Lowe’s is a haven for home improvement enthusiasts, offering everything from paint to patio furniture. However, not every item on the shelves is a wise purchase. According to experts, there are certain products you should consider buying elsewhere to ensure quality and value. Here are 13 items you should steer clear of at Lowe’s.
1. **Cleaning Supplies:**
Are you looking for cleaning supplies? Well, you might want to skip Lowe’s for that. Expert Julie Ramhold points out that the selection at Lowe’s is limited and often overpriced. Imagine paying more for disinfectant wipes than you would at your local grocery store. CFO Alex Williams explains, “Lowe’s is known for its extra charges on cleaning products.” So, you’re likely to pay about 10 percent more than the market rate. Why not get more bang for your buck at a grocery store instead?
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2. **Home Decor:**
When it comes to home decor, Lowe’s might not be your best bet. As consumer analyst Julie Ramhold notes, Lowe’s isn’t really known for its stylish decor options. With limited styles and steeper prices, you could end up spending more for less. In fact, stores like T.J. Maxx or HomeGoods offer better deals and a wider variety. So, if you’re looking to jazz up your space, consider exploring other retailers for a more chic and cost-effective selection.
If you’re considering decorative table runners, you might find options like those from Znb’s Spring Home on Amazon for just $21.95, boasting a solid rating of 4.4 from 603 customers.
3. **Wall Art:**
Real estate investor Marina Vaamonde cautions against purchasing wall art from Lowe’s. According to her, the styles are limited, and the prices don’t justify the selection. If you’re on a quest to adorn your walls, HomeGoods might be a better choice. There, you’ll find a broader range of styles and prices that fit your budget. So, before settling for less, explore your options and find pieces that truly speak to you.
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4. **Rugs:**
Thinking about buying a rug at Lowe’s? Think again. Jeremy Yamaguchi, CEO of Lawn Love, advises against it. The rugs at Lowe’s often use cheaper synthetic materials, which aren’t built to last. If you’re looking for something that can handle foot traffic and stand the test of time, consider checking out At Home, Hobby Lobby, Wayfair, or even Target. These places offer higher-quality options that won’t wear out quickly.
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5. **Small Appliances:**
While smaller appliances may seem appealing, lifestyle expert Sophia Phillips advises against buying them at Lowe’s due to their limited selection and higher prices; for instance, the De’Longhi Multi-Cooker is priced at $209 in-store but just $155 at Walmart, making retailers like Kohl’s and Amazon a smarter choice.
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6. **Batteries:**
Need batteries? It’s best not to stock up at Lowe’s. Experts like Julie Ramhold and Sophia Phillips agree that the prices at Lowe’s aren’t the best. Big box stores like Target or even your local grocery store might offer more reasonable prices. Or, head over to Costco, where buying in bulk can save you a lot more. Why pay more when you can get a better deal elsewhere?
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7. **Turf:**
If you’re considering installing turf, you might want to avoid buying it from Lowe’s. Michael Levy from Dirty Turf advises opting for a specialized local company instead. While big box stores carry basic synthetic grass, they don’t offer the variety you might need. Investing in a reputable company ensures you get a product that fits your specific needs and stands the test of time.
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8. **Major Appliances: **
Shopping for major appliances at Lowe’s might seem convenient, but experts advise against it. While the store does offer a wide array of options, the prices are often less competitive compared to specialized appliance retailers. These specialized stores not only provide better deals but often offer extended warranties and personalized service that make a significant difference. Imagine buying a refrigerator at Lowe’s only to find it at a lower price with extra warranty coverage at a dedicated appliance store. It’s worth taking the time to shop around to find the best value for your money.
Moreover, appliance-specific retailers typically have staff with in-depth knowledge of the products they sell. This expertise can be invaluable when you’re trying to decide between models or brands, ensuring that you choose an appliance that truly fits your needs. So, before making a big purchase at Lowe’s, explore other options that might offer better deals and customer service.
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9. **Paint: **
Lowe’s might appear to be the go-to for paint with its broad assortment, but experts argue that the quality often falls short compared to what you can find at specialty paint stores, which offer superior options that ensure better durability and coverage over time.
In addition to the product quality, specialty stores often come with expert advice that can be crucial in selecting the right paint for your project. Whether you’re tackling a small DIY project or repainting an entire home, the right guidance can help you choose colors and finishes that will stand up to wear and tear. Before your next paint purchase, consider visiting a specialized store to ensure you’re getting the best quality for your money.
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10. **Flooring: **
Although Lowe’s has a variety of flooring, experts recommend exploring specialized retailers as they typically provide superior quality and a wider selection of materials, along with comprehensive installation services that Lowe’s may lack.
Investing in flooring from a specialized store can pay off in the long run, especially if you desire a unique appearance or need expert advice on installation; don’t restrict your search to big-box retailers for vital home components like flooring.
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11. **Kitchen Cabinets: **
Kitchen cabinets at Lowe’s might appear as budget-friendly options. However, they often don’t offer the same level of quality and customization available from specialist kitchen retailers. If you’re working on a kitchen remodel, you might find that specialist stores provide a wider range of design options and higher-grade materials that can truly enhance your kitchen’s functionality and aesthetics.
Investing in quality cabinets can increase your home’s value and ensure that the heart of your home is both beautiful and efficient. Shopping at a specialized retailer allows you the flexibility to customize your cabinets to perfectly fit your space and style preferences.
When looking for cabinet organizers, you might come across the LOVMOR Pull Out Cabinet Organizer on Amazon, priced at $130.78, featuring a robust rating of 4.8 from 78 reviews.
12. **Gardening Tools: **
Lowe’s might be the go-to for many when it comes to picking up gardening tools, but experts say you might want to reconsider. The tools from Lowe’s are often not designed to withstand heavy or prolonged use, which can lead to frustration in the long run. For those looking to invest in durable equipment that will stand the test of time, specialist gardening stores are the better choice.
Before you fill your cart with gardening tools from Lowe’s, remember that specialized stores often offer quality-tested tools that ensure you can tackle any gardening project with confidence and ease.
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13. **Siding: **
The siding selection at Lowe’s might not be the best choice for your house, according to experts. They caution that the lower-end brands offered by Lowe’s may not stand the test of time, often leading to warping, cracking, and fading. Instead, explore options at specialized suppliers where you will find brands specifically designed to withstand various weather conditions and add lasting curb appeal to your home.
By choosing premium siding from a specialty store, you not only enhance your home’s exterior appeal but also invest in long-lasting protection and energy efficiency that can ward off pests, safeguarding your investment for years to come.
If you’re in the market for siding installation tools, consider the PacTool Gecko Gauge on Amazon, available for $48.69 and rated 4.6 by over 4,177 customers, ensuring you have quality tools for your home exterior projects.
Choosing where to shop is just as crucial as what you’re purchasing; while Lowe’s provides convenience, exploring specialized retailers can lead to discovering products that truly fulfill your needs and exceed your expectations. Enjoy your shopping experience!
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