Bruno Pugh
When you’re in a home improvement store, everything looks like a must-have. But hold up! Some items are overpriced, low quality, or just not needed. We’re breaking down 20 items you can skip to save time, money, and hassle.
Basic Hand Tools
Instead of paying top dollar for essentials like hammers or screwdrivers, try discount stores or online for cheaper, quality options. You don’t need premium prices for everyday tools, so save your cash for bigger investments. Great hand tools are everywhere—you don’t have to splurge.
Light Bulbs
Buying bulbs at home improvement stores might cost more than you think! Grocery or big-box stores often carry them for less, and buying in bulk online can mean even better savings. Skip the markup and light up your space without breaking the bank on basics like bulbs.
Extension Cords
Don’t pay extra for a little more length—grab your extension cords elsewhere to stay connected while being budget-friendly. Extension cords are convenient but tend to be overpriced in home improvement aisles. Hardware or discount stores often carry the same ones for a smaller cost.
Cleaning Supplies
You’re better off picking up cleaners at the grocery store instead of paying a premium here. Brands and quality are usually the same, but prices aren’t! From glass cleaner to floor polish, take a quick detour on your next grocery run to stock up on cleaning must-haves.
Garden Soil
Soil from local nurseries often packs more nutrients and costs less than the pre-bagged variety you find in big stores. Support local and score a better deal, and know your garden is getting high-quality soil without all the fillers. Healthier plants and a happier wallet? Yes, please!
Paint Supplies
Rollers and paintbrushes may be handy here, but they often come at a premium price. Find similar quality at a discount store or online for way less. It’s all about saving on small stuff so your next paint project doesn’t go over budget before you even open a can.
Water Filters
Online shops usually have better deals on the same water filters sold here. Avoid the extra markup and grab your filters from e-stores to save some cash. Clean, fresh water should come at a fair price—not at the cost of overpriced convenience!
Light Fixtures
Home improvement stores stock a variety of light fixtures, but prices are often high, and choices are limited. If you’re after a unique look without the big spend, check out online or at specialty shops. Get your perfect lighting without dimming your budget or settling for limited styles.
Power Strips
Power strips are essentials that don’t need a premium price tag! Discount stores offer these basics for a lot less. Spend on the exciting parts of your project and let your power strips be simple, functional, and easy on your wallet. Practical shouldn’t mean pricey.
Outdoor Furniture
Furniture stores, secondhand options, or even online retailers often have stylish pieces for less. Outdoor furniture prices can be sky-high for no extra quality. Give your patio a makeover with smart shopping—you deserve comfort and savings, not overpriced chairs!
Air Filters
Grocery and online stores usually offer air filters at a lower price, perfect for routine replacements. Keeping your air clean doesn’t mean emptying your wallet! Check options outside the home improvement store and keep your budget balanced while breathing easy.
Showerheads
Sometimes, a small saving goes a long way for relaxation. Online or discount stores often carry showerheads at better prices than home improvement aisles. It’s worth the search for an affordable upgrade that lets you turn your shower into a spa-like retreat without overspending.
Storage Bins
Organizing doesn’t have to be expensive. Budget shops offer bins at a fraction of the price you’d pay here. From garage to closet, skip the home improvement section and check out affordable options elsewhere to tidy up your space for less.
Smoke Alarms
Safety first, but shop smart! Smoke alarms from local hardware stores or e-commerce retailers are often cheaper than those at big-box improvement stores. Keep your home safe without spending extra—you can find reliable alarms without the markup.
Thermostats
Thermostats may seem like a good buy here, but electronic stores and virtual deals tend to have better prices. For the latest features without the extra cost, look around and save. After all, comfort at home shouldn’t mean an uncomfortable price tag.
Kitchen Organizers
From drawer dividers to spice racks, organizers are often cheaper at low-cost retailers. Skip the pricey aisle and pick affordable organizers still bring order to your space. Who says kitchen perfection needs to come at a premium? Stay organized without the big spend.
Basic Plumbing Supplies
Big-box stores can charge hefty markups for basic plumbing items, from pipes to seals. Smaller hardware shops or online stores often carry these essentials for less. Your plumbing fix doesn’t need a premium price tag, so choose affordable options to keep costs under control.
Basic Hardware
Some simple hardware like screws and nails are essentials that you’ll often find cheaper elsewhere. The basics shouldn’t break the bank, so check your local discount or hardware store. Stock up affordably and keep every DIY project budget-friendly from start to finish.
Toolboxes
Outlet stores or digital marketplaces can offer solid alternatives for less. Toolboxes don’t need to be expensive to work well. Store your tools safely while staying within your budget—after all, what’s inside the box counts most!
DIY Kits
DIY kits can be fun but overpriced. Craft stores and virtual shops often have the same kits at better prices. For furniture or crafts, a little extra search means you get quality supplies without overspending on the “do-it-yourself” experience.