HomeGoods has deals galore across the store. But savvy shoppers know the best place to snag the top bargains on everything from interior accents to electronics.
We've got an insider tip for budget-conscious consumers who are looking for ways to save: Check out the checkout aisle. This often-overlooked space is more than just a place to wait. HomeGoods stocks this section with well-priced designer decor, fine fragrances, housewares, gourmet goodies, and so much more.
Are you ready to start shopping? Here are 10 checkout aisle items that make it easy to keep more cash in your wallet this October. And bonus, everything on our list is $10 or less.
Editor's note: Prices and availability are subject to change and may vary by location.
Hallmark Pumpkin Plates
Price: $7.99
Celebrate the season without overspending on fancy party-ready paper products. If washing dishes isn't your idea of a fun way to spend a holiday, snag this 12-count of 10.4-by12.4-inch oval plates.
You can find this paperware product in the checkout aisle. But that doesn't mean it's an impulse buy. Unlike knick-knacks, gadgets, and gourmet goodies, this last-grab item is an everyday essential. Of course, the artsy autumn design adds an understated elegance that elevates this pick, separating it from plain white plates.
Priced at $7.99, you'll have money left over to shop some more. Pair these disposables with an equally impressive (and equally affordable) pack of brand-name napkins to create a complete tablescape.
GC Fragrance Falling Leaves Diffuser
Price: $7.99
Fall is in the air. But that doesn't necessarily mean your home instantly smells like autumn. How can you add a seasonal scent to the air? It's easy. That is, if you check HomeGoods' checkout aisle.
We found this 150-milliliter "Falling Leaves" fragrance diffuser for less than $8. The warm, inviting blend of cinnamon, apple, vanilla, and citrus is the perfect way to mask odd odors without going overboard on pumpkin-spice everything. And don't worry about paying extra for reeds. This sweet-smelling set comes with extras.
How much can you save on this end-of-the-store item? Compare HomeGoods' price to $29.95 for a Pumpkin Spice Fragrance Diffuser at Williams-Sonoma.
Hallmark Dessert Napkins
Price: $3.99
You've got the plates, and now you need the napkins. While HomeGoods does have an entire party aisle, shoppers can also snap up paper products (like this 40-count of autumn napkins) at checkout.
The three-ply disposables flawlessly combine form with function. This pretty patterned pick has a quiet charm and classically chic aesthetic. But that's not the only reason to snap up this pack. These napkins aren't just decor. Use the strong, sturdy cloths to sop up sticky spills and protect your table from your family and guests' mess.
Score serious savings on this $3.99 brand-name buy. We spotted a 20-count in a different style on Hallmark's website for $4.99.
Pottery Pumpkin Decor
Price: $7.99
Pass on plain pumpkins and nab this farmhouse-chic ceramic style. The anything-but-plain piece of pottery has a natural vibe that complements classic, traditional, and eclectic types of interior decor.
Display the fall find on your mantel, end table, or kitchen counter. Crafty shoppers who are looking for an affordable DIY deal can dress up this autumn accent and turn it into a charming holiday table centerpiece. Simply surround the patterned pumpkin with artificial autumn blooms, a wreath of dried flowers, and red, orange, or yellow ribbon.
Don't worry about breaking your October shopping budget on this tiny treasure. For under $8, this is a must-have bargain buy.
Naturals Brands Decorative Serving Board
Price: $9.99
A sprig of dried lavender adds a rustic charm and shabby-chic style to this basic board. Even though you typically use this type of wooden item to chop veggies or serve cheese, the decorative details make it a display-worthy find.
Not sure what to do with this nature-inspired item? Use the twine loop to hang the quaint piece from your kitchen wall, dining room door, or backsplash. You can also add it to a buffet table centerpiece, prop the platter up on a shelf, or stand this seasonal selection on your mantel. The ways to show off this decorative farmhouse accent are almost endless.
Sand + Fog Simmering Spices Candle
Price: $7.99
We're obsessed with the supersized collection of cost-friendly candles HomeGoods has in stock. Not only did we spot one-, two-, and three-wick jars in the "candle section," but we also found plenty of brand-name bargains in the checkout aisle.
This Simmering Spices scent is warm and inviting, making it the ideal option to light on a chilly fall night. And while we're fans of the fabulous fragrance, the festive fall design adds extra appeal.
Grab this checkout area deal while you can. The beloved candle brand sells the Simmering Spices jar online for $24. That's more than three times HomeGoods' discounted price.
USB Type-C Charging Cord
Price: $4.99
HomeGoods sells more than just decor. Do you need an inexpensive way to charge your smartphone, tablet, or other digital device?
Forget about wasting cash at specialty electronics stores. You can scoop up charging accessories like this premium USB Type-C cord in the home retailer's checkout aisle. Features include gold-plated connectors and a convenient six-foot length. The longer size makes it easy to plug your phone into an outlet while using it.
We compared this $4.99 bargain to similar selections from other chains. Best Buy sells a six-foot Samsung USB Type-C Device Cable for $24.99, and Target sells Apple's version for $29.99.
Pumpkins and Mushrooms Cross Stitch Kit
Price: $5.99
Are you in the market for a new hobby? If the cooler weather makes outdoor activities a no-go, pick up this easy-to-use pack from HomeGoods. The cross-stitch kit includes everything you need to create a crafty fall-themed pumpkin-and-mushroom design (a plastic hoop, thread, stitching fabric, needles, a threader, and instructions).
We understand that adding an unnecessary expense for a hobby that you may or may not enjoy doesn't seem frugal. But this checkout aisle item is an affordable alternative to pricier picks from specialty craft stores. At $5.99, this is a micro-investment that won't break the bank. Michaels sells a similar DIY set for $24.
Green Collective Wool Dryer Balls
Price: $7.99
Dryer balls might not seem like a necessity. But this set is well worth the extra few dollars.
These dandy little gadgets aren't just cute (even though we are fans of the sweet sheep design). The eco-friendly item decreases drying time, prevents wrinkles, and reduces static. And don't stress about these little laundry accessories accidentally rolling away. This four-pack also includes a reusable zipper storage bag.
Save money and snag this checkout-lane bargain when you can. While we can't promise that every HomeGoods store has the same item in stock, at $7.99 this is a can't-miss deal. In comparison, Blue Land sells a set of three Dryer balls for $18, and The Container Store charges $24.99 for six.
Get a protection plan on all your appliances
Did you know if your air conditioner stops working, your homeowner’s insurance won’t cover it? Same with plumbing, electrical issues, appliances, and more.
Whether or not you’re a new homeowner, a home warranty from Choice Home Warranty could pick up the slack where insurance falls short and protect you against surprise expenses. If a covered system in your home breaks, you can call their hotline 24/7 to get it repaired.
For a limited time, you can get your first month free with a Single Payment home warranty plan.
Rachel Zoe Harvest Leaves String Lights
Price: $9.99
You still have a month or two before breaking out the red and green twinkle lights, Santa stash, and other Christmas gear. But you can still deck the halls this October and create seasonal fall displays.
Celeb stylist and Real Housewife of Beverly Hills star Rachel Zoe's line of home goods includes this 10-foot string of harvest leaves shimmer lights. Drape the LEDs around a potted plant, add them to an autumn wreath, or hang the festive find around the edges of a holiday party buffet.
The faux foliage and glimmering bulbs create a whimsical effect that will wow your family and friends.
Bottom line
It's easy to overlook this end-of-the-store area. Even though you might think of the checkout aisle as just a place to wait, it's a treasure trove of budget-friendly buys that deserve more than just a quick glance on your way out the door.
While we spotted deals on fabulous fall finds and autumn accents, these aren't the only bargains you can score. HomeGoods' checkout area is stocked with more than just "home goods." You can also save money on groceries as you wait in line. Look for bargains on decadently delicious gourmet sweets, salty snacks, and bottled beverages.
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