These Are the 5 Things I’ll Always Buy at Big Lots to Save Money
I say there’s no fun in scoring a deal unless you have to put some effort into searching for it. I’ve plucked enough treasures from the aisles of Big Lots to know that’s what keeps me coming back—its orange exclamation points and slightly cluttered shelves are a siren call for my bargain-loving self.
Aside from the Big Lots gems (like washi tape and kitschy lawn ornaments) I take so much pleasure in hunting for, there are a few things I stick to buying at Big Lots because, well, they’re cheap there. Ahead, find the five things I’ll always buy at my beloved Big Lots to save money.
Picture frames
Whether I’m buying picture frames for my home or to gift a small photo to someone else, I’ll always check Big Lots before another retailer. The store usually has a decent selection of basic 4’ by ‘6, 5’ by 7’, and 8’ by 10’ frames in black, white, and chrome. They’re not fancy, of course, but I’ve had luck creating a gallery wall on a budget thanks to ol’ BL. This black 8’ by 10’ frame, for example, is only $7.
Dessert platters and plates
When I make a dessert for a party, I like to bring it on a pretty plate that I can leave with the host. Big Lots sells cute plastic, melamine, porcelain plates for as little as 99 cents a pop. The store’s outdoor dinnerware sets are perfect for barbecues, and around the holidays, I’ll pick up some seasonal-themed ones for freshly baked Christmas cookies. I can already envision the lemon bars I’d put on this 4-pack of yellow melamine plates for $6.75.
Plastic storage totes
As a budding organization fiend in high school, I’d always longingly eye the rows of closet organizers, velvet hangers, and storage boxes on my trips to Big Lots. I still go there for those big Rubbermaid-style plastic totes for storing holiday decorations and under-the-bed coats and sweaters. I have two of these clear Sterilite totes under my bed right now, which I bought for $6.50 each. At the Container Store, similar boxes ask closer to $25 apiece.
Plant pots
Outdoor planters and flower pots both big and small are always significantly cheaper at Big Lots than in department stores and specialty shops. While their prices on plain-looking pots are good, it’s worth noting Big Lots has a robust selection of stylish plant stands and patterned planters. This 8-inch raised planter is adorable, and is priced at $10.50.
Bob’s Red Mill products
This one’s a specific brand, but it’s probably my favorite Big Lots hack of all. Bob’s Red Mill products often sell for a few dollars cheaper than at regular grocery store chains. Granted, the quinoa and flour I buy at Big Lots is a tad closer to their expiration dates, but it’s not something I mind much.