Right now is a good time to get started buying bulk. Not only will your cabinets be full, but you can sustain your family for plenty of time. While there are many items like snacks and paper goods to purchase, not everything is best in bulk. Here’s a good list of things you shouldn’t buy in bulk now, or ever.
Dental Hygiene Products
Buying in bulk is a tool to save money, where individual pieces or products would ultimately cost more. While many items bought in bulk can save you money, I have found dental products are a waste of money. If you have a habit of picking up coupons in print and digital form, you can get mouthwash, toothbrushes, and toothpaste free almost every week. I frequently pick up these items at Walgreens by using their digital coupons, booster coupons in their weekly ad, and posted savings deals on these items. Kroger buys five save five, and other similar deals with digital and print coupons work the same.
Nuts and Seeds
Nuts and seed products are often expensive to purchase. Buying in bulk makes them look more appealing, but how likely are you to use a lot of nuts over a short time? If these are for snacking occasionally its best to skip on the bulk buy. Most nuts and seeds only last 3-6 months past the printed expiration date. If you can’t pass up the deal, store them in airlock containers or better yet in the freezer. You can keep them in the freezer for an additional one to two years.
Spices
Spices aren’t likely to go bad, but they could lose their freshness in up to one year sitting on the shelf. It is best to evaluate how much you cook and use species before you purchase in bulk. Also, there are other places to purchase many spices at a better price. I like getting mine from the farmers market where I can get mint, juniper, Tumeric, and other spices for under a $1.
Paper Products
If you live off paper plates, cups, and utensils, I know you would love to stock up at a discount. While it can seem like a good idea, it’s one of the things you shouldn’t buy in bulk. A small pantry can’t really accommodate the extra paper goods so it is beneficial to only get what you need at that time and pick up better essential items.
Bulk shopping is a great tool to fill your cabinets but beware of items you shouldn’t buy in bulk.
