Buying in bulk can be a great way to save money on everyday items, but it's important to do it right. Stores like Costco, Sam's Club, and BJ's have a lot to offer, but you don't want to buy more than you need. The key to success is finding that delicate balance between maximizing savings and minimizing waste.
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What are the do's of buying in bulk?
Buying in bulk has a lot of advantages, and can be a great way to save. Let's take a look at some of the do's when it comes to bulk purchases.
Do buy non-perishable food items in bulk
Non-perishable food items like pasta, rice, and canned goods are ideal to buy in bulk since they're shelf-stable and last for a long time, meaning you can stock up without worrying about spoilage. Just be sure to store them properly in a cool, dry place to ensure they stay fresh.
Do buy paper goods in bulk
Paper goods like toilet paper, paper towels, and napkins are great to buy in bulk. You typically go through them at a fast rate and regularly, so it makes sense to continuously stock up as you do your bulk shopping.
Do buy Kirkland Signature and Member's Mark brands
Warehouse stores like Costco and Sam's Club have their own labels—Kirkland Signature and Member's Mark. These brands offer high-quality and great-value products compared to similar name-brand items. Be sure to read reviews and compare prices to find the best deals.
Do use freezer bags to portion items
If you come across a great deal for something perishable, don’t forget you can always portion it out in freezer bags to keep it for longer.
What are the don'ts of buying in bulk?
Despite some of these great benefits, it's not always a good idea to buy so much at once. Let's look at some of the don'ts.
Don't buy perishable food items in bulk
It often goes without saying, but we’ll mention it anyway: perishable food items like fresh produce and meat are not good items to buy in bulk. They can spoil quickly, leading to waste and even health risks. Instead, buy these items as you need them, or consider freezing them in portioned-out containers.
Don't buy too much at once
Before your bulk shopping trip, take inventory of what you already have and consider how quickly you go through each item. It's better to replenish as needed than to buy too much and end up wasting it or taking up too much space.
Don't buy everything at one store
Just because you have a warehouse membership, doesn’t mean you need to use it for everything. Always make sure you’re getting the best deal for whatever you shop for.
Don't overlook the Costco rotisserie chicken
If you’re a warehouse store shopper, chances are you’ve heard about the legendary Costco rotisserie chicken. It’s an absolute steal for the size, and brings in a lot of customers as a result. Just make sure you freeze any leftovers, so you don’t end up with any going to waste.
Conclusion
Buying in bulk is the smartest way to save money on everyday items, but it's important to do it right. If you keep the above tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to curating an efficient and cost-effective household.
If you’re in the mood for even more savings, don’t forget to install the Mulberry browser extension so you can earn rewards for purchases of everyday items and even get free product protection plans on eligible products.
