7 Items You Should Never Buy in Bulk at Costco

We love a good bulk deal — especially when it means fewer trips to the store and a pantry that’s always stocked. But not everything at Costco is a smart buy, even when it comes in a giant box. Some things expire too fast, get wasted, or cost more than you’d expect once you break down the math. Before you load up your cart, here are seven things to think twice about buying in bulk.

1. Fresh Produce

Unless you’re cooking for a crowd (or hosting a week-long smoothie fest), most fruits and veggies just don’t last long enough. Wilted lettuce and moldy berries are a waste of money — and a bummer to toss.

2. Milk and Other Dairy

Bulk-sized milk, yogurt, or sour cream might seem like a great deal — until you hit that “best by” date. Unless your family goes through dairy fast, it’s better to stick to regular-sized portions.

3. Spices

Those giant containers of garlic powder or cinnamon? They lose flavor over time, and chances are you’ll never get through them before they go stale. A smaller jar from your grocery store might actually be a better value.

4. Baking Supplies

Flour, sugar, and baking powder are pantry staples — but they also have shelf lives. Unless you bake often, that 25-pound bag might attract more pantry moths than muffins.

5. Salad Dressing

Salad dressing might not be the first thing you worry about spoiling, but it can separate, expire, or just get boring. Who wants the same flavor for the next six months?

6. Personal Care Products

That jumbo pack of shampoo might be cheap per ounce, but you could get tired of the scent or formula. Plus, personal care items can change texture or lose effectiveness over time.

7. Snacks You Don’t Love

A 50-pack of granola bars sounds great — until you realize no one in your house actually likes them. Stick to bulk snacks your family really enjoys, or you’ll end up with a shelf full of “no thanks.”

The Bottom Line

Costco’s bulk buys can save time and money — but only if you can actually use what you bring home. When it comes to perishable or rarely used items, buying smaller might be smarter. A good deal isn’t a good deal if it ends up in the trash.