These Are The Best Bargains At Walmart (And The Worst)

Walmart boasts that they save American families anywhere between $2000-$3000 annually on household items, groceries, and automotive supplies. With savings like these, it’s no wonder that bargain shoppers and thrifty consumers flock to their superstores each day, hoping to find deals that will help keep more of their hard-earned money in their pockets.

But while there are in fact many great deals to be found at Walmart, there are other items sold there that should be avoided at all costs. Here’s a list of the best and worst bargains that you’ll find at Walmart, so that you can shop smarter, not harder, the next time you wander through their aisles…

Best: Laundry Detergent

When compared to other bargain stores and big retail chains, Walmart is the superior place to purchase your laundry supply needs.

In general, unscented and green products are costlier anyway; shaving off a few pennies on the dollar will allow you to buy a product that will ultimately perform better in your wash. Stock up when you see sales, and you will have plenty to use on wash day.

Worst: Peanut Butter

Despite the fact that you can find most nut butters, both generic and specialized, on Walmart shelves, it’s not the taste or the brand that is problematic, but the price.

Walmart prices on peanut butters of all kinds tend to be higher than even supermarket chains.  This is bad news for those of us that like our PB&J on a regular basis; stock up on your peanut and almond butters elsewhere and look forward to extra savings with this thrifty move.

Best: Brand-Name Razors

Shaving is a moral imperative for many of us, yet we don’t want to break the bank when looking for quality razors. Neither do we want to nick and cut ourselves painfully by using bargain brands that are less than effective.

Walmart has great prices on brand name razors such as Bic and Gillette, and they can save you up to fifty percent of the cost of most pharmacy and grocery store prices.  With all of that extra money in your pocket, you may want to consider purchasing the gold standard blade and making razor rash a thing of the past.

Worst: Batteries

When it comes to purchasing both rechargeable and disposable batteries for home use, you’re better off going to Costco for batteries.

Walmart-shelved batteries have a tendency to sit in stock longer, resulting in a less powerful battery for the price. Costco-brand Kirkland Signature batteries give you the most juice for your buck, and they are every bit as good as brand names such as Duracell and Energizer.

Best: Tea and Coffee

Coffee and tea drinkers know that it just isn’t possible to start your day off right without a steamy cup. With this morning routine at stake, it’s going to be important for this essential item to be priced affordably.

Luckily, Walmart prices their teas and coffees at almost 27 percent lower than most other retail chains, making it the perfect item to indulge in. When you add a coupon or two to your cart, coffee and tea become deliciously affordable.

Worst: Televisions

Walmart may have the best prices on televisions, but this doesn’t necessarily mean that you are getting the best deal.

Many times, the quality of electronics is subpar, allowing Walmart to bargain price their items for quick turnaround. You are left with a low-quality item that may be prone to breakdown or malfunction, and the price needed to repair it may not justify purchase in the first place.  Look for higher quality electronics with a warranty that can stand the test of time.

Best: Kitchen Appliances

In addition to regular kitchen utensils for serving and cooking, Walmart offers many options for countertop kitchen appliances that are high quality items for a reasonable price.

Air fryers, insta pots, and coffee makers are all great examples of small housewares that you can purchase to enhance your kitchen and your culinary skills. Shop with confidence, knowing that your money is well spent.

Worst: Cake Mixes

Who doesn’t love a good cake?  These days, it’s even easier to whip up a delicious angel food or rich German chocolate with a box mix and some choice ingredients. Unfortunately, Walmart does not provide you with the best deals on cake mix.

Walmart’s brand, Great Value, does not have a stellar reputation for taste and flavor in any of their mixes—bread, pancake, or cake mix. You’re better off going with a brand name cake mix if you insist on buying from Walmart, as brands like Pillsbury or Duncan Hines are less likely to disappoint.

Best: Kitchen Utensils

A kitchen stocked with Walmart supplies such as appliances and utensils will rival the best professional chef station; it should be one of your first stops when filling cupboards and countertops.

Items such as the Gibson Total Kitchen set gives you all the basics of a well-functioning kitchen for a tidy price of less than $100. College kids can also find everything they need for budding kitchens and tidy dorm rooms as well; utensils and cookware are high quality and affordably priced. Cook on, and Bon Appetit!

Worst: Baking Products

Many people enjoy whipping up a batch of chocolate chip cookies or blueberry muffins on the weekend. When it comes to crafting delicious goodies from scratch, however, you get what you pay for.

Steer clear of Walmart brand baking products from Great Value; their items may be lower priced, but they lack the taste and quality that contribute to better tasting baked goods. Splurge on some premium flour, and you are likely to be much happier with what comes out of your oven.

Best: Pantry Food

Pantry items such as cereal, nuts, crackers, canned goods, and snack items are affordably priced, and most Walmart locations offer a variety of different options for these foods. Cereal, which may be pricey in other supermarket stores, is sold for a fraction of the cost that other stores price even their bargain cereal bags.

When you combine the already low shelf prices of most items with coupons offered on Walmart’s website, you have a recipe for pantry stocking success.  Go get these items and fill those shelves.

Worst: Maple Syrup

Although Walmart’s maple syrup is categorized as “good/very good” when compared to other supermarket brands, it may not be the sweetest deal when compared to neighboring stores.

Trader Joe’s maple syrup, for example, boasts a deliciously sweet and pure flavor, and it comes in at just over $1.07 per ¼ cup serving, compared to Walmart’s $1.17 per ¼ cup serving.  You’re saving money and getting a superior product by going to Trader Joe’s.

Worst: Pet Food Products

Getting your occasional quick bag of pet food from Walmart isn’t a bad deal, but it should not be your “go to” for pet food and supplies when subscription and delivery services could save you much more.

Scheduling regular deliveries with Amazon, for example, will not only save on shipping costs—particularly if you are a Prime member—but you’ll save between 5 and 10 percent on each purchase with Amazon’s trademark low prices.  That’ll have both you and Fido howling with glee.

Worst: Generic Supplements

Beware if you’ve been purchasing your generic supplements from Walmart shelves; you may not be getting what you intended to.

Not so long ago, the New York Attorney General’s office issued an official warning that major chain retailers such as Walmart may be selling branded herbal supplements which were incorrectly labeled, leading customers to believe that what they were getting was something else entirely.  This may have potentially dangerous consequences for those of us watching for prescription drug interactions with certain supplements.  Do your homework, and don’t skimp on the quality supplements.

Worst: Luggage

Nothing is worse when traveling than trying to manage luggage or carryon bags that are cheap, flimsy, and breaking down. If you are looking for reliable luggage to cart you across the globe, don’t plan on buying Walmart bags.

This chain, along with others such as Target, Sears, and Burlington Coat Factory, are among the worst places to purchase luggage, according to a recent Consumer Reports Survey.  Invest in high quality luggage that can withstand the wear and tear of travel, and you’ll be less likely to need to replace lost or broken items as you jet set from city to seascape.

Best: Automotive Supplies

Many consider Walmart a one-stop-shop when it comes to purchasing quality automotive supplies, tires, and even oil changes from the retail super giant.

For additional savings, Coupons.com offers considerable deals and discounts toward the purchase of certain motor oils and services, which can only be redeemed at Walmart locations.  A little savings goes a long way, especially when caring for and maintaining your car.  Get the savings while you can.

Worst: Pre-paid Telephone Packages

Tom’s Guide experts did their homework on prepaid wireless plans, and unfortunately, Walmart prepaid plans do not come in the lead for quality or longevity.

One company near the bottom was Walmart’s Straight Talk Wireless, which had the lowest LTE speed of all companies tested, and their customer service quality was ranked very poorly when compared to others. With a number of other prepaid options, it pays to shop around for your cellular service.

Worst: Rotisserie Chicken

Who hasn’t skipped the long lines at the deli and breezed in for a delicious rotisserie chicken on a busy weeknight?  While Walmart’s rotisserie chicken boasts some serious flavor, it’s not without its consequences.

First of all, most Walmart brand chickens offer half the chicken per pound that other stores provide, and they are laden with sodium that may initially enhance taste, but it’s not so good for you in the long run. Consider getting your quick dinner from another supermarket rotisserie retailer.

Worst: Fresh Products

Customers who routinely shop at Walmart for grocery and home care products tend to steer clear of the produce and meat aisles, citing poor quality and contaminated food as reasons for shopping elsewhere.

With a number of recalls on the books in recent years and a consistent showing with poor quality meat and produce, it pays to shop other retail chains for these essential items.

Best: Personalized Invitations

Many iconic life moments are marked with the receipt or sending of personalized invitations—-weddings, parties, and graduations are such events, to name a few.

Photos, personalized invitations, and announcements can be expertly designed and crafted for as little as $0.28 apiece, compared to a whopping $1.30 apiece at other retail chains. What a savings!

Worst: Gift Cards

There are times when Walmart delivers on the goods, offering gift cards on Black Friday, the day after Christmas, and other important retail “holidays”.

However, other chains such as Costco and Sam’s Club offer great discounts on gift cards year-round, making it smart to purchase from these retailers.  In doing so, you’ll be saving money regardless of when you choose to pick up a few for family and friends.

Best: Interior Furniture

When it comes to picking up furniture to improve the look and feel of your home, most people wouldn’t think of Walmart as one of the first places to shop interior furnishings.

Items like the MoDRN furniture line are affordably priced, and contemporary and classic designs make them simple to incorporate into almost any home decor.  It’s worth a look if you have a few pieces to replace, or if you have an entire room that needs updating. Check it out!

Best: Outdoor Furniture

Similarly, Walmart’s line of outdoor furnishings is durable, affordable, and they make a great addition to your home’s exterior living space.

Walmart proudly boasts the Better Homes & Gardens furniture collection, which is priced very highly at competitive retailers, yet it is surprisingly affordable when purchased through Walmart.  In a variety of attractive colors and designs, you’re sure to find something to please almost everyone.

Worst: Wooden Furniture

According to Carson Yarbrough, a savings expert at Offers.com, Walmart wooden furniture is among the worst when it comes to style and quality.

Many wooden items such as chairs and tables are produced from pressed particle board, which is more likely to deteriorate and crack under pressure.  These undesirable traits make it unlikely to hold up to your household demand; steer clear of wooden furniture from any Walmart store, and invest in something that will stand the test of time.

Best: Cozy Clothing

With the price of LuluLemon casual wear climbing by the minute, many of us are in search of some stylish yet comfortable clothing that we can race around in on weekends.

Walmart offers a variety of stylish, comfortable clothing in a variety of sizes and colors that will wear well at any cozy gathering.  With price points being affordable as well, you can afford to get more than one pair of sweats and a stylish outdoor vest; perfect for cozy times at home or loafing around on your days off.

Worst: Photo Printing Services

While Walmart photo prices are affordable for most, you are unlikely to be happy with the quality of prints and the timeliness in receiving your order.

Shutterfly has a download and print option that allows you to print an unlimited number of photos for one small fee, making it the gold standard of photo and print services.  Quality of Shutterfly items is very high, and their customer satisfaction ratings attest to their standard of customer service and ability to fill orders in a timely manner.

Best: School Supplies

Moms and dads have mixed feelings about back to school shopping. On the one hand, it’s exciting that the kids will be getting out of the house and going back to school once more.  It can also be a stressful time for many families, as those back to school supply lists keep getting longer every year.

Walmart has brand name school supplies at very low prices, so this is the place to shop when it comes to stocking up on all the necessities like glue, crayons, and sketchbooks.  With all of your extra savings, check out the backpack aisle before you leave; nothing rounds out a great start to the year like a good backpack.

Worst: Diapers

Discount diapers might be an appealing option for those of us with tight budgets, but they never work quite as well as brand name diapers. Try as they may, Walmart has not been able to competitively price their brand name diapers.

You’re better off signing up for a diaper subscription service with Amazon or another provider; they sometimes piggyback on already low prices with coupons that can save you up to 25% more. You’ll be going through a lot of them, so it pays to find a good service.

Best: Basic Kids Clothing

Let’s face it– kids are tough on clothing. Dirt, mud, ketchup, and various holes leave even the cutest outfit dingy and dirty after just a few wears and washes. While most of us would prefer to outfit our precious ones with only the best, we need to think comfort and affordability with items that we will have to replace often.

Walmart kids clothing is competitively priced, comfortable, and stylish. With top and leggings separates coming in at anywhere from 3 to $5 each oh, it’s much more conceivable to replace these items on a regular basis then a designer outfit costing upwards of $50. Stick with the basics and save the dress items for picture day and holidays.

Worst: Video Games

Walmart may have an abundance of video game titles, but that doesn’t mean you’re getting the best deal on them. Amazon.com has new and gently used games for lower prices than you can find on store shelves.

For example, Foriza Horizon, a popular racing game, retails for $52 on store shelves, and you are able to find the exact game on Amazon for $47 new, even cheaper if you buy used.   Hold on to your coin and start saving up for the latest Xbox update; you’ll need it with some of the upcoming game technology soon to be released.

Best: Mattresses

Don’t be a snob when it comes to shopping around for a new mattress. Many people think designer furniture stores have a monopoly on designer mattress offerings. The same savvy shoppers would be surprised to discover that Walmart has some pretty good deals on very respectable sleep furniture.

These high-quality mattresses offered by Walmart can be purchased for right around $300. You can sleep with a clean conscience, knowing that you did not overpay and you are getting very high quality for a very reasonable price.

Worst: Meat

If you are stuck at Walmart and have no other choice, it might be acceptable to purchase meat and fish from the grocery department.  All other circumstances require an additional trip to a more reputable grocer for this item.

Even Walmart’s Wagyu beef ribeye steak is priced at almost fifty percent lower than competing grocery chains and butcher shops.  While you might be tempted to purchase at such a savings, the price alone is suspicious.  How can they afford such a markdown?

Worst: Magazines

Walmart and other chain retailers know that convenience items such as magazines, gum, and other things found in checkout lanes can be priced a bit higher, since people would not normally shop for these items alone.

For that reason, you’re better off signing up for a subscription to your favorite magazine titles.  You will not only experience the convenience of having them delivered straight to your door, you’ll experience significant savings when you sign up for a year-long subscription.

Best: Camping And Fitness Equipment

Casual family camping just got accessible with Walmart brand Ozark’s camping supplies.  Cookware, tents, and other outdoor gear are competitively priced, and they hold up well under “normal” camping circumstances.  If you want to follow Bear Grylls down a mountain trail, consider purchasing something more heavy-duty.

Fitness gear is also a steal at Walmart superstores; the average Joe—or Joanna–can find weights, kettlebells, and other fitness equipment to stock the gym with that will improve health without breaking the bank.

Worst: Household Appliances

Walmart does not have a stellar reputation for selling household appliances such as washing machines and refrigerators.

Larger retailers such as Best Buy and Home Depot can offer a greater variety of appliance options, as well as service plans and warranties to cover repairs.  Make this larger purchase an investment that will stand the test of time; steer clear of Walmart when shopping for your next chest freezer.

Worst: Fish

Right up there with the meat category, Walmart consumers do not speak highly of the fish department. According to recent Consumer Reports surveys, many shoppers, even devoted Walmart patrons, steer clear of meat and fish items when purchasing for their households.

When it comes to groceries, you tend to get what you pay for. Purchasing higher quality meats means providing better food and better nutrition for your families. Find a reputable butcher or grocer and develop a profitable purchasing relationship that benefits all.

Worst: Wrapping Paper

Don’t plan on impressing anyone at your next birthday party with Walmart brand wrapping paper. When it comes to gift wrap and party supplies, Walmart offerings are on par with many local dollar stores.

Even so, you’ll end up paying much more than dollar store prices when purchasing party items at Walmart. Consider purchasing up or visit your local dollar store for additional savings on the same supplies.

Worst: Books And Music

Move over Walmart; Amazon’s got you beat once more. any store item in the book and music department can be found on Amazon for a much better deal.

If you’re not picky about used books, it’s hard to be Amazon’s bargain-basement prices. Even best-selling books that are gently used are sold for a fraction of their list price in stores. If you are a Prime member, you’ll enjoy even greater savings with free shipping and two-day delivery on most items.

Worst: Jewelry

We’ve all been past it, and we’ve tried not to look. Viewing Walmart jewelry offerings is like viewing your grandmother’s costume jewelry from the forties; it tends to be garish, poorly set, and overpriced.

And let’s face it—no one wants to open a box of diamond earrings from Walmart; skip the bargain bling and go for something that really makes your heart sing.

Worst: Toys

Walmart’s toy selection may be second to none, but the prices are not the best in the biz. Some of their cheaper items may look appealing, but under the extreme stress placed on these items by children, they don’t last very long.

You’re more likely to find good deals on toys if you shop on Amazon from the comfort of your living room. Sip some coffee on a Saturday morning and stay in your pjs; get your Christmas shopping done early this year and shop online.

Best: Baby Gear

Baby gear is seriously expensive!  Between cribs, car seats, and daily items, you can plan on spending much of your hard-earned money on your precious little ones.

Strollers, pajamas, and formula are much more affordable at Walmart than in other retail stores; look for manufacturer and store coupons to capitalize on the good deals and save on your baby essentials.

Worst: Nuts And Seeds

Nuts, seeds, and products containing these nutrient-packed ingredients are hot commodities right now—it’s too bad that Walmart is not offering the best price on these hot ticket snacks.

You’re much more likely to find better deals on nut and seed products at Trader Joe’s or Aldi; check out their delicious offerings at bargain prices to stock your pantry with delicious goodness.

Worst: Laptops

When it comes to electronics, Walmart does not offer super savings.  Not only are prices not the lowest around, but the quality of many of their items is subpar when compared to other retailers.

You’re better off going with an established chain like Best Buy or Computer Center for your laptop needs; you’ll be able to purchase warranties for parts and service that are well worth the few extra dollars that you’ll spend for protection.

Best: Arts And Craft Supplies

Walmart has an abundance of art and craft supplies that are competitively priced and comparable to most specialty art supply stores.

Pre-packaged craft kits, fabric and sewing centers, and other artsy offerings inspire Walmart shoppers to express their creativity while saving some serious cash. Indulge your inner artist and pick up a few extra art essentials on your next shopping trip.

Best: Legos

Anyone who has a Lego fan at their house knows that Legos do not come cheap. Even a modest box or kit weighs in at almost $20 to $30.

Fortunately, Walmart shoppers can capitalize on their tendency to offer bargain deals on brand name products by picking up their next Lego gift in stores. Not only will shoppers experience significant savings, they are likely to find exactly what they are looking for.

Best: Pickles

Pregnant ladies and pickle fans unite! Pickles are a favorite side dish for burger lovers, those who love a bit of crunch, and those who favor sweet and sour flavors. Fortunately, you are able to indulge all of these cravings at rock bottom prices with Walmart offerings.

Stock up on spears, whole pickles, and even hamburger dills for your next picnic gathering. Shelf life is long, and taste and flavor are second to none with brand name items.

Best: Walmart Family Mobile

Forget what you heard about Straight Talk Wireless; Walmart family mobile plan is completely different when it comes to sales quality, service, and coverage.

Not only are there no-contract offerings, you can get excellent coverage at bargain prices starting at $25 per month, no roaming or overage charges. With deals like that, everyone can afford to have a quality phone plan in their hands.