Target has carved out a unique niche in the retail landscape, becoming a beloved one-stop shop for millions. It’s a place where you might pop in for toilet paper and olive oil, only to walk out with a new set of pajamas, a frying pan, and a dozen other appealing items you didn’t initially plan to buy. The clean, well-organized aisles, competitive pricing on many products, and overall pleasant shopping experience often make it feel like a slightly more upscale version of other big-box stores.
Yet, for all its convenience and charm, not everything on Target’s shelves offers the best bang for your buck. Beneath the appealing displays and clever marketing, some items are consistently overpriced, of lower quality, or simply better sourced elsewhere. Understanding these hidden pitfalls can significantly impact your budget and satisfaction, transforming you from an impulse buyer into a truly smart shopper.
To help you navigate Target’s expansive offerings with a more critical eye, we’ve consulted retail experts and seasoned shoppers to identify 15 categories where you’re often better off taking your money elsewhere. Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge to make more informed decisions.
1. **Greeting Cards**When it comes to those seemingly small purchases that quickly add up, greeting cards at Target are a prime example. While convenient to grab at the checkout, these cards can range anywhere from $4 to $7 each. This price point, as money-saving expert Andrea Woroch points out, makes them a surprisingly costly item, especially when you consider their single-use nature.
The savvy shopper knows there’s a much more budget-friendly alternative: the dollar store. There, you can find greeting cards for as little as $0.50 apiece. Woroch offers a smart strategy: plan ahead for 6 to 12 months, thinking about all upcoming events, holidays, and celebrations. Stock up on generic birthday cards, which work perfectly for any person, and other necessary greetings well in advance.
By taking a few extra minutes to visit a dollar store or plan your purchases, you can achieve significant savings over time. It’s a simple hack that ensures you’re not overspending on an item that is ultimately torn open and discarded, allowing you to allocate those savings to more meaningful parts of your gift.
2. **Gift Wrap & Party Supplies**If you’re already spending $7 on a greeting card, adding another $5.50 for wrapping paper means you could be shelling out nearly as much on the presentation as on the gift itself. This scenario is all too common at Target, where gift wrap, bags, tissue paper, and party supplies like balloons and decorations tend to carry a higher price tag than necessary.
Andrea Woroch advises that while Walmart might offer slightly cheaper options than Target, the true savings for gift bags and tissue paper are found at the dollar store. These items, often used just once for a celebration, can be acquired at a fraction of the cost without compromising the festive spirit. Dollar stores even boast cute character balloons and decorations perfect for kids’ parties.
For those seeking higher quality, thicker wrapping paper, Woroch suggests discount stores like T.J. Maxx or Ross. Here, you can find nicer quality materials for less, ensuring your gifts look elegant without breaking the bank. By diversifying your shopping locations for these short-lived items, you can dramatically cut down on party expenses.
3. **Craft Supplies**Target can be a tempting stop for various household needs, but when it comes to stocking up on craft supplies, it’s generally not your best bet for value or selection. While you might easily find basic items like Crayola markers for kids, the range of specific craft goods is notably limited, and the prices can be higher than at dedicated craft retailers.
Consumer analyst Julie Ramhold emphasizes that for serious crafters or those seeking particular items, heading to a specialized craft store like Michael’s or Jo-Ann is a far superior strategy. These stores not only offer a much broader selection of items, from paint brushes and acrylic paints to stitching supplies, but they also regularly provide plentiful coupons and sales.
This means you can often score significant deals on high-quality materials that Target simply doesn’t carry. Empower yourself by making a targeted trip to a craft store, where you’ll find everything you need and save money in the process, ensuring your creative endeavors are both well-stocked and budget-friendly.
4. **Pet Supplies**For many pet owners, Target’s pet aisle might seem like a convenient stop for food, toys, leashes, or litterboxes. However, this department typically offers a much more limited selection compared to specialized pet stores or larger retailers focused on pet care. This constraint means fewer options in terms of brands, sizes, and specific needs, such as specialized food for animals with dietary restrictions.
Retail experts consistently advise looking beyond Target for pet essentials. Andrea Woroch highlights that you’ll secure a much better deal when purchasing bulk packages of pet food from warehouse stores like Costco or Sam’s Club. Furthermore, setting up auto-shipments of your favorite pet foods from online pet retailers like Chewy can often qualify you for additional discounts, adding another layer of savings.
Prices for pet supplies at Target may also not be as competitive as those found in pet-specific stores or online retailers, which frequently run sales or special deals. By considering these alternative shopping channels, you can ensure your furry friends receive the best products without putting an unnecessary strain on your wallet.
5. **Books**While browsing Target’s book section might seem appealing, especially with new releases prominently displayed, it’s generally not the most economical place to expand your library. Several experts universally advise against purchasing books from Target, citing both price and selection as key reasons to shop elsewhere.
For those who prefer to own their books, Andrea Woroch suggests exploring online platforms like ThriftBooks.com, where you can find gently used options for a mere fraction of the price. This approach allows you to enjoy a wide variety of titles without the premium cost of new books.
Beyond price, the sheer volume of titles available at online giants like Amazon and dedicated bookstores like Barnes & Noble far surpasses Target’s limited inventory. For an even more budget-friendly and sustainable option, don’t forget your local library, which offers an endless supply of reading material for free. Making these informed choices ensures your love for reading doesn’t become an expensive habit.
6. **Gift Cards**Gift cards are often seen as the ultimate convenience for gifting, and Target, like other big-box and grocery stores, keeps an enticing inventory near the registers. However, this convenience comes at a cost, as you’re typically paying the full list price, which isn’t the best deal available. Savvy shoppers know there are smarter ways to purchase these plastic tokens of generosity.
Consumer analyst Julie Ramhold points out that warehouse clubs like Costco frequently offer gift cards at a discount below face value. For instance, you might find $100 worth of gift cards for $80, a clear advantage over Target’s list pricing. Online marketplaces such as Raise or Card Cash also allow you to buy and sell gift cards, often saving you between 5 to 20 percent off the card’s value.
Furthermore, there have been concerns regarding the authenticity of gift cards sold at Target. A class-action lawsuit in March 2023 alleged the sale of fake Apple gift cards, reportedly due to scammers swapping out real cards for fakes. While Target may not be directly at fault, it’s a stark reminder to exercise caution and consider more secure, value-driven alternatives when purchasing gift cards.
7. **Target Brand Diapers**For parents looking to save money, Target’s Up & Up diapers might seem like an attractive, less expensive alternative to brand names like Huggies and Pampers. However, independent testing has revealed that lower cost doesn’t always equate to better value, especially when it comes to such a critical item for baby care.
GearLab Baby, after comprehensive testing, found that Up & Up diapers “did not perform well in our tests for absorption or leaks, two critical performance metrics for diapering.” They further noted that the product is “not eco-friendly nor free of common skin irritants.” These findings highlight significant flaws in the diaper’s ability to effectively trap liquids and keep them away from a baby’s skin.
While the upfront savings may be appealing, the potential for leaks, discomfort, and skin irritations can lead to increased laundry, more frequent changes, and potentially unhappy babies. For a more reliable and equally budget-friendly option, consider warehouse club brands like Costco’s Kirkland, which often provide a better balance of quality, performance, and cost.
8. **Name-Brand Medications**After Target’s pharmacy section was acquired by CVS in 2015, the chain discontinued its rewards program, leading to name-brand medications becoming less competitively priced. This shift made purchasing over-the-counter (OTC) medications at Target a less advantageous choice, especially when compared to store-brand varieties.
The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) provides crucial guidance on this matter, stating that “FDA-approved generic medicines work in the same way and provide the same clinical benefit and risks as their brand-name counterparts.” A generic medicine is rigorously required to be identical to a brand-name medicine in dosage, safety, effectiveness, strength, stability, and quality, as well as in the way it is taken.
This means that opting for Target’s store-brand generic medications, or generics at any pharmacy, can offer significant savings without compromising on efficacy or safety. It’s a smart financial decision to choose the store-brand variety for OTC needs, reserving your spending for other items where brand differentiation truly matters.
Navigating the aisles of Target can be an enjoyable experience, a delightful hunt for both necessities and those unexpected treasures. However, as we delve deeper into the store’s offerings, it becomes clear that for bigger ticket items, specialized purchases, and certain crucial categories, stepping outside Target’s welcoming red doors can lead to significant savings and superior quality. Let’s uncover the remaining seven items you might want to reconsider adding to your cart, ensuring your shopping strategy is as sharp as your budget is healthy.
9. **Electronics**While Target boasts an impressive lineup of electronics, from TVs to gaming consoles and kitchen appliances like toasters and microwaves, it’s generally not the optimal choice for your major tech purchases. The convenience of grabbing a new gadget while picking up groceries often overshadows the potential for better deals and wider selections found elsewhere.
Jeanel Alvarado, founder and CEO of Retail Boss, notes, “You can often find better deals and a wider selection at specialized electronics retailers or online stores like Amazon and Best Buy.” These dedicated stores often have more competitive pricing strategies, especially for higher-end models, and run frequent sales that Target simply can’t match. Additionally, Alvarado points out that “these specialized retailers may offer better customer service and more knowledgeable staff when it comes to electronics,” providing invaluable support for complex purchases.
Unless you’re strategically planning to shop during one of Target’s holiday blowout sales, which can offer occasional good finds, it’s best to make your big tech investments elsewhere. Comparing prices online from specialized retailers is a smart move to ensure you’re getting the most bang for your buck, paired with expert advice.
10. **Electronics Accessories**Beyond the major electronic devices themselves, the accessories that power and connect them are another category where Target’s convenience can come at a premium. Think about those essential cables, chargers, and adapters that always seem to be needed at the most inconvenient times.
Smart shopping expert Trae Bodge, from TrueTrae, suggests that for tech accessories like cables and chargers, you’re better off looking beyond Target. She highlights that “these items are generally priced better at Amazon,” making it a more economical choice for your everyday tech needs.
Furthermore, the ability to specify exact requirements online, ensuring compatibility and quality, often simplifies the shopping experience. For more specialized items, the sheer variety and detailed product descriptions on platforms like Amazon can guarantee you buy the right item for your specific needs, avoiding the frustration of ill-fitting or subpar accessories.
11. **KitchenAid Stand Mixers**For many home bakers and culinary enthusiasts, a KitchenAid stand mixer is a dream appliance, an investment in quality and versatility. While Target might carry these popular mixers, assuming you’re getting a good deal there could lead to missing out on significant savings and extra value.
According to an April 2023 article by She Finds, at Target, the popular 5-quart KitchenAid Professional Stand Mixer is priced at $450, and typically includes three standard attachments: a paddle, whisk, and dough hook. This seems like a reasonable offer at first glance, but a direct comparison reveals a stark difference in value.
Conversely, the article points out that “at Costco, you can get the 6-quart version for just $399.99.” Not only does Costco offer a larger capacity mixer at a lower price, but it also bundles in more accessories, including the standard dough hook, whisk, and paddle, plus a flex edge beater and a pouring shield to prevent ingredient spills. This makes the warehouse club a far superior choice for this coveted kitchen essential.
12. **Nespresso Machines**Similar to KitchenAid mixers, Nespresso machines represent another specialized kitchen investment where the allure of Target’s display might mask better deals elsewhere. These popular coffee and espresso makers are a staple for many, promising barista-quality beverages at home.
She Finds also conducted a price comparison for Nespresso machines, revealing that Target’s offerings might not be the most advantageous. For example, the Nespresso VertuoPlus Deluxe Coffee and Espresso Maker, bundled with 16 coffee capsules, is priced at $189.99 at Target. This seems like a straightforward deal for a quality machine.
However, the same source highlights that “at Costco, you can snag the same java machine at the same price,” but with a substantial array of additional benefits. The Costco bundle includes an Aeroccino three-milk frother, 32 coffee capsules (double Target’s offering), two recycling bags, and a $40 voucher to Nespresso.com. This makes Costco’s offer a significantly better value proposition, empowering you to brew more and save more.
13. **Decorative Pillows**Target’s home decor section, especially its aisle dedicated to decorative pillows, is often a vibrant and tempting spectacle. The fun colors, whimsical patterns, and varied shapes can easily inspire an impulse purchase, promising to instantly refresh your living space. Yet, beneath their attractive exterior lies a potential trap for value and practicality.
Money-saving expert Andrea Woroch sheds light on the hidden shortcomings of many Target throw pillows. She points out that “most of the throw pillows she’s seen at Target do not have a zipper,” which is a crucial detail. This design flaw means you can’t easily remove the cover to wash it, making maintenance a hassle and limiting the product’s longevity.
Furthermore, Woroch adds that Target often uses “cheap fillers that are not really as comfortable as a down or down alternative pillow insert.” The lack of a zipper means you don’t even have the option to swap out the insert for higher-quality, more comfortable stuffing. For truly high-quality decorative pillows that offer both comfort and durability, she suggests exploring discount home stores like HomeGoods or Marshalls, or even outlet stores for brands like Pottery Barn, where you can find better value.
14. **Women’s Clothing**While Target’s clothing sections often feature trendy and appealing styles for women, many seasoned shoppers and retail experts advise caution. The initial appeal of the designs and convenience of a one-stop shop often don’t translate into lasting value or quality.
The Minimal Mom, a popular YouTube personality, specifically advises against purchasing women’s clothing at Target, stating, “Nothing has stood the test of time. Nothing has proven itself to be something that I really like.” She also notes that the pricing can be quite high for the quality offered. This sentiment is echoed by numerous shoppers in online comments, who frequently report that Target clothes do not last, quickly losing shape or fading after just a few washes.
Beyond durability, shoppers should also be aware of potential issues with returned items. According to one user, clothes are sometimes returned and then “repackaged” or sold “as is” on clearance stickers. While Target may not be directly at fault for such occurrences, it’s a reminder to always inspect clothing carefully, especially for undergarments, and to thoroughly wash all new clothes before wearing them, regardless of where they are purchased. For better value and quality that endures, exploring alternative retailers that specialize in apparel or offer more robust materials is a smarter move.
15. **Meat**For many busy shoppers, grabbing meat from Target’s grocery section offers ultimate convenience. It fits seamlessly into a broader shopping trip, saving an extra stop at a dedicated butcher or supermarket. However, when it comes to quality, selection, and overall value for your protein purchases, Target often falls short.
In a ranking of meat selections at chain grocery stores, Tasting Table notably placed Target in last place. Their primary criticisms centered on the notably small selection available and, crucially, the absence of an on-site butcher. This means all meat is pre-packaged, limiting freshness and customization options that many consumers value.
The most revealing detail, however, lies in the sourcing. Tasting Table reports that Target’s meat originates from “Thomas Foods, the same meat provider as Walmart and Safeway.” This critical piece of information empowers you to make a more informed choice: if the quality and source are identical to other large retailers, you’re better off shopping at Walmart or Safeway for more options and potentially more affordable prices, ensuring you get fresh, quality cuts without the Target premium.
By keeping these insights in mind, you can transform your Target runs from impulsive grabs to strategic hauls. The goal isn’t to abandon your favorite big-box store entirely, but to approach each aisle with a discerning eye. Knowing where to save and where to splurge, and understanding the true value proposition of each item, empowers you to be a savvier shopper.
