Savvy consumers are aware that not everything sold at Target provides great value for the money. Some products provide great value while others can be found at better prices at other stores. With the help of a dozen Target employees, I explore what to buy and what to avoid.

First…let’s talk about the 10 BEST things to buy at Target…

1. Home Décor

Target’s home décor section is a treasure trove for anyone looking to spruce up their living space on a budget.

In particular, their in-house brands like Threshold, Opalhouse, and Hearth & Hand with Magnolia offer stylish, high-quality pieces at reasonable prices.

“Home décor clearance on our in-house brands is the best at the end of each season, usually in late January, July, and October,” says Tina, a friendly Target employee I chatted with. “Also, always check the end caps of aisles—that’s where we put most of the markdowns.”

PRO TIP: USE TARGET CIRCLE REGULARLY

Target’s free loyalty program, Target Circle, offers personalized deals, coupons, and 1% back on purchases.

Regularly check the app for discounts on items you’re planning to buy.

2. Generic and Store-Brand Products

Target’s private labels, like Good & Gather, Up & Up, and Market Pantry, are known for their quality and affordability.

These brands often match or exceed the quality of national brands but cost significantly less.

“Honestly, just go for the Target brands,” says Emily, a Target employee. “Good & Gather, Up & Up—they’re basically the same as the name brands, but your wallet won’t hate you for it.”

PRO TIP: TARGET BRANDS HAVE A 1-YEAR RETURN POLICY

The Target return policy stipulates that all of their store brands come with an extremely generous 1-year return policy.

3. Seasonal and Holiday Items

Whether it’s Halloween costumes, Christmas decorations, or back-to-school supplies, Target’s seasonal section is well-stocked with unique and affordable items.

“After Christmas, our holiday décor goes on clearance, starting at 50% off and eventually dropping to 70% or even 90% off,” shared a Target employee. “If you want the best selection, shop right after Christmas, but if you’re looking for the biggest savings, wait a few days into January.”

PRO TIP: SHOP CLEARANCE AND END CAPS

Target’s clearance items are often tucked away on end caps (the shelves at the ends of aisles). These sections can be a goldmine for heavily discounted items.

4. Clothing and Accessories

Target’s apparel offerings have significantly improved over the years. With brands like Universal Thread, A New Day, and All in Motion, you’ll find stylish, comfortable, and affordable clothing for the whole family.

“The clearance rack is a goldmine,” says an employee I chatted with from the apparel department. “Keep an eye out for yellow or red clearance stickers on tags—these often indicate multiple markdowns, and the lower the last digit (e.g., $9.98 vs. $9.99), the closer the item is to being fully discounted.”

5. Beauty and Personal Care Products

The beauty section at Target is a goldmine for affordable and effective products. They carry a mix of drugstore staples and premium brands, including an expanding selection of clean and cruelty-free options.

“Kristin Ess products are a customer favorite,” said Maria who restocks beauty products. “Many people come here specifically for those because they’re salon-quality but really inexpensive.”

6. Baby Essentials

Parents love Target for its reliable and affordable baby products. From diapers and wipes to baby food and gear, Target’s baby section is stocked with trusted brands and competitively priced store-brand alternatives.

“The best way to save is to watch for Target’s gift card promotions,” according to an employee I talked with. “We often run deals like spend $100 on diapers and wipes, get a $20 gift card.”

PRO TIP: CAR SEAT TRADE-IN COUPON

Twice a year, Target hosts car seat trade-in events where you can bring in old or expired car seats and receive a 20% coupon.

The coupon can be used in-store or online for a new car seat, stroller, travel system, or other select baby gear.

Exact dates may vary, so keep an eye on Target’s website, app, or social media for announcements.

7. Kitchenware

If you’re looking to upgrade your kitchen without breaking the bank, Target is an excellent place to shop. Brands like Made By Design and Room Essentials offer functional and stylish kitchen tools, cookware, and dinnerware at affordable prices.

“Kitchenware goes on clearance at the end of each season, especially after big holidays like Thanksgiving or Christmas,” says Sarah, a Target employee. “Check the clearance end caps in the kitchen section, and don’t forget to look for sales on Target-exclusive brands like Threshold or Hearth & Hand.”

PRO TIP: DON’T FORGET ABOUT A PRICE MATCH

Target’s price match policy allows you to get the best price if you find a lower price at select competitors. Always check online before making a big purchase.

8. Electronics and Tech Accessories

Target frequently runs promotions on electronics and tech accessories, making it a good spot to snag deals on items like headphones, smart home devices, and gaming accessories.

“Always check for clearance deals on end caps near the electronics section,” shares Alex, a Target employee. “We also mark down display models or older versions when new ones come in—just ask a team member about open-box deals.’”

PRO TIP: LOOK FOR APPLE PROMOS

Be sure to keep an eye on Target’s weekly ad for gift card promotions, things like “Buy an Apple product and get a $50 gift card”  are fairly common.

9. Books and Board Games

Target’s book section often features bestsellers and exclusive editions at discounted prices. It’s also a great place to pick up board games and puzzles, especially during sales or with Target Circle offers.

“The exclusive editions are a big draw,” says an associate from the entertainment section. “People often come here for special covers or bonus content.”

PRO TIP: TIMING MATTERS

Target’s markdown schedule varies by department, but many items are marked down on specific days of the week.

For example, electronics are often discounted on Mondays, while clothing sees markdowns on Tuesdays.

10. Groceries

While not the cheapest grocery store, Target’s food section can be a convenient option for pantry staples, snacks, and frozen foods.

“The best way to save is to use Target Circle,” says Amanda, a Target employee. “There are always discounts on pantry stuff, fresh produce, and even meat. Also, check for buy-one-get-one-free deals and gift card promotions, like ‘Spend $50 on groceries, get a $10 gift card’.”

And now the WORST things to buy at Target…

1. Furniture

While Target’s furniture is stylish and affordable, the quality can be hit or miss.

“Our furniture is great for decoration,” says a store associate. “But for long-term or heavy use, customers might want to look at specialized furniture stores.”

2. Fresh Produce and Meat

Target’s grocery section is convenient, but its fresh produce and meat are not always the best value.

“Our selection is smaller,” says a grocery associate. “It’s better for quick pickups than for stocking a full freezer.”

PRO TIP: SIGN-UP FOR THE RED CARD

The Target RedCard gives you 5% off every purchase, free shipping on most online orders, and an extended return period.

If you’re a frequent shopper, the savings can add up quickly.

3. Fitness Equipment

Target is often not the best place for fitness equipment because the selection is limited and the quality often sucks compared to items from dedicated fitness retailers.

Expert advice on choosing the right gear is usually lacking too.

“Target’s fine if you just need a yoga mat or some light dumbbells,” says Emily, a Target employee. “But if you’re trying to build a legit home gym, you’re gonna want to go somewhere that actually knows fitness gear.”

4. High-End Electronics

While Target offers decent deals on smaller tech items, it’s not the best place for high-end electronics like TVs, laptops, or cameras.

“Target’s not really the place for high-end stuff,” says Josh. “We don’t carry a lot of the premium models, and the prices are usually the same as everywhere else—just without the perks. We’re better for mid-range stuff or when we have a good deal.”

PRO TIP: LOOK FOR OPEN BOX DEALS

Target often discounts open-box or slightly damaged items, particularly in electronics and furniture. These items are usually in good condition and can save you a significant amount.

Also, you can often negotiate the price on these items and ask for an additional 15% discount. Most managers want this stuff out of the store and are willing to work with you on the price.

5. Toys

Target’s toy section is fun to browse, but the prices are not always competitive.

“Honestly, Target’s toy prices aren’t that great most of the time,” says Amanda. “You can usually find the same stuff cheaper online or during big sales at other stores. Plus, we don’t always have the best selection, especially around the holidays when things sell out fast.”

6. Tools and Hardware

Target’s selection of tools and hardware is limited and often priced higher than stores like Lowe’s, Home Depot, or Harbor Freight.

“If you’re buying tools at Target, you’re probably just desperate,” jokes Mike. “We’ve got a hammer, a screwdriver, and maybe some duct tape.”

PRO TIP: DON’T FORGET TO STACK COUPONS

Target allows you to stack manufacturer coupons with store coupons and Target Circle offers.

Combine these with your RedCard discount to maximize savings on a single purchase.

7. Jewelry

While Target’s fashion jewelry is affordable and trendy, its fine jewelry offerings are not the best value.

“Our jewelry is great for casual wear,” shares a jewelry department worker. “But for special occasions, customers tend to shop elsewhere.”

8. Specialty Kitchen Appliances

Target’s prices on specialty kitchen appliances, like espresso machines or stand mixers, are often higher than those at warehouse clubs or online retailers.

“We carry the basics,” says a team member. “But for high-end appliances, people often shop online or at specialized stores.”

PRO TIP: ALWAYS SHOP AFTER CHRISTMAS

Holiday-themed merchandise is ALWAYS heavily discounted at Target in the days following Christmas making it a great time to shop.

Stock up on decorations, candy, and other seasonal items for next year at up to 90% off.

9. Pet Supplies

While Target carries a decent variety of pet products, they’re not always the most cost-effective option or have the best selection.

“I’ve heard that online stores have better deals,” says a pet supplies associate. “But people like the convenience of grabbing items here.”

10. Party Supplies

Target’s party supplies are convenient but often more expensive than discount retailers like Dollar Tree or Dollar General.

“We hear this from customers occasionally,” says an employee from the seasonal section. “But our selection is good if you’re already here shopping.”

Ask the Reader: Do you agree or disagree with these good and day buys? Let me know in the comments what I missed.

By Kyle James

When Amazon launched Amazon Haul in November of 2024, it aimed to compete with budget-friendly shopping platforms like Temu. While it introduces affordability to Amazon’s ecosystem, Amazon Haul struggles to measure up to Temu in several key areas. Here’s a full breakdown and comparison so you bargain hunters can decide for yourself.

1. Product Selection

Amazon Haul

Amazon Haul boasts a curated collection of low-cost items priced at $20 or less, but this limited selection leaves much to be desired.

The range of products is narrow, primarily focusing on basic essentials.

I browsed the Haul interface for 10 minutes and was not impressed with the variety of items that were for sale, it felt like I was shopping at Dollar Tree but the prices were in the $2.50 to $6 range.

Also, the Haul platform can only be accessed via the Amazon app making it a little less accessible to older folks who aren’t smartphone and tablet savvy.

Temu

Temu offers an overwhelming variety of products across every imaginable category.

From quirky gadgets to niche household items, Temu caters to a broader audience with more options for customization and unique finds.

After browsing Temu for a few short minutes, I had 8 things in my shopping cart, ready to buy. They included work gloves, socks, a WAY cool little drone, and a dog bed for our Labradoodle.

Verdict: If you want variety, Temu easily wins.

See Also: 15 Brilliant Ways to Save at Temu

TEMU WINS ON VARIETY FOR ONE SIMPLE REASON

Amazon does NOT want their Haul business to cut into their regular shopping platform.

So it makes perfect sense that they’re going to offer a very limited selection of products. But for Haul to stick around, they’re going to need to up their product selection or I think this little experiment is not going to be around for long.

2. Prices

I checked the pricing on 25 different products on both Haul and Temu.

Products included a HDMI cable, a jump rope, table runner, sunglasses, flip flops, pill organizer, decorative lights, and an Apple Watch band.

The prices on Temu were cheaper on 22 of the 25 items.

Verdict: For true budget-friendly shopping, Temu’s pricing structure crushes Amazon Haul.

PRO TIP: TEMU WILL ALSO DO PRICE ADJUSTMENTS

After you place your order, Temu will give you money back via a price adjustment if they lower the price on something you bought within 30 days.

Simply go into your account, go to your order, and tap on “Price Adjustment” and they’ll automatically credit your account if the price dropped on something you bought, even if you haven’t received the item yet.

It’s free money, be sure to take advantage as the prices on Temu are very fluid.

3. Shipping Costs and Times

Amazon Haul: Despite being part of the Amazon ecosystem, Haul doesn’t offer Prime shipping benefits.

Orders over $25 ship for free, while orders under $25 incur a $3.99 fee.

Also, shipping times are surprisingly long, ranging from 1–2 weeks.

Temu: Temu’s shipping times are similar (7–21 days), but most orders qualify for free shipping without any minimum purchase requirement.

Verdict: Temu delivers a better deal by providing free shipping without strings attached.

EVERYTHING IS SHIPPED FROM CHINA

Both Haul and Temu ship the products they sell direct from China which is why their shipping times are on the longer side.

So if you’re someone who likes to buy U.S. made products you’ll probably not be a huge fan of either shopping platform.

4. Discounts

Amazon Haul: Discounts are minimal and tied to bulk orders (5% off over $50 and 10% off over $75).

For single-item purchases, there’s little incentive.

Temu: Temu is a discount powerhouse, offering frequent flash sales, coupons, gamified shopping rewards, and referral bonuses that keep costs low.

Verdict: Temu’s frequent promotions and gamified savings make Amazon Haul’s discounts look negligible.

5. Shopping Experience

Amazon Haul: The interface is straightforward but lacks engaging features.

There are NO customer reviews or detailed descriptions available, leaving buyers in the dark about product quality.

Temu: Temu’s app gamifies the shopping experience, offering spin-to-win games, referral codes, and rewards that keep users engaged and incentivized.

Temu also has very good product reviews written by shoppers along with pictures that often help you decide if the product is of good quality.

Verdict: Temu’s interactive shopping experience outshines Amazon Haul’s plain, unremarkable interface.

PRO TIP: MAKE TEMU REVIEWS YOUR BEST FRIEND

I had a brilliant comment left by a lady named Robin on my article about the Temu return policy that I need to share.

It’s all about reading the Temu reviews and looking closely at the photos in the reviews, especially when buying clothing.

Commenter Robin said, “The fabric of the actual clothes are not what it looks like in the displayed photo. A photo may look like linen, cotton, or jersey, but it mostly likely some type of polyester. So be sure to view all of the photos and look at photos on reviews if you can. Eventually you get the hang of what the fabrics will be like after some returns. The prints can seriously fool you too. It can look like a top or dress has embroidered elements and then it arrives and it is printed on the material.”

Temu has a HUGE advantage over Amazon Haul by actually encouraging shoppers to leave reviews and photos. Savvy shoppers can then use that information to decode what products are of good quality.

6. Value for Low-Cost Shoppers

Amazon Haul: The $25 minimum for free shipping and lack of consistent ultra-low-priced items make Amazon Haul less appealing to thrifty shoppers like myself.

Temu: With free shipping, no membership fees, and a focus on dollar-store-level pricing, Temu is better for shoppers looking for extreme value.

Verdict: Temu offers better value for smaller purchases, making it ideal for us frugal-minded shoppers.

PRO TIP: BE CAUTIOUS WITH HIGH TICKET ITEMS

Exercise caution when purchasing high-ticket items like electronics or furniture from Temu. Quality and durability may not match those of established brands, and returns can a major pain in the butt on big items like furniture.

7. Return Policy

Amazon Haul: Returns are free for purchases over $3 within 15 days of delivery. While reasonable, it pales in comparison to Amazon’s main platform and can feel restrictive.

Also, anything priced at $3 or less on Amazon Haul is considered Final Sale and is NOT returnable or refundable.

Temu: Temu offers a 90-day return policy, which is significantly longer. However, they only allow 1 free return per order.

So if you buy multiple items, return one of them, then decide later you want to return something else, you’ll be hit with a return shipping fee that is dependent on the size and weight of the item you want to return.

Verdict: While both platforms have their flaws, Temu’s longer return window gives it an edge.

PRO TIP: HOLD ON TO ALL PACKAGING

To make your Amazon Haul or Temu return much easier, hold on to ALL original packaging and bags.

These bags have the product’s UPC and barcode on them and are required for making a return in most instances.

If you lose the bag, you can place the item in a Ziploc and write the UPC number of the item on the Ziploc with a Sharpie. You can usually find the UPC on the invoice or receipt that came with your original package.

The Verdict…Temu Easily Wins

1. Better Prices: Temu consistently undercuts Amazon Haul on product prices.

2. Wider Selection: A massive product catalog at Temu ensures you’ll find something unique.

3. Free Shipping: No minimum order amount required for free shipping on Temu.

4. Gamified Shopping: Interactive features make the experience fun and engaging.

5. Frequent Discounts: Coupons, flash sales, and referral bonuses make Temu a savings paradise.

Amazon Haul’s debut is underwhelming compared to the more established Temu. Its limited selection, mediocre discounts, and lack of Prime perks make it feel like an afterthought in Amazon’s lineup.

If you’re looking for affordability, variety, and a little excitement, Temu is the better choice by far in my opinion.

Ask the Reader: Have you used both shopping platforms? If so, do you agree or disagree with my assessment?

By Kyle James

Stocking your pantry with foods that could survive an apocalypse—or at least outlast your gym membership—is a genius way to cut waste, save cash, and prep for the unexpected. These 26 superstar items are basically the vampires of the food world, refusing to age thanks to their magical chemistry, lack of moisture, and pure stubbornness against spoilage. So, let’s dig into why these foods give Father Time the cold shoulder and how you can help them live their best (and longest) shelf lives.

1. Honey

Why It Doesn’t Go Bad: Honey has natural antimicrobial properties, low water content, and high acidity, creating an environment unsuitable for bacteria or mold. Archeologists have even found edible honey in ancient Egyptian tombs.

Also, when buying honey, try this little trick…flip the bottle upside down and see how quickly the bubble rises. If it rises slowly, the honey is much more likely to be pure and of very high quality. If the bubble rises quickly, it typically has a much higher moisture content which will affect it’s quality.

Storage Tip: Keep honey in a sealed container at room temperature. Avoid introducing water or contaminants to prevent fermentation.

PRO TIP: CRYSTALIZED HONEY DILEMMA

If your honey crystallizes, place the jar in warm (not boiling) water to return it to its liquid state. Avoid microwaving, as high heat can degrade its beneficial enzymes.

2. Salt

Why It Doesn’t Go Bad: Salt is a mineral and doesn’t spoil because it has no organic components to decompose. It also inhibits microbial growth, which is why it’s used in food preservation.

Storage Tip: Store in a cool, dry place to prevent clumping caused by humidity. Use food-grade containers for long-term storage.

PRO TIP: ADD RICE TO YOUR SALT

For bulk salt storage, add a few grains of uncooked rice to the container to absorb moisture and prevent clumping in humid environments.

See Also: Stores Known for Marking Down Products in a BIG Way Near Expiration Dates

3. White Rice

Why It Doesn’t Go Bad: White rice has been polished to remove the oily bran layer, which is prone to rancidity. This makes it shelf-stable for decades.

Storage Tip: Use airtight containers or Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers to protect against moisture and pests. Avoid brown rice, which has a shorter shelf life due to its higher oil content.

PRO TIP: THROW YOUR RICE IN THE FREEZER

Freeze your new bags of rice for 48 hours after purchase to kill any potential insect eggs. Then store it in airtight containers with oxygen absorbers for maximum longevity.

4. Vinegar

Why It Doesn’t Go Bad: The high acidity of vinegar acts as a natural preservative, preventing microbial growth. White vinegar, in particular, can last indefinitely.

Storage Tip: Keep the bottle tightly closed and store at room temperature. Colored or flavored vinegars may lose their flavor over time but remain safe to use.

PRO TIP: VINEGAR HAS MANY USES

Use white vinegar as a natural cleaning agent for windows, counters, and drains. Store it in a spray bottle for easy access to a non-toxic cleaner that never expires.

5. Soy Sauce

Why It Doesn’t Go Bad: Soy sauce has a high salt content and undergoes fermentation, which creates a naturally preserved product. Unopened bottles can last for years, and even opened bottles stay safe for months.

Storage Tip: Refrigerate after opening to retain the best flavor and prevent color changes.

PRO TIP: DO YOU BUY SOY FROM COSTCO?

If you bought a large container of soy sauce from Costco or Sam’s, consider transferring it to smaller containers after opening to reduce exposure to air. This helps maintain flavor and freshness longer.

6. Sugar

Why It Doesn’t Go Bad: Sugar has a very low moisture content, making it inhospitable to bacteria and mold. When stored properly, it can last indefinitely.

Storage Tip: Seal sugar in an airtight container to prevent hardening and contamination by pests.

7. Dried Beans

Why They Don’t Go Bad: Dried beans are extremely low in moisture, which prevents bacterial growth. Over time, they may take longer to cook but remain safe to eat.

Storage Tip: Keep beans in airtight containers to prevent pest infestations. Adding bay leaves can help repel insects naturally.

PRO TIP: THE BAKING SODA TRICK

If older beans take longer to cook, add a pinch of baking soda to the water to help soften them faster without affecting taste.

8. Instant Coffee

Why It Doesn’t Go Bad: Freeze-drying removes nearly all moisture, making instant coffee immune to spoilage.

Storage Tip: Store unopened jars or packets in a cool, dry place. Opened packages should be resealed tightly to maintain freshness.

PRO TIP: ABSORB THE MOISTURE

Keep a small Silica Gel desiccant packet (like the ones found in vitamin bottles) inside the coffee container to absorb any moisture and maintain freshness.

See Also: 24 Often Overlooked Ways to Save Money at the Grocery Store

9. Powdered Milk

Why It Doesn’t Go Bad: Powdered milk has a low moisture content, especially when stored in oxygen-free packaging.

Storage Tip: Keep it in a sealed container away from heat and light. Rotate stock every few years for best flavor.

PRO TIP: THE OVERNIGHT TRICK

Use powdered milk to make creamy soups or desserts. Mix with cold water and refrigerate overnight for the best taste and texture.

10. Cornstarch

Why It Doesn’t Go Bad: Cornstarch is purely starch with no oils or proteins to spoil. It can last indefinitely if stored properly.

Storage Tip: Store in a dry, airtight container to prevent clumping from moisture exposure.

PRO TIP: DOUBLE BAG IT

Store cornstarch in a resealable plastic bag before placing it in its container to provide double protection against moisture and clumping.

11. Liquor

Why It Doesn’t Go Bad: Hard liquors like vodka, whiskey, and rum have high alcohol content, which acts as a preservative. They don’t spoil if unopened.

Storage Tip: Store bottles upright in a cool, dark place to protect the seal and prevent evaporation.

PRO TIP: NOT ALL LIQUOR QUALIFIES

If the alcohol has any cream in it, like Bailey’s Irish Cream, it won’t last forever. Figure 2 years tops if you keep it in the refrigerator.

12. Ghee

Why It Doesn’t Go Bad: Ghee is clarified butter, with all water and milk solids removed. This makes it shelf-stable and resistant to spoilage.

Storage Tip: Store in a tightly sealed jar in a cool, dark cupboard. Refrigeration extends its lifespan even further.

13. Spices

Why They Don’t Go Bad: Whole spices like cloves, cinnamon, and peppercorns have natural oils and antioxidants that slow down degradation.

Storage Tip: Store spices in airtight containers away from light and moisture. Ground spices lose potency faster but remain safe to use.

PRO TIP: UNLOCK THE FLAVOR

Toast whole spices in a dry skillet before grinding them to unlock their full aroma and flavor. This is especially useful for older spices.

14. Apple Cider Vinegar

Why It Doesn’t Go Bad: Like white vinegar, apple cider vinegar has high acidity, preventing microbial growth. The natural “mother” culture adds probiotics, which also help preserve it.

Storage Tip: Keep in a sealed bottle. Cloudiness or sediment is normal and doesn’t indicate spoilage.

15. Baking Soda

Why It Doesn’t Go Bad: Baking soda is a mineral compound that doesn’t degrade over time. However, its leavening properties for baking can weaken.

Storage Tip: Test its effectiveness by mixing a teaspoon with vinegar. If it bubbles vigorously, it’s still potent for baking.

16. Dry Pasta

Why It Doesn’t Go Bad: Dry pasta is made from durum wheat and water, with very low moisture content. This makes it resistant to spoilage.

Storage Tip: Keep in its original packaging or transfer to an airtight container to protect from pests.

17. Maple Syrup

Why It Doesn’t Go Bad: Pure maple syrup has a high sugar concentration, inhibiting microbial growth.

Storage Tip: Unopened bottles can be stored at room temperature. After opening, refrigerate or freeze for extended shelf life.

PRO TIP: DID YOU KNOW YOU CAN FREEZE SYRUP?

To extend the shelf life of opened maple syrup, freeze it in small portions. It won’t freeze solid due to its high sugar content, but it will stay fresh and ready for use. You can even use silicone ice cube trays for easy portioning.

18. Freeze-Dried Foods

Why They Don’t Go Bad: Freeze-drying removes nearly all water, making these foods shelf-stable for decades. Yes, literal decades.

Storage Tip: Keep freeze-dried foods in vacuum-sealed Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers.

See Also: Ultimate List of All The Store Brands Made By Name Brands

19. Canned Goods

Why They Don’t Go Bad: The canning process sterilizes food and seals it in an airtight environment. If unopened and undamaged, canned goods can last years past the printed date.

Storage Tip: Avoid storing cans in hot or damp locations to prevent rust and spoilage.

PRO TIP: ROTATE YOUR STOCK

Label your cans with the purchase date using a marker. This helps you keep track of the oldest items, ensuring proper rotation and usage.

20. Bouillon Cubes

Why They Don’t Go Bad: High salt content acts as a natural preservative, keeping bouillon cubes safe to use for years.

Storage Tip: Keep cubes in their original foil wrappers and store them in a sealed container to maintain flavor and prevent moisture.

PRO TIP: MAKE A POWDER

Crush bouillon cubes into a fine powder to create a quick seasoning for soups, stews, or even as a rub for meats. This also makes it easier to measure small amounts.

21. Tea Leaves

Why They Don’t Go Bad: Dried tea leaves have low moisture, preventing microbial growth. Black tea, in particular, ages well.

Storage Tip: Store in a cool, dry place in a tightly sealed container to protect from light and air.

22. Ramen Noodles

Why They Don’t Go Bad: The noodles are dehydrated, which makes them resistant to spoilage. Flavor packets may expire sooner due to oils.

Storage Tip: If the noodles are still dry and odorless, they’re safe to eat, even if the seasoning packet is discarded.

PRO TIP: TAKE RAMEN TO THE NEXT LEVEL

Transform ramen into a gourmet dish by discarding the flavor packet and using fresh ingredients like vegetables, eggs, or shredded chicken. Enhance the flavor with soy sauce, sesame oil, or chili paste for a healthier and more delicious meal.

23. Pure Vanilla Extract

Why It Doesn’t Go Bad: Real vanilla extract contains high levels of alcohol, which preserves it indefinitely.

Storage Tip: Keep it in a dark, cool cupboard to maintain its flavor. Avoid imitation vanilla, which can degrade over time.

24. Coconut Oil

Why It Doesn’t Go Bad: Coconut oil contains saturated fats that resist rancidity, even at room temperature.

Storage Tip: Keep in a cool, dark place. Solidified oil in cooler temperatures is normal and doesn’t affect quality.

PRO TIP: SUPER VERSATILE STUFF

Use coconut oil for more than just cooking—apply it as a natural moisturizer, hair conditioner, or makeup remover. Store in a cool, dark place to prevent it from turning rancid.

25. Gelatin Powder

Why It Doesn’t Go Bad: Gelatin is derived from collagen and has no moisture content, making it highly stable.

Storage Tip: Store in a dry, airtight container to prevent clumping.

26. Distilled Water

Why It Doesn’t Go Bad: Distilled water is purified and free from contaminants, giving it an indefinite shelf life when stored in a clean, sealed container.

Storage Tip: Use distilled water for humidifiers, car batteries, or even emergency drinking water. Keep it in a cool, dark place to avoid contamination.

Ask the Reader: What items did I miss? Let me know in the comments, thanks.

By Kyle James