Grocery stores are convenient, but not always cheap. Some products carry a steep markup you don’t notice until the receipt stings. The truth is, there are plenty of items not to buy at the grocery store aisles if you want real savings.
Instead, knowing where to shop smarter, whether it’s dollar stores, warehouse clubs, or online deals, keeps your budget in check.
15 Items Not to Buy at the Grocery Store
Some everyday products look harmless in your cart, but they’re budget busters. Here’s what to skip and buy elsewhere.
1. Batteries
Batteries are a classic trap. Grocery stores often mark them up heavily because you grab them in a rush. You’ll almost always find batteries cheaper at dollar stores or big-box retailers, especially in larger packs.
2. Cleaning Supplies
From dish soap to surface sprays, cleaning products tend to carry a grocery markup. Buying in bulk at warehouse clubs or discount stores means savings that slash the cost per ounce.
For more items to buy in bulk, check out 10 Everyday Products That Are Way Cheaper in Bulk.
3. Paper Products
Toilet paper, paper towels, and tissues may be easy to toss into the cart, but they’re rarely a bargain. You’ll get paper products better at warehouse clubs. You get bigger packs, lower per-unit costs, and fewer last-minute runs.
For more perspective, explore Are Warehouse Clubs Really Worth It? Breaking Down the Math.
4. Over-the-Counter Medicine
Pain relievers, bandages, and cold medicine often cost more in grocery aisles. Pharmacies, drugstores, and online retailers almost always beat those overpriced grocery items.
5. Pet Supplies
Pet food and cat litter at grocery stores can drain your wallet fast. Instead, pet stores and online subscriptions often deliver bulk discounts and fresher inventory.
6. Kitchen Gadgets
Spatulas, measuring cups, and basic tools may tempt you in the household aisle. But these household items to avoid buying at grocery store usually come at a higher price and lower quality. Discount home stores are the better bet.
7. Laundry Detergent
Like cleaning products, laundry detergents are cheaper in bulk. Buying them at grocery stores often means paying more for smaller bottles.
8. Spices and Baking Ingredients
Spices are some of the worst grocery store markup items. A tiny jar of cinnamon can cost double compared to buying bulk or online. Specialty shops or warehouse clubs win here.
9. Light Bulbs
A four-pack at the grocery store often costs what a ten-pack would at a hardware or warehouse club. Stock up elsewhere.
10. Snacks in Small Packs
Single-serve chips and cookies add up fast. Buying multipacks at warehouse clubs gives you way more for your money.
11. School and Office Supplies
Notebooks, pens, and tape are things you should never buy at the supermarket. Discount retailers or back-to-school sales beat grocery prices every time.
12. Alcohol
Beer and wine at grocery stores often carry heavy markups compared to liquor stores or warehouse clubs that specialize in volume discounts.
13. Gift Cards
Many shoppers grab gift cards at checkout. But warehouse clubs sell them at a discount, often $80 for $100 in credit.
14. Prepared Foods
Pre-cut fruit and pre-made deli meals are convenient, but you pay for it. Buying whole and prepping at home cuts the cost.
15. Greeting Cards
Three to five dollars for a card? That adds up. Dollar stores or online printables deliver the same sentiment for a fraction of the cost.
Smarter Shopping Strategies
The grocery aisle isn’t always your friend. Many of these products are cheaper at warehouse clubs or discount stores once you compare unit prices. To really stretch your budget, it’s about timing too. See The Best Times of Year to Buy Everything for when deals hit their lowest.
Finally, don’t overlook impulse buys. Stores design endcaps and checkout lanes to lure you into overspending. A smart list and sticking to it keep those sneaky markups from draining your wallet.
Final Verdict
When it comes to items not to buy at the grocery store, the rule is simple: convenience costs extra. From batteries to paper goods, many everyday essentials are cheaper in bulk, at dollar stores, or online.
Knowing where to buy household essentials cheaper puts money back in your pocket without giving up what you need.
