Shopping at Aldi is a smart move for budget-conscious buyers, but not everything in the store is worth buying. Some products fall short in quality or value and leave shoppers disappointed. From items that spoil too quickly to those that just aren’t that great a deal, knowing what to skip can save time and money. Keep reading to find out 15 things you might want to avoid putting in your cart at Aldi.
Fresh Produce
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The produce section at Aldi often has items that seem fresh but spoil quickly after purchase. For example, strawberries and lettuce may develop mold or wilt within days. This issue mostly stems from insufficient temperature control during shipping or storage.
Coffee
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Aldi’s coffee typically comes in the form of mass-produced blends that don’t emphasize bean origin or roasting quality. This can lead to a flat, one-dimensional flavor profile. Additionally, most of the options are pre-ground, which are known for losing their aroma quickly, even before the package is finished.
Toilet Paper and Paper Towels
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Like other products at Aldi, paper towels and toilet paper are usually inexpensive. Nevertheless, they're able to match the prices at other large stores, which also accept the coupons that Aldi does not. So, you can probably get a better deal elsewhere.
Dish Detergent
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When it comes to dishwashing, Aldi’s automatic dishwasher liquid often struggles to remove tough grease or leave dishes sparkling clean. Interestingly, Aldi’s dishwasher pods have earned better reviews.
Wine
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Aldi’s wine and beer are often private-label products that prioritize cost over craftsmanship. Some wines have been described as overly acidic or lacking complexity, while certain beers may taste flat. The production methods might not adhere to the same standards as well-known brands.
Pre-Shredded Cheeses
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While Aldi offers a wide variety of cheeses at its deli, and they’re mostly affordable, it’s probably best to avoid buying pre-shredded or cubed cheeses. This is because these cheeses usually cost a little bit more than name-brand cheese, so you're better off buying those directly.
Chicken
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A quick cost-benefit analysis shows that Aldi's chicken is probably not worth buying. While it may be super affordable, by the time you're done cleaning the chicken and trimming the unwanted fat and veins, there's not much left to work with.
Name-Brand Products
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Aldi’s strength lies in its affordable house-brand products. Straying from these to buy name-brand items often means missing out on savings. Since Aldi doesn’t accept coupons, it's probably better for brand-conscious fans to find better deals at other stores, especially during sales.
Soda
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Summit GT, Aldi’s store-brand soda, may attract customers with a low price point but often lacks the bold flavors and carbonation of popular brands. Customers have noted that the diet variety tastes unusual, while the regular cola doesn’t mimic the balance of sweetness and acidity that soda drinkers expect.
Cat Litter
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Heart to Tail Scoopable Cat Litter, Aldi’s in-house brand has several issues, including excessive dust, unpleasant odors, and ineffective clumping. These drawbacks can make maintaining a clean litter box more difficult. If you prioritize ease of use and quality, premium brands are a better investment for your furry friend.
Deodorant
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While Aldi sells name-brand deodorants, their prices are often higher than those found at discount stores or during sales. Without the option of coupons or store-brand alternatives, it’s challenging to find savings in this category compared to competitors.
Toothbrushes
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Aldi’s toothbrushes are priced competitively but often lack the variety seen in other stores, such as options for sensitive gums or specialty designs. Bulk purchasing from online retailers or membership clubs tends to provide more features and a lower per-unit cost.
Yogurt
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Aldi’s in-house yogurt brand receives mixed reviews due to its slightly off-taste and thinner consistency. While it is an affordable option, customers accustomed to name-brand yogurts like Fage or Chobani might find the flavor profile less appealing for standalone consumption or recipes.
Graham Crackers
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The flavor and texture of Aldi’s graham crackers have been noted as inconsistent, with some batches tasting bland or overly dry. This can make them less suitable for baking or desserts. Despite the lower price, they don’t always deliver reliable quality.
Pickle Spears
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Aldi’s pickle spears often have a texture that some customers find too soft for their liking. Their brine lacks the depth and tanginess expected from classic pickle recipes, which can make them less versatile for snacking or as a sandwich topping.
