Everyone is looking for smart ways to stretch their budget, and one of the most effective strategies starts right in your shopping cart. Buying in bulk can lead to significant savings, but the key is knowing which items offer the best value. We’ve compiled a list of eight everyday essentials that are almost always cheaper when you buy them in larger quantities, helping you save money without sacrificing quality.
Topping the list are two items no household can do without: toilet paper and paper towels. These products never expire, and you are guaranteed to use them eventually. Buying a small four-pack of toilet paper at the corner store will always have a higher cost per roll than purchasing a 30-pack from a warehouse club like Costco or Sam’s Club.
The savings come from the lower price per unit. While the upfront cost is higher, the long-term savings are substantial. The key is to have a dedicated storage space, like a linen closet, garage shelf, or under a bed. When you see a sale on a large pack of your favorite brand, like Charmin or Scott, it’s the perfect time to stock up and lock in those savings for months to come.
The pantry in the ad image is full of them for a good reason. Canned goods like beans, tomatoes, corn, and tuna are champions of shelf life. They can last for years, making them perfect for bulk purchasing. They are the foundation of countless quick and easy meals, from chili and soups to pasta sauces and salads.
Look for sales where you can buy 10 cans for a set price or purchase large flats from wholesale stores. A well-stocked canned goods section in your pantry means you always have the ingredients for a healthy meal on hand, reducing the temptation for expensive takeout. Brands like Bush’s beans or Del Monte vegetables frequently offer multi-packs that lower the cost per can.
Items like rice, oats, quinoa, and dried beans are incredibly inexpensive when bought in large bags. Compare the price of a one-pound bag of rice to a 20-pound bag, and the per-pound savings are immediately obvious. These are staples for countless recipes and form the base of many affordable, filling meals.
The most important factor for storing dry grains is keeping them in an airtight container to protect them from moisture and pests. Transfer them from their original bags into large food-safe plastic or glass containers. This not only keeps them fresh for a very long time but also makes your pantry look organized.
Just like dry grains, pasta is a non-perishable staple that is perfect for buying in bulk. Whether your family loves spaghetti, penne, or macaroni, you can find large multi-packs or oversized bags at a significant discount compared to the standard one-pound box.
Having a variety of pasta shapes on hand makes weeknight dinners simple and versatile. Since it lasts for years in a cool, dry place, there is virtually no risk of it going to waste. This is an easy switch that can save a surprising amount of money over the course of a year, especially for families who eat pasta regularly.
Whether you prefer olive oil, coconut oil, canola, or vegetable oil, buying it in a larger container is a smart financial move. A large tin or jug of olive oil from a store like BJ’s or even a well-stocked grocery store will have a much lower price per ounce than a small, decorative bottle.
Most cooking oils have a shelf life of one to two years, so an average family will easily use a large container before it expires. Just be sure to store it in a cool, dark place away from the stove to maintain its quality and prevent it from going rancid.
While you might not think of spices as a bulk item, this is where some of the biggest markups exist in a grocery store. A tiny jar of cinnamon or garlic powder can be quite expensive. You can save a huge amount by refilling your small jars from larger bags purchased at warehouse clubs, ethnic markets, or the bulk bins at stores like Sprouts or WinCo.
The key with spices is freshness. It’s best to buy whole spices like peppercorns or cumin seeds in bulk, as they retain their flavor much longer than pre-ground versions. For ground spices, only buy a quantity you know you’ll use within six months to a year to ensure they remain potent.
Household essentials extend beyond the kitchen. Cleaning supplies like laundry detergent, dish soap, and all-purpose cleaners are fantastic candidates for bulk buying. These products have a very long shelf life and are used consistently.
The price difference between a standard-sized bottle of Tide laundry detergent and the largest available container is significant. The same goes for brands like Dawn dish soap. By purchasing the largest size, you reduce the cost per load or per ounce and ensure you don’t run out at an inconvenient time.
Don’t forget the bathroom when you’re stocking up. Bar soap, body wash, shampoo, conditioner, and toothpaste are all items you will use every single day. They are non-perishable and can be stored easily.
Buying multi-packs of these items is almost always more cost-effective. A 12-pack of Dove soap or a three-pack of Crest toothpaste offers a lower unit price than buying them one at a time. When you find a good sale on your favorite brands, it’s the perfect opportunity to buy enough to last for several months.
What if I don’t have a lot of storage space? You can still benefit from bulk buying. Focus on items that are dense and don’t take up much room, like spices or toothpaste. You can also split a bulk purchase with a friend or family member to share both the cost and the items.
Is buying in bulk always the cheaper option? Almost always, but it’s smart to check the price per unit. Most store shelves will list the price per ounce, per pound, or per roll. A quick comparison will confirm if the larger package is truly the better deal.
Are there any items I should avoid buying in bulk? Yes. Avoid buying perishable items like produce or dairy in bulk unless you have a specific plan to use or preserve them immediately. Also, be cautious with items you’ve never tried before. You don’t want to be stuck with a gallon of a sauce your family dislikes. Finally, items with a short shelf life, like nuts and certain flours (like whole wheat), can go rancid, so only buy what you can use before they expire.