Bruno Pugh
You think you’re picking up a few handy essentials, but suddenly, your cart is full, and your receipt is longer than the to-do list. Sound familiar? Ace Hardware has a way of turning quick errands into overspending. Some items seem like good picks, but they fall short. This list helps you skip the regret and shop smarter where it counts most—your wallet.
Extension Cords That Cost Too Much
Voltage ratings, wire gauges, and insulation are standardized. Whether it’s $10 or $18, a 14-gauge cord handles the same current. Ace sells premium-labeled cords that deliver no added value. Budget-conscious buyers should compare specs before paying more for a fancy logo. It’s electricity, not fashion.
Single Tools At Multi-Pack Prices
Think you’re getting a deal on that single screwdriver? Think again. You’ll often find multi-piece toolkits at Lowe’s or Amazon for the price of just two items at Ace. Unless you need a quick fix, avoid the impulse buy. Your wallet and toolbox will thank you later.
Costly Everyday Light Bulbs
You stopped for a fix-it run and walked out with bulbs that quietly bumped your total. It has the same wattage and a higher price tag. Meanwhile, other stores got the better deal, sitting in plain sight. Every little add-on adds up, especially when you’re not watching the math happen.
Painter’s Tape That Doesn’t Stick
Skip the bargain-bin painter’s tape if clean edges and easy removal are important to you. Cheap rolls tear easily and often leave behind a mess or take paint with them. When working on trim or detailed designs, reliable tape makes all the difference. Your project deserves a smoother, stress-free finish.
Batteries Sold In Small Packs
Buying batteries at Ace is like buying popcorn at the movies—tiny portions, massive markups. A 4-pack of AA batteries might cost the same as an 8-pack at Costco. Unless the remote is begging and Amazon won’t ship same-day, resist. Save your money for smarter buys.
Fancy Grill Gear, Same Tools
You’re not grilling with magic wands, just metal sticks with handles. So why the price hike? Add a flame icon, and suddenly, it’s premium. So, skip the gimmick. You can flip a burger just fine with budget tongs that don’t need a superhero backstory.
Overpriced Store Brand Cleaners
The label may look plain, but the price is not. Ace’s store-brand cleaners often fall short and cost more than better-known options. They may seem convenient, but you’re not getting more for your money. For a better clean at a lower price, check discount stores instead.
Tiny Packs Of Screws
Buying a few screws might seem convenient, but those tiny packs disappear fast. One small task turns into repeated hardware runs. It feels like assembling a puzzle with missing pieces. Grabbing a larger box upfront saves hassle and keeps projects moving without constant stops to restock.
Toolkits That Break Fast
They shine on the shelf, packed in tidy rows. But once you twist or pry, they fold under pressure. These kits aren’t built for real work; they’re built to impress in packaging. Spend once on durability, and skip the regret when a tool fails mid-fix.
Cheap Lawn Decor
It’s cute, colorful, and feels like it belongs in your yard—until the sun fades it and the wind knocks it down. These decorations aren’t built to last. Stores bank on impulse. Instead, wait for off-season deals if you want a charm that sticks around longer than a season.