A small household — a single person or a couple with one or two children — may think shopping in bulk is just for those with many mouths to feed. But stocking up can be a great way for anyone to save money, time and even reduce waste.
Sure, your bill may seem larger since you’re buying more at once, but when you buy in bulk, you generally pay a lower price per unit. Not to mention, when you purchase a larger supply of an item, you don't have to worry about hitting the store as often, will have less packaging to deal with and will have enough necessities on hand for any potential emergencies.
But not everything should be purchased in mass quantities. For many families, fresh items like produce may go bad before you have a chance to eat them. Always consider expiration dates, so you don’t end up throwing away an excess and resist the temptation of impulse purchases that can make your bill skyrocket.
If you’re headed to the warehouse store and not sure what should make it into your cart, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of things you’re always better off buying in large quantities.
1. Nuts
Nuts are a nutritious and versatile snack, but they tend to be pricey. Picking up a big bag is a wise move. When stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry pantry, nuts can last for months on end.
2. Diapers and wipes
The cost of diapers and wipes add up — especially if you have more than one child who hasn’t yet been potty-trained. Thankfully, many of the big warehouse stores manufacture their own brands of diapers and wipes, plus sell other popular picks like Pampers and Huggies. Some diaper brands, like Honest and Coterie, also offer bulk subscription services that you can have delivered right to your door.
3. Paper products
Nobody likes to spend their hard-earned money on paper towels and toilet paper, but they’re household staples. Look for brands that offer multipacks or jumbo rolls to get the most bang for your buck. Some of the warehouse stores also have their own brands, which are generally more cost-effective than those from big-name brands.
4. Laundry and dish detergent
When shopping for laundry and dish detergent, look for brands that offer large containers or subscribe to a delivery service like, Blueland. We especially recommend buying liquid detergent in bulk if you have an appliance that auto dispenses the solution.
5. Batteries
From toys and flashlights to remote controls, there are a lot of gadgets in your home that require batteries. Buying them in bulk not only saves money, but also ensures you always have some on hand.
6. Oil and cooking sprays
Thankfully this pricey grocery store staple is not only very versatile, but also very shelf stable so you can buy large quantities of olive oil and cooking sprays without worrying it’ll go to waste.
7. Garbage bags
Stocking this very essential household item in bulk will ensure you’ll never have to run out to the store at the last minute, because you don’t have a spare on hand. You can get standard kitchen garbage bags, as well as smaller ones for bathrooms and larger contractor bags in bulk.
8. Toiletries
Soap or body wash, shampoo and conditioner and toothpaste are all bathroom items you can get in bulk at warehouse stores or online through Amazon and certain brand’s own websites.
9. Pet food
If you have the space to store extra pet food, larger bags, boxes and bundles of cans are a great option for pet parents who choose big-name brands.
10. Supplements
The cost of supplements and vitamins can add up quickly, but savvy shoppers who buy larger quantities at a time will save a lot in the long run — especially if you’re able to score your go-to on sale.
11. Protein bars
Protein bars are a convenient and portable snack that can help you stay fueled throughout the day. Keep an eye out for brands that offer multipacks for more variety.
12. Snack packs
Similarly, snack packs — think mini bags of chips or cookies — are a good option for families who are constantly on the go. They’re also convenient for packing lunches.
13. Salt and Pepper
Many spices would lose some of their luster before you’d get a chance to consume them, but salt and pepper is versatile enough to opt for the bigger containers. This way, you’ll always have a supply on hand.
14. Bottled or canned beverages
Forget the six packs — they vanish in a flash, plus tend to have a lot of wasteful packaging. Whether you’re buying water, seltzer, soda or sports drinks, we recommend buying the pallet, which offers dozens in one package.
15. Vanilla
Vanilla extract is another pricey ingredient, and even if you don’t use it all that often, it’s still worth picking up a bigger bottle for the long-term savings.
16. Cheese
Both cubed, sliced and shredded cheese of all kinds are worth stocking up on. Mozzarella sticks are another great option for busy families and anyone who packs lunch. Just be sure to check expiration dates, and freeze any excess until you need it.
17. Over-the-counter medication
You can find pain relievers, allergy medication and first aid supplies all in bulk, but be wary of expiration dates. We don’t recommend stocking your entire medicine cabinet with bulk buys, but oft-used things (like fever reducer) or items that don’t expire (like bandages) are safe bets.
18. Office supplies
Paper, pens and toner cartridges are worth stocking up on. Other items, like sticky notes, paperclips and staples also come in bulk, but may not be worth buying in large quantities unless you use them extensively.
19. Light bulbs
You never know when one is going to burn out. Having a stash will not only save you in these moments, but it’ll also lighten the load on your wallet a bit.
20. Wrapping paper
Spare yourself the hassle of a last-minute trip to the convenience store before a birthday party or holiday by stocking a few bulk rolls of wrapping paper, as well as some ribbon and bows. You can even buy assortments of greeting cards for all holidays.
Brigitt is a writer, editor and craft stylist with nearly 15 years of experience. She specializes in lifestyle topics, including home, health, parenting, beauty, style, food, entertaining, travel and weddings. She has written for Glamour, People, Good Housekeeping, Women's Health, Real Simple, Martha Stewart, Apartment Therapy, The Spruce, and more.
