Costco Shoppers Reveal 6 Best and 6 Worst Products to Buy

Shopping at Costco can be a great way to save money, but not everything in the store is a good deal. With so many bulk-sized products, it is easy to assume that everything offers great value. However, some items are worth every penny, while others can end up being a waste of money. Quality, price, and practicality all play a role in whether something is a smart buy or a regretful purchase. Experienced Costco shoppers have figured out which products consistently deliver and which ones fall short. Before your next trip, check out these must-buy and must-avoid products to get the best value for your money.

Must Buy: Kirkland Signature Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Kirkland Signature Extra Virgin Olive Oil is a kitchen essential for home cooks who want quality at a great price. It has a smooth, rich flavor that works well for everything from sautéing to making salad dressings. Many shoppers say it rivals more expensive brands, making it a fantastic value. The large bottle ensures you always have some on hand, and it lasts a long time when stored properly. It is also certified for authenticity, meaning you are getting real extra virgin olive oil. If you cook often and want premium quality without a high price tag, this is a must-buy at Costco.

Must Avoid: Fresh Produce

Buying fresh produce at Costco may seem like a great deal, but many shoppers find it to be a mistake. Since everything is sold in bulk, it is hard to use up fruits and vegetables before they go bad. Items like berries, lettuce, and cucumbers often spoil quickly, leading to food waste. Unless you are feeding a large family or meal-prepping in big batches, the savings may not be worth it. Some customers also say that the quality is inconsistent, with certain fruits being underripe while others are overripe. For fresh produce, it is often better to buy smaller portions at a local grocery store or farmers market.

Must Buy: Kirkland Signature Parmigiano Reggiano

Costco’s Kirkland Signature Parmigiano Reggiano is a favorite among cheese lovers for its rich and nutty flavor. This authentic Italian cheese is aged for 24 months, giving it a deep, complex taste perfect for grating over pasta or enjoying on its own. Many shoppers say it is a steal compared to prices at specialty stores. Because it is a hard cheese, it lasts a long time in the fridge when properly stored. Whether you use it for cooking or snacking, it is a great investment for anyone who loves high-quality cheese. If you want premium Italian Parmigiano at a reasonable price, this is a must-buy.

Must Avoid: Bulk Spices

Buying spices in bulk may seem like a good idea, but Costco-sized containers can be a waste. Spices lose their potency over time, and most people will not use up such large quantities before they start to fade. If you do not cook with a specific spice regularly, you might end up throwing away stale seasonings. Many shoppers find that it is better to buy smaller amounts at a regular grocery store for fresher flavor. While some staple spices like salt or pepper might be worth buying in bulk, others, like cinnamon or paprika, will likely go bad before you finish them. For the best flavor in your meals, stick to smaller spice containers.

Must Buy: Kirkland Signature Mixed Nuts

If you are looking for a healthy and satisfying snack, Kirkland Signature Mixed Nuts are a fantastic option. The blend usually includes high-quality cashews, almonds, pecans, and macadamia nuts, all lightly salted for great flavor. Costco’s price is much better than what you would pay for smaller cans at regular grocery stores. Many shoppers also like that this mix does not have a lot of cheap fillers like peanuts. The large container ensures you will have plenty to enjoy, whether for snacking, baking, or adding to salads. If you love nuts and want a good deal, this is one of Costco’s best buys.

Must Avoid: Bulk Bread

Costco sells large quantities of bread, but unless you have a big family, it can be tough to use it all before it goes bad. Many shoppers say that bulk bread loaves start to get stale or moldy before they can finish them. While freezing is an option, not everyone wants to deal with defrosting slices every time they need bread. The savings also do not always make sense if you end up wasting part of the loaf. Some customers also find that the texture of Costco’s bread is not as fresh as what you get at a local bakery. If you do not eat a lot of bread quickly, it is probably better to buy smaller loaves elsewhere.

Must Buy: Kirkland Kitchen Trash Bags

Kirkland Kitchen Trash Bags are a favorite among Costco shoppers because they are durable and affordable. Many users praise their strength, saying they rarely tear, even with heavy loads. The drawstring closure makes them easy to tie and remove from the trash can without a mess. Compared to name-brand options, Kirkland’s version offers more bags per roll at a lower price. Shoppers also appreciate that these bags fit most standard kitchen trash cans without slipping. If you want reliable, budget-friendly trash bags, this is one Costco item worth stocking up on.

Must Avoid: Avocados From Peru

Costco shoppers have mixed feelings about avocados, and many say the ones from Peru are not worth buying. The biggest complaint is that they tend to be rock-hard when purchased but quickly turn brown before fully ripening. Some customers also report that the texture is stringy and not as creamy as avocados from Mexico or California. Even when they do ripen properly, they often have an odd, watery taste. Since avocados can be expensive, many shoppers feel that this is a gamble not worth taking. If you love avocados, it may be better to buy them elsewhere or choose a different variety.

Must Buy: Cento San Marzano Tomatoes

Cento San Marzano Tomatoes are a Costco must-buy for anyone who loves cooking with high-quality ingredients. These tomatoes are grown in Italy and are known for their rich, slightly sweet flavor that makes sauces taste incredible. Many home chefs swear by them for homemade pasta sauce, pizza, and soups. Unlike standard canned tomatoes, San Marzano tomatoes have fewer seeds and a smooth texture that blends easily. Buying them at Costco is also a great deal since they are much cheaper per can than at regular grocery stores. If you enjoy cooking Italian dishes, these are a pantry essential.

Must Avoid: Desserts

Costco is famous for its massive bakery section, but some shoppers say the desserts are not the best buy. Many of the cakes, cookies, and pastries are loaded with sugar and artificial flavors, making them taste overly sweet. Some shoppers also feel that the quality has gone downhill over the years, with many items tasting dry or overly processed. The large portion sizes are great for parties, but for smaller households, the desserts often go stale before they can be finished. While some people still love the Costco bakery, others suggest skipping it in favor of homemade treats or smaller bakery options. If you are looking for high-quality desserts, it might be best to shop elsewhere.

Must Buy: Bird Seed

Costco’s bird seed is a fantastic deal for backyard bird lovers. The large bags offer a great value compared to pet stores, and the quality is high enough to attract a variety of birds. Many shoppers say that the mix is clean and free from excessive fillers like millet, which many birds ignore. Buying in bulk also means you will not run out as quickly, especially if you have multiple feeders. If you enjoy watching birds in your yard, this is one of the best Costco purchases you can make. It is a great way to keep your feathered visitors happy without spending a fortune.

Must Avoid: Kirkland Dishwasher Pods

While Kirkland products are usually a hit, many shoppers agree that the dishwasher pods are a disappointment. The most common complaint is that they do not dissolve properly, leaving behind a soapy residue on dishes. Some people also find that they do not clean as effectively as other brands, often leaving behind spots and food particles. While they are cheaper than name-brand alternatives, many users feel they are not worth the savings if they require rewashing dishes. Several shoppers have switched back to Finish or Cascade after trying Kirkland’s version. If you want spotless dishes without hassle, this is one Costco product best left on the shelf.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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