What You Should and Shouldn’t Buy at Costco
Being a Costco member has its perks. The warehouse is packed with huge products, tempting prices, and the feeling that you’re always getting a bargain. But bigger doesn’t always mean better value.
Some items at Costco really are excellent deals, while others look good on the shelf but don’t make sense once you take quality, freshness, or long-term cost into account. Here’s a straightforward guide to what’s worth buying — and what you’re better off skipping.
❌ Don’t Buy: Kirkland Laundry Detergent
Kirkland laundry detergent may seem like a money-saver, but it often turns out to be a false economy.
Many users find it harsh on clothes, causing colours to fade and fabrics to wear out faster. There are also concerns about skin irritation and environmental impact. Saving a few pounds isn’t worth replacing clothes sooner or risking skin problems.
✅ Buy: Maple Syrup
Costco’s Kirkland maple syrup is one of its standout products.
It’s real, natural maple syrup — not watered down with maize syrup like many supermarket brands. Sold in a generous one-litre bottle, it’s excellent value and far better than what most cafés and breakfast chains serve.
❌ Don’t Buy: Books
Costco’s book section can look tempting, but it’s not always the best deal.
While prices are often lower than high-street bookshops, you can usually find the same titles online for even less. Unless you spot something unusual or discounted heavily, it’s worth checking elsewhere first.
✅ Buy: Toilet Paper
This is one of Costco’s safest and smartest buys.
The large packs offer good quality, soft paper at a price that’s hard to beat. It lasts ages and works out cheaper per roll than most supermarkets. The same goes for paper towels — bulky, but excellent value.
✅ Buy: Olive Oil
Olive oil is a kitchen staple, and Costco does it well.
Their large bottles of extra-virgin, organic olive oil are high quality and good value. You’ll save money in the long run and won’t need to replace it frequently.
❌ Don’t Buy: Ground Coffee
Buying coffee in bulk sounds sensible, but ground coffee is a different story.
Once coffee beans are ground, they quickly lose flavour when exposed to air. Large tubs may save money, but the taste suffers. If you care about flavour, buy whole beans in smaller amounts instead.
✅ Buy: Petrol
For many members, petrol alone justifies the Costco card.
Costco fuel prices are consistently lower than most competitors. Even if you didn’t shop inside the warehouse much, the savings on fuel could still make membership worthwhile.
❌ Don’t Buy: Kirkland Light Beer
This is one item best left on the shelf.
Costco stocks plenty of well-known beer brands that are good value, but Kirkland Light Beer doesn’t measure up. Most people find it lacking in taste, making it a risky buy compared to brands you already know and enjoy.
✅ Buy: Frozen Fruit (and Vegetables)
Frozen produce is one of Costco’s best-value sections.
You can buy large quantities, store them for months, and use only what you need. The quality is good, the selection is wide, and it’s ideal for smoothies, cooking, or meal prep.
Final Thought
Costco can save you serious money — but only if you shop wisely. Stick to high-quality staples, bulk essentials, and long-lasting items. Be cautious with products where freshness, taste, or quality really matter.
Big trolleys don’t always mean big savings — smart choices do.