14 Things You Should Never Buy at HomeGoods (#5 Is Just a Bad Idea)

HomeGoods has been focusing on its in-store experience after discontinuing online shopping a couple of years ago. If you love going in stores to buy your home furnishings and accessories, the big retailer is probably near the top of your list.

It's true that the store can be a great place to save on everyday essentials for your home. But it might be better to leave some items on the shelf when you wander the retailer's aisles.

Consider leaving these items off your HomeGoods shopping list, as you're likely better off purchasing them elsewhere.

HomeGoods has a wide selection of kitchen supplies, although it can be hard to find what you need or get the best quality.

Avoid kitchen utensils like knives, especially if they don't have a recognized brand name. You don't want to have kitchen supplies fail while you're preparing dinner.

Instead, consider buying these online from Amazon or Walmart, where you'll be able to read reviews and make sure you're buying a durable, quality item.

Art is a great way to show off your personality or elevate your space with the perfect piece to tie the room together.

So don't compromise and just grab something because it's cheap and looks nice. Instead, consider taking some time to shop around and find some unique pieces that reflect you and your style.

Set the right ambiance with some candles, or make your place smell refreshing with something from HomeGoods.

But be careful because not all candles are the same and you might find a spruce-scented candle that makes your home smell like the forest or a dud that doesn't have much scent or won't burn well.

A good set of sheets can be a wonderful way to get to sleep after a long day at work or play.

So you may want to skip the sheets at HomeGoods, which could use materials that aren't the most comfortable or most breathable when you're trying to get some rest.

You can get some good furniture finds such as a chair or a table, but don't expect to get a matching dining room set.

Mixing and matching is a fun way to find treasures at HomeGoods so stick with those one-off unique finds rather than hoping you can get a whole new dining room set.

Throw pillows can be hit-or-miss when you're shopping at HomeGoods, so you'll want to be a little more discerning when it comes to what you grab to accent a sofa or chair.

It's a good idea to grab a throw pillow that you think will work for your space but don't be afraid to throw back any that may be low quality.

Like furniture sets, it can be hard to find a set of pots and pans that match at HomeGoods, so you may be better off going somewhere else if you want a set.

Stores can also be hit and miss when it comes to the quality and brand names of pots and pans on the shelf. If you don't recognize the brand, head to another store and buy something you know you can trust.

Small kitchen appliances can be affordable at HomeGoods, but they also come with other issues, like limited selection or no longer being covered by a manufacturer's warranty.

Instead, pay a little more to get a small kitchen appliance at another store with more options or more choices for warranty coverage.

Artificial flowers are an easy option if you're trying to bring some color or nature into a space.

But you may not be able to find a good selection at HomeGoods if you really want to step up a space that needs some color.

You might think HomeGoods is a great place to pick up a new sofa, but you're going to find a sofa that may be a floor model from somewhere else with plenty of other people sitting and jumping on it before it gets to you.

HomeGoods also may not have the same protections you could get with a warranty from a furniture store so you'll have to double-check the quality before you load it up and hope you won't find something wrong.

Seasonal decor can be great for holidays like Halloween and Christmas or just a good way to add some character to an autumn table or spring barbecue.

But wait until right after the season is over and HomeGoods is clearing its shelves of old decor for new options. You can buy the same pieces for a fraction of the cost and they'll look just as great when the season comes along next year.

You may want to spruce up your workspace now that you're working from home more, or perhaps you just need to get more organized.

But skip the office decor at HomeGoods, which might not work well in conveying a sophisticated workspace (and can be more kitsch than chic) if that's the vibe you're going for.

Do you want a set of drawers for your kids that will last them until they move out? Or perhaps you need a sturdy professional desk for your home office?

Then skip HomeGoods, which may not have the quality and selection you need for an investment piece that you'll want to hold on to for years to come.

Matching sets of things like cookware, dining sets, and dishes aren't easy to find at HomeGoods.

You can find some accent pieces or decorative pieces for the center of a table but go somewhere else if you're looking for a matching set of dinnerware for everyday use or a special occasion.

Check out HomeGoods if you're trying to save money, but be aware that not every piece is worth adding to your cart.

It's a good idea to stick with a budget so you keep more money in your wallet. You should also consider making a list of exactly what you need before you go in and sticking with it so you don't overspend.