Most people will love getting a bargain and some are willing to shop at several places to get it. Some people prefer to shop at discount stores.

Big Lots is a liquidation store. That means they buy bulk products from stores that are going out of business or have too much inventory. Many of these products are brand name items while others may be defective. Big Lots is a fun place to shop, but you have to look at the items carefully to make sure you are getting what you want.

You may buy a sweater only to find that it has a hole in it when you put it on. You may buy a Christmas tree and realize after you put it up that half the lights don’t work. On the other hand, you may find an expensive sofa for a fraction of the cost of the same one in a furniture store.

If you plan on shopping at Big Lots or any discount store for that matter, you need to know how to navigate those shelves. There are certain things you should buy and some you shouldn’t. Here are some suggestions.

Buy It

1. Cotton Sheets

Cotton sheets can be expensive at some stores, but Big Lots usually has them dirt cheap. You might just get the best night’s sleep of your life, and love that you didn’t spend a fortune on these sheets. You can save money on these at Big Lots, especially if you buy them in bulk. Cotton sheets can even be useful for things other than sleeping.

2. Rug Pads

If you have rugs in your home, you want to put rug pads under them. They not only stop your rugs from sliding around on the floor, but they also make them a little softer. Your feet will thank you and your wallet will too. You can get these rug pads for a great price at Big Lots.

3. Curtains

Big Lots has a huge selection of curtains, and they are all reasonably priced. You can find some big name and designer brands. You can afford to buy curtains for every window in your home. You don’t need fancy curtains for them to serve the purpose at home – you can even get creative and decorate them in a special way.

4. Glassware

Can you ever have enough glasses? If you need to stock up on some, Big Lots it the place to go. You can find individual glasses or boxes of them. They are perfect for holidays and special occasions. You can get a set of ‘cheaper glasses’ here, so that when you host a lot of people (or a lot of people who aren’t very careful) you can use these, instead of a nicer set that you spent more money on.

5. Gel Mattress Topper

Is your mattress getting a little too hard and a little too hot? Put a gel mattress topper on it, and you will sleep much better. It will keep you cool and give you a little extra comfort. Big Lots has them at a low price too. For gel mattress toppers, you don’t need to break the bank to get one that works. So check out Big Lots to get a bargain one that will make you sleep so much better.

6. Hanging Jewelry Racks

Big Lots has a lot of different accessories, and they almost always have a good selection of hanging jewelry racks. You can store various types of jewelry on them, and they don’t take up much space. They are great for tight spaces and dorm rooms. You can get this for your child if they are going to college (or moving into their own apartment soon). It’s a necessity for every girl!

7. Pillowcases

Sometimes the right pillowcase can help you sleep better. They can also add a little décor to your bedroom. Big Lots has a large selection of pillowcases, and they are all affordable. If you’re like me, I’m always cycling through new pillowcases – it’s helpful to change these pretty often (every couple of days) and it is very good for your skin to do so, as we usually sweat on pillowcases.

8. Shower Accessories

If you are looking for a way to add a little more space to your shower, a shower caddie or some other shower accessories can help. You can find them in a variety of shapes, sizes, and patterns. They are all priced pretty low too. Shower organization accessories can make your bathroom look so much more put together.
Give it a try!

9. Slow Cookers

If you don’t already have a slow cooker, you are missing out on the easiest way to cook dinner. Big Lots carries many different types of brands and sizes. Pick up one and make your life a little easier. You can get these at Big Lots at a lower rate than you can at other retailers – so check it out soon!

10. Storage

Big Lots has a lot of storage solutions, and they are much more affordable than at other stores. You can find storage for the closet, garage, or even under the bed. You can even find storage solutions in colors and patterns that match your home décor.

11. Wool Pouf

Pouf seating is stylish and fun. The poufs can go for high prices at some store, but Big Lots sells them for a very reasonable price. Add one to your home for extra style and seating. You can get this for your living room or family room to add a bit of flare. Check out the ones that Big Lots sell!

12. Blinds

Home improvement stores have blinds that are outrageously priced. Big Lots has them at a fraction of the price. They even carry some big name brands.

13. Small Appliances

Whether you need a new toaster, a hand mixer, or a microwave, always check Big Lots before you go anywhere else. They have a lot of different types of small appliances, and their prices are much more reasonable than other stores. They even carry top brands.

14. Food Storage

Have you lost all the lids to your food storage containers? Don’t worry about because you can get new ones at Big Lots for next to nothing. You can find plastic, glass, and even metal containers with lids. They are great for packing lunches and meal prep.

15. Pillows

A lot of people like to get new pillows every couple of months but this can get expensive if you are paying full price for them. Big Lots has a great selection of affordably priced.

16. Wall Décor

You never know what kind of wall décor you might find at Big Lots. Take a while to look around and see if you can find anything to inspire you. The best part is, it’s all super cheap.

17. Furniture

Big Lots is a great place to buy furniture. They carry a lot of popular brands and styles. They even offer financing on some pieces.

18. Speakers

If you want a speaker for your home or one to take to the gym, Big Lots is a great place to look. They carry top brand names and a big selection. You can’t beat the prices either.

19. Snacks

Big Lots has aisles and aisles of snacks. You can find all of your favorite treats at discounted prices. Sometimes they even have things you can’t find anywhere else.

20. Pet Supplies

You love your pet, and so does Big Lots. They offer many different pet products from shampoo to beds. You can even find pet food.

21. Vacuums

If you’re in the market for a new vacuum, Big Lots is going to be your best bet. You can find very nice name brand-vacuums at giant discounts. Check their ads before you head to the store, you might be able to get the price down even lower.

22. Makeup and vanity organizers

Between Q-Tips, cotton balls, lip glosses, and eye shadows, the vanity in our bathroom can quickly become cluttered and unsightly. Head to Big Lots and pick up a countertop organizer that will help you keep everything in place.

23. Waffle iron

Crispy and moist waffles can be eaten in your home every weekend with a waffle iron, but they can be quite expensive. Not at Big Lots! You can often find a rotating Belgian waffle iron for less than $25.

24. Rolling carts

Need some extra storage and counter space in your kitchen? Pick up a charming and rustic rolling cart from Big Lots. Not only are the functional but they’re a wonderful element of decor as well!

25. Mirrors

Mirrors make gorgeous pieces of decor and are great at giving the illusion of more space in a smaller room. They can also be expensive. But if you head over to Big Lots, you’ll find a wide array of mirrors for much cheaper than elsewhere.

Don’t Buy It

1. Makeup Products

If you aren’t careful, you can find yourself buying makeup products that expired. Big Lots usually buys them in bulk, and sometimes the employees don’t take the time to check the expiration dates before putting them on the shelves. You don’t want to wear expired makeup.

2. Electrical Plugs

While products may be cheaper, they may also be defective. There is just no way of knowing if Big Lots received the items because another store was closing or if they were part of a faulty batch that was sold at discount. Do yourself a favor and be extra careful.

3. Medication

Over-the-counter medicine may be cheaper at Big Lots, but it may also be expired. Things like vitamins and pain medication can go bad. It’s never a good idea to take any medicine that is outdated. Just buy these things at the pharmacy where you know they safe.

4. Toys

Big Lots usually has toys priced at very reasonable prices. The problem is, some of these toys are made below standards, missing pieces, or broken. This may not seem like a big deal, but the last thing you want to happen is for your child to be harmed while playing.

5. Tools

The tools are Big Lots are usually great. However, you may pay more for them than what you would for the same brand in a different store, and you don’t know about their quality. Just don’t waste your money on something that will break before you get the job done.

6. Jewelry

Big Lots usually has a good selection of jewelry, but make sure you know what you are buying. Some of it is made of materials that may not be safe to wear. Others are broken or missing stones.

7. Baby Supplies

You may be tempted to buy your baby wipes, diapers, and bottles at Big Lots because of the low prices, but try to avoid it. You never know where these products came from or what materials they contain. You don’t want to endanger your baby.

8. Clothing

Big Lots doesn’t always have clothing, but when it does, it’s best to avoid buying it. The sizing is often off, and usually, the designs are flawed. In some cases, there may even be small holes and defects in the clothing pieces.

9. Personal Hygiene Products

If you look at all the personal hygiene products available at Big Lots, you may see some you know and some you don’t recognize. Be aware that some products are not safe to use. If you decide to buy personal hygiene products here, choose wisely.

10. Seeds

Big Lots usually offers seeds and bulbs for sale in the spring. Be aware that these are likely from the year before and many of them will not grow. Check the dates and consider shopping at your local garden center instead.

11. Frozen Food

Some Big Lots stores have freezer food items for sale. Always check the expiration dates of these foods. Remember, they may have sat in trucks and thawed before being refrozen. Consider buying your frozen foods elsewhere.

12. Holiday Decorations

The holiday decoration displays may look nice, but most of them don’t work. They are likely defective and from previous years. You also don’t want to take any chances with the electric cords attached to them.

13. Holiday Food Gifts

Holiday food gifts are a great idea, but buying them from Big Lots isn’t. They are often expired. Buy them elsewhere or make your own.

14. Office Supplies

Big Lots has a lot of office supplies, but if you look closely, most of it is low quality. You can buy many of the same products from other stories, and they will last longer. Things like crayons, staplers, and pens aren’t great from Big Lots.

15. Oven Mitts

Do you really have to be picky with oven mitts? Yes, you do. Big Lots carries many different types, but most of them have very little lining. That means you will likely burn your hand before you get the pan from the oven to the counter.

16. Glass Jars

If you need a box of glass jars, buy them from a different store. Big Lots jars are not as high quality as other brands. The boxes often get tossed around a lot from the truck to the floor. That means a lot of the jars are broken.

17. Paint

Some Big Lots stores have paint and stains. These products are often old, and some of them may even be returns. Avoid buying something that could ruin your walls or deck. Just get the brands you trust from other stores.

18. Paint Brushes

Big Lots paint brushes aren’t very good. They lose bristles during the first few uses, and they don’t hold much paint. They also show lines and aren’t comfortable to hold. They just aren’t worth the money.

19. Laundry Detergent

Big Lots may carry some high-quality laundry detergents, but they also carry brands that you may have never heard of before. Don’t take a chance with these cheaper brands. They could contain chemicals that are harmful to your body.

20. Drinks

Big Lots may seem like a good place to buy drinks. If you just want one from the cooler up front go for it. Anything else, be careful. Many of these are expired, and a lot of them just don’t taste good.

21. Greeting cards

“Anyone who’s bought a grocery store greeting card has felt the sticker shock — $4.95 for a piece of cardstock with a pretty design? You can do better,” says Money Talks News. Make your own or head to the Dollar Tree.

22. Batteries

You might be tempted to purchase batteries at Big Lots because they’re cheaper than other stores. However, avoid doing this because you never know how old those batteries are and you could be wasting your money.

23. Toothbrushes

Even though the prices of toothbrushes might be inexpensive at Big Lots, don’t waste your money on buying them at all! The dentist’s office will give you a free one after a cleaning. Simply ask them if you can have one or two extra!

24. Bottled water

Bottled water may be offered at a discount at Big Lots, but really–is it necessary? Unless your area has been notified otherwise, your tap water is perfectly fine to drink. You can also attach a filter to your faucet saving you tons of money on bottled water and imagine all that plastic you’re saving!

25. Spices

Big Lots can offer spices and herbs at a major discount but avoid the urge to buy them. They can often be old which can significantly reduce their potency and taste.