14 Things Retirees Should Never Buy at Walmart

Retirement gives you time and freedom. But it can limit your spending power, making you turn to discount big-box retailers like Walmart just to keep your budget in check.

Yes, you can save money at Walmart on everyday essentials and bargain-priced basics. While the superstore has deals galore, some of these items aren't the best options for retirees. From overpriced products to bulky buys that are challenging to store, here are 14 questionable selections you might want to avoid.

Editor's note: Prices and availability are subject to change and may vary by location.

Price: $0.50

The price is right, but quality issues could outweigh the value. These polypropylene cups look more like something that belongs at a child's birthday than on your dinner table.

Instead of wasting cash on this plastic pick, score an eight-count set of Mainstays' Louisa Glass Drinkware. The stylish under-$10 set has a subtle sophistication that will impress your guests.

Price: $24.37

Why spend your savings on an alarm when you already have one in your phone? Even though this clock features white-noise sleep sounds, a timer, and dual alarms, you can download free apps that do the same and save $24.

Price: $19.74

If you have an extra $20 for a 14.25-by-11.25-by-8.5-inch woven basket, this buy is a better deal than what you could find in an upscale retailer. But you could find better uses for your retirement fund.

Walmart also sells fabric storage cubes (from Mainstays) for under $5 and Sterilite plastic totes for $5.98.

Price: $37.97

The 10-piece Duraglas set features extra-thick silicone lids and a leak-proof design. And while this kitchenware item is durable, it's also bulky, overpriced, and too large for empty nesters.

Save money by snagging the brand's smaller eight-piece set for $27.88, or get Mainstays' 14-count Plastic Rainbow Food Storage Set for $5.97.

Price: $138

Vacuum sealers can reduce food waste, saving you money over time. But that doesn't mean you should break the bank on a pricey model. We found an easy-to-use lighter-weight mini handheld model from FoodSaver at Walmart for under $50.

Price: $50

Planning a party? This 30-piece chafing set doesn't justify the high price. One Walmart customer complained, "These were not worth $50. They are cheap and flimsy. I do not recommend."

If you're short on cash, consider dollar store buffet supplies instead of overspending on this bulk buy.

Price: $98.94

A 10-by-10-foot pop-up canopy is perfect for parties and other outdoor gatherings. At just over 34 pounds, carrying this tent could pose a challenge for anyone with mobility issues, back strain, or difficulty lifting heavy items. Before you invest in this almost-$100 option, make sure you can move it easily.

Price: $26.48

Space is often at a premium for retirees. If you've recently downsized, storing this 12-count of XXL mega rolls could pose a problem.

Price: $14.97

Less than $15 for two 12-ounce bottles of insecticide may seem like a bulk buy deal.

Hint: Take a closer look at how this spray works before you spend $14.97 of your retirement savings on this pest product. The liquid only kills on contact. And while it works, you might have to waste your day waiting for bugs to walk or fly by.

Price: $45.97

Retirees on a fixed income may not have wiggle room in their budget for a $45-plus two-slice toaster. If you're looking to save on small kitchen appliances, skip this item and snag the Mainstays version for $12.33.

Price: $148

Between the 107.14-pound bulky box, complicated setup instructions, and a 3.8-star rating, this four-drawer dresser isn't the best use of your money. Take it from Walmart customer Allyah, who writes, "Falls apart so easily I don't recommend using this at all, and bought this not even a year ago and it's already in the trash."

Price: $1.47

It's a classic baking basic that can also keep your home clean, freshen the fridge, and more. That said, you don't need to overpay just to get a brand name. Swap this pricy pick for Walmart's generic version. A one-pound box from Great Value costs $0.92.

Price: $30.47

Salon and specialty store shampoo products aren't budget-friendly beauty buys. For over $30, this 8.5-ounce bottle isn't worth the extra cash. In comparison, you can score 13 ounces of OGX's Repair and Protect Bond Protein Repair Shampoo for $6.97 (also at Walmart).

Price: $6.24

Brand-name batteries are budget breakers. Compare $6.24 for eight Energizer Max AAs to $2.97 for the same quantity from Walmart's Great Value private label line.

Even though Walmart has plenty of bargains that offer serious savings, you need to shop wisely. The wrong choices could break your budget — or your back.

How can you avoid wasting money at Walmart? Along with skipping some of the items on our list, look for "Rollbacks," use the retailer's app or website to find the best prices, and consider investing in a Walmart+ membership.