Costco Items I’ll Never Buy Again (and What I Grab Instead)

Costco is a haven for bulk buyers and deal seekers, but not every product on its shelves is a must-have. Through trial and error, I’ve discovered some items that just don’t live up to the hype or value. Here’s a list of eight Costco items I’ll steer clear of, and what I prefer to buy instead.

Rotisserie Chicken

Costco’s rotisserie chicken is famous for its affordability and convenience, but the taste often leaves much to be desired. While it’s undeniably juicy, the flavor can be bland and overly salty. After several attempts to spice it up at home with herbs and spices, I found that the time and effort just weren’t worth it.

Now, I opt for a whole chicken from the fresh meat section. It allows me to season it to my liking and roast it at home. Not only does this result in a tastier meal, but it also fills my kitchen with a wonderful aroma. Plus, I have more control over the ingredients, ensuring a healthier dish.

Pre-Packaged Salad Kits

Pre-packaged salad kits from Costco might seem like a quick and easy meal solution, but they often come with a downside. The greens can be less fresh, and the included dressings and toppings are usually high in sodium and preservatives. I’ve had several experiences where the greens were wilting before the kit’s expiration date.

Instead, I purchase individual ingredients like fresh lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and avocados. This approach allows for fresher salads that can be customized to taste. I also make my own dressings at home, which are healthier and more flavorful.

Kirkland Signature Laundry Detergent

While Kirkland Signature products generally offer great value, their laundry detergent just doesn’t make the grade for me. I’ve noticed that it doesn’t remove stains as effectively as other brands, and the scent can be overpowering. Clothes sometimes come out of the wash with a residue that irritates my skin.

I’ve switched to Tide or Seventh Generation detergents, which I find more reliable for stain removal and gentler on the skin. They might be pricier, but the results are worth the extra cost, especially when buying them on sale or using coupons.

Bulk Spices

Buying spices in bulk at Costco seems like a money-saver until you consider the shelf life. Spices lose their potency over time, and unless you’re cooking for a large family, it’s challenging to use them up before they start to lose flavor. I’ve ended up throwing away expired spices more often than I’d like.

Now, I purchase smaller quantities of spices from local grocery stores or specialty spice shops. This ensures that my spices are always fresh and flavorful, enhancing my dishes significantly. The slight increase in cost is offset by the improved taste and quality.

Frozen Mixed Berries

Costco’s frozen mixed berries sound like a great deal, but they often fall short in taste and texture. The berries can be mushy and lack the vibrant flavor of fresh fruit. In addition, the mix can be inconsistent, with some bags having more of certain berries than others.

I now choose to buy fresh berries when they are in season and freeze them myself. This method results in better texture and taste, and I can customize my berry mix. Plus, it’s a great way to take advantage of seasonal sales at local farmers’ markets.

Packaged Muffins

The allure of Costco’s jumbo muffins is hard to resist, but their size and nutritional content pose a problem. Each muffin is loaded with sugar and calories, making it an indulgence rather than a regular breakfast option. They also tend to go stale quickly if not consumed immediately.

Instead, I bake my own muffins at home using whole wheat flour and natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. This way, I control the portion size and ingredients, resulting in a healthier, more satisfying treat that stays fresh longer.

Bottled Water

Bottled water from Costco might be convenient, but it’s not the most environmentally friendly choice. The plastic waste adds up quickly, and the quality of bottled water often doesn’t surpass that of filtered tap water. I realized the environmental impact just didn’t justify the convenience.

I’ve invested in a high-quality water filter for my tap. This solution reduces plastic waste and saves money in the long run. Plus, the filtered water tastes just as good, if not better, than bottled options, making it a win-win for my household.

Canned Soup

Costco’s canned soups are convenient, but they tend to be high in sodium and preservatives. The flavors can be one-dimensional, and I often find myself needing to add extra ingredients to improve the taste. For a supposedly quick meal, it ends up taking more time than expected.

I’ve started making large batches of homemade soup, which I freeze in individual portions. This method ensures that I have a healthy, flavorful meal ready to go whenever I need it. Plus, I can control the ingredients, making it a healthier option for my family.