7 things you shouldn't buy at T.J.Maxx, Marshalls, and HomeGoods

I love shopping for deals at T.J. Maxx, Marshalls, and HomeGoods—I’d go as far to call myself a Maxxinista. The feeling you get when you find huge savings at these department stores is hard to beat.

You need to be smart when shopping at T.J. Maxx, Marshalls, and HomeGoods, though. Some discounted items aren't really deals. As a shopping expert, I know how essential it is to not just buy something just because it’s at a low price.

Shopping tips for T.J. Maxx, Marshalls, and HomeGoods

There are some things you should always do when shopping at these stores. In fact, you could apply these tips to any store.

• Always inspect products for signs of damage.

• Make sure products haven’t been used.

• Research the brands you're buying, so you don’t end up wasting money.

Products to avoid at T.J. Maxx, Marshalls, and HomeGoods

There are some things you should be especially cautious about at T.J.Maxx, Marshalls, and HomeGoods. Here are the items to steer clear of.

1. Makeup

Makeup is seriously hit or miss at Marshalls and T.J. Maxx for a couple reasons. Since the products are the overstock inventory from distributors, you’re likely to be shopping unpopular shades or products, meaning you’re less likely to find something you want.

The biggest issue with the in-store makeup and beauty selection, though, is that the products on the shelves may have already been turned into a sample by other customers. (Gross!). Buying makeup online removes that risk, but you still might not end up with a shade you want because there’s no way sample it.

Instead, do your research, we have great guides on the best liquid lipstick, like our overall favorite, Wet N Wild.

2. Perfume and cologne

There are a lot of great places to buy perfume online. We love Versace Crystal Noire from Sephora.

All the perfume and cologne sold at T.J.Maxx and Marshalls should be sealed, and there are generally no sample bottles available. With no way to actually sniff the scents available, you could accidentally buy something that smells horrendous.

That’s not to say you shouldn’t keep your eye out for your favorite scents or brands, but just be careful about picking a new perfume or cologne. If you want to find a different scent, we love Sephora's vast selection and the fact you can spritz on samples to your heart’s content.

3. Yoga mats

One of my coworkers says you should never buy yoga mats at T.J.Maxx or HomeGoods. Although they may be discounted, he said the ones he’s purchased always wind up being too thin and leave you slipping around. That's not to say that all yoga mats at these stores are terrible, but you should do some research on brands before buying one.

For a mat that'll last, Lululemon makes our favorite yoga mat, the The Mat 5mm. It’s a bit more expensive than mats you’ll find at T.J.Maxx, but it’s worth the investment.

If you'd rather not splurge, but still want a reliable yoga mat, this one from Gaiam is the best affordable yoga mat we’ve ever tested. It’s great for beginners and will keep you from slipping and sliding when getting into your flow.

4. Bedding

Unfortunately, some of the linens stocked at HomeGoods include synthetic fibers, which may be inexpensive but aren’t as comfortable, which is why you should read labels carefully instead of just buying for a pretty pattern.

It’s better to opt for sheets and bedding with a high thread count and high-grade cotton that will breathe and survive multiple washings. Brooklinen makes the best sheets we've ever tested, and we think they are worth it for the price.

5. Furniture

While HomeGoods may have some hidden gems and big brand names in their furniture department, we recommend being cautious when shopping for investment pieces like dressers or a set of dining chairs. These items may seem like a good deal, but they could be from failed product inspection. Be careful or you may end up with a sticky drawer or wobbly, uneven legs.

If you're really worried about something being wobbly or having to return it, Wayfair is one of the best places to buy furniture online. They have lots of attractive options like the Lorraine TV Stand.

6. Hair products

As with makeup and beauty products, when shopping in person you always risk hair care products being opened and tampered with by other customers. Plus, some products can cost just as much—or even more—than they do online, so you might be spending more and going home with a “used” product.

We recommend sticking to your tried and true or testing out new products with samples from Sephora which has lots of great options, like the Ouai Hair Oil, so you can save money without wasting product.

7. Cheap kitchen supplies

I would be especially cautious when choosing cheaper kitchen supplies like measuring spoons, knives, and mixing bowls from unknown brands at HomeGoods. I’m not saying all of these kinds of products at these stores are bad, just don’t buy the cheapest ones. A good price on not-so-good measuring spoons does not make it a good deal.

Rather, invest in quality measuring cups and spoons that will last and look better than a set of cheap plastic ones. Our favorite measuring spoons are from Cuisipro, which are not only relatively inexpensive but are high quality.