The Best and Worst Things to Buy at Target (According to Employees)
Savvy shoppers know that not every purchase at Target is a good deal. Some items offer excellent value, while others are better bought elsewhere. Thanks to the help of a dozen Target employees, I take a deep dive into the best and worst things to buy at Target.
First…let’s talk about the 10 BEST things to buy at Target…
1. Home Decor
Target’s home decor 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 decor 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 decor 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
I started Rather-Be-Shopping.com in 2000 and have become a consumer expert and advocate writing about out-of-the-box ways to save at stores like Amazon, Walmart, Target and Costco to name a few. I’ve been featured on FOX News, Good Morning America, and the NY Times talking about my savings tips. (Learn more)