18 Everyday Items You Should Stop Buying at the Grocery Store
Save money and avoid unnecessary markups by skipping these 18 common grocery store purchases.
- Chris Graciano
- 3 min read
Not everything on grocery store shelves is worth your hard-earned cash. Many everyday items can be found cheaper elsewhere, made at home, or skipped altogether. Here are 18 things smart shoppers are avoiding to cut costs and shop more efficiently.
1. Bottled Water
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It’s overpriced and bad for the environment. A reusable bottle and water filter can save hundreds yearly. Tap water in most areas is just as safe.
2. Pre-Cut Fruits and Veggies
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Convenience comes at a premium. These cost significantly more than whole produce and spoil faster. Take a few minutes to chop at home.
3. Brand-Name Spices
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You’re paying extra for the label, not the flavor. Bulk bins or discount stores offer the same quality for less. Plus, they last longer than you think.
4. Salad Kits
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While convenient, these are costly and often filled with preservatives. Buying ingredients separately is fresher and cheaper.
5. Bakery Bread
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Fresh bread at grocery stores is often overpriced and not that fresh. Local bakeries or baking your own offers better taste and savings.
6. Cleaning Supplies
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Generic or dollar store versions clean just as well. Grocery chains often mark these up, so stock up elsewhere for less.
7. Name-Brand Cereal
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Branded cereals are often twice the cost of store brands with similar ingredients. Taste tests show few can tell the difference. Save money by skipping the big names.
8. Packaged Snack Packs
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These have tiny portions and high prices. Buying snacks in bulk and portioning them yourself cuts waste and costs. It’s also healthier this way.
9. Greeting Cards
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Four bucks for a piece of cardstock? Discount stores or digital alternatives cost far less. Personal messages matter more than price tags.
10. Bottled Salad Dressing
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Store-bought dressings often contain added sugars and preservatives. Whipping up a simple vinaigrette at home takes seconds.
11. Frozen Pancakes and Waffles
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Homemade versions freeze just as well and taste better. You’ll save money and cut out additives. Plus, you control the ingredients.
12. Air Fresheners
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Most are chemical-heavy and overpriced. Essential oils or homemade sprays work better and cost less. Your lungs (and wallet) will thank you.
13. Shredded Cheese
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You’re paying for the convenience, plus anti-caking agents. Buying blocks and shredding at home gives you more for less.
14. Single-Serve Coffee Pods
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These are convenient but costly. A standard coffee maker and ground beans stretch your dollar further, and the flavor is often better, too.
15. Paper Towels in Small Packs
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The unit price of paper towels is way higher in smaller quantities. Warehouse clubs or bulk deals save more long-term. Stocking up pays off.
16. Canned Soup
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These canned soups are often loaded with sodium and preservatives. Homemade batches can be made in bulk and frozen for later. You’ll save and eat cleaner.
17. Disposable Razors
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These razors are expensive and not built to last. Subscription services or safety razors offer better value and are more eco-friendly.
18. Organic Produce (Certain Types)
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Some fruits and veggies (like avocados or bananas) have thick skins and don’t need to be organic. Check the “Dirty Dozen” list before spending extra.