Buzz
Image credit: Anastasiia Krivenok/Getty ImagesWhen planning your budget for furniture and home decor, it can be tough to decide where to spend and where to save. While investing in a quality sofa, bed, or other major pieces is important, not every item needs to be an expensive purchase. Stores like Target, HomeGoods, Marshalls, TJ Maxx, or At Home offer great deals on home essentials, where luxury or brand names aren't essential. Whether you're a bargain hunter who enjoys the thrill of finding a great deal or simply looking to stretch your budget, these eight items are perfect buys at discount stores instead of premium retailers.
Home Accessories
Updating your home decor is an easy way to give your space a fresh feel. Whether you're adding a stylish vase or a vibrant throw, you can often find great deals on these trendy items. Since trends don’t usually last forever, there’s no need to overspend on them.
Holiday and Seasonal Decorations
From festive ornaments during the holidays to citronella candles around July 4th, discount stores are stocked with amazing seasonal items. If you love decorating for any occasion, be it Valentine’s Day or Halloween, you’ll find plenty of budget-friendly options. Be sure to visit the clearance section after each holiday to stock up for the next year.
Accent Tables
While discount stores aren't typically the best place to find large furniture, side tables are an exception. They don’t usually endure heavy wear, so the quality of materials is less of a concern. Just make sure it’s small enough to fit in your car when you take it home.
Decorative Pillows
Discount retailers often have an abundance of decorative pillows. If you enjoy switching out your pillows based on the season, there’s no need to spend a fortune on high-end options.
Helpful tip: Many discount stores, such as HomeGoods, receive new deliveries every week. If you don't find pillows that match your home décor when you visit, ask the staff when the next shipment arrives, and make sure to stop by for the latest selection.
Bath Towels
Are your bath towels starting to look a bit frayed? Are the fibers unraveling or, even worse, have they lost their absorbency? It might be time for a replacement. You can find quality bath towels at discount stores without breaking the bank. And remember, you don’t need anything fancy—plain white towels are versatile and go with any bathroom style.
Lastly, although they might not be available all year, discount stores are a fantastic place to find beach or pool towels.
Bathroom Items
Is your soap dispenser broken? Is your bathroom trash can still smelling, no matter how much you clean it? Discount stores are the perfect place to grab bathroom items. Add a few fresh towels, and you’ll essentially give your bathroom a makeover without overspending.
While you're in the bathroom décor section, it's always a good idea to pick up a new shower curtain and liner too.
Bed Linen
Bedding can be easy to overspend on, but you don’t have to break the bank. A high thread count doesn’t always come with a high price tag. Another great find at discount stores is a “bed in a bag,” which typically includes a comforter or duvet, sheets, shams, and sometimes even decorative pillows.
Discount stores are especially great for kids' rooms, where you’ll probably replace the bedding every few years anyway.
Kitchen Essentials
Did the handle on your spatula break? Is your whisk looking worse for wear? Discount stores offer the best deals on everyday kitchen items. Plus, they often carry a variety of brands, meaning you can score quality essentials for less than you’d pay elsewhere.
