smaller amounts and grinding them fresh. This way, you get the best possible flavor with every cup. If you value quality, consider purchasing fresh beans instead of a giant tub of pre-ground coffee.

Blood Pressure Cuff

Costco sells blood pressure cuffs, but employees say they are not always reliable. Many customers return them because the readings can be inconsistent or inaccurate. Medical professionals recommend getting a high-quality monitor from a pharmacy or medical supply store instead. A poorly calibrated cuff could lead to incorrect readings, which is a serious issue for anyone monitoring their health. While the price at Costco may seem like a deal, it is not worth the risk if the product is not dependable. If you need to track your blood pressure regularly, investing in a trusted brand is a smarter move.

Name-Brand Clothing

Costco sells name-brand clothing at discounted prices, but employees say it may not always be the best buy. Some brands manufacture lower-quality versions of their products specifically for warehouse stores. This means you might not be getting the same materials or craftsmanship as the retail version. While the deals look great, some customers have noticed that items wear out faster than expected. If you are looking for long-lasting pieces, it might be worth shopping at a store known for high-quality apparel. Checking fabric details and reviews can help you make a smarter purchase.

Books and DVDs

Costco carries books and DVDs, but the selection is limited, and the prices are not always the best. Many employees say that customers can find better deals online or at discount bookstores. The warehouse only stocks popular titles, so you might not find exactly what you are looking for. Additionally, with the rise of streaming services and e-books, physical copies are becoming less of a necessity. If you are looking for variety or better pricing, shopping elsewhere might be a better option. Unless you find a rare bargain, you might be paying more than you need to.

Wine and Beer

Costco is known for bulk deals, but its wine and beer selection does not always impress employees. Some brands are marked up higher than local liquor stores, making them less of a bargain. The Kirkland brand wines can be hit or miss, with some bottles tasting average at best. Certain craft beers may be fresher when bought directly from a brewery or a specialty shop. While some customers find good deals, others say the selection lacks variety. If you are picky about your drinks, shopping elsewhere might be a better option.

Soda

Buying soda in bulk from Costco might not be the best way to save money. Many grocery stores offer frequent sales and promotions on soda that beat Costco’s prices. Additionally, keeping large packs of soda around may lead to unnecessary consumption. Some customers also mention that certain bulk sodas taste slightly off compared to the same brands from other retailers. If you do not drink soda often, a smaller pack from a local store may be a better choice. It is always a good idea to compare prices before committing to a bulk purchase.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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