Let’s be real—Target has a lot of great stuff, but not everything there is a good deal. Some items are totally worth it, while others? You’d be better off buying somewhere else. I talked to a bunch of current and former Target employees to get the inside scoop on what’s actually worth your money—and what to skip.
First…let’s talk about the 10 BEST things to buy at Target…
1. Home Décor
Target’s home décor section is a goldmine if you’re trying to upgrade your space without spending a fortune.
In particular, their in-house brands like Threshold, Opalhouse, and Hearth & Hand with Magnolia offer stylish, high-quality pieces at reasonable prices.
“Home décor clearance on those brands is best at the end of each season—think late January, July, and October,” said Tina, a Target employee I chatted with. “And always check the end caps. That’s where we stash most of the markdowns.”
Basically, if you know when and where to look, you can snag some seriously good deals.
PRO TIP: USE TARGET CIRCLE REGULARLY
Target’s free loyalty program, Target Circle, offers personalized deals, coupons, and 1% back on purchases.
Regularly check the app for discounts on items you’re planning to buy.
2. Generic and Store-Brand Products
Target’s private labels, like Good & Gather, Up & Up, and Market Pantry, are known for their quality and affordability.
These brands often match or exceed the quality of national brands but cost significantly less.
“Honestly, just go for the Target brands,” says Emily, a Target employee. “Good & Gather, Up & Up—they’re basically the same as the name brands, but your wallet won’t hate you for it.”
PRO TIP: TARGET BRANDS HAVE A 1-YEAR RETURN POLICY
The Target return policy stipulates that all of their store brands come with an extremely generous 1-year return policy.
3. Seasonal and Holiday Items
Whether it’s Halloween costumes, Christmas decorations, or back-to-school supplies, Target’s seasonal section is well-stocked with unique and affordable items.
“After Christmas, our holiday décor goes on clearance, starting at 50% off and eventually dropping to 70% or even 90% off,” shared a Target employee. “If you want the best selection, shop right after Christmas, but if you’re looking for the biggest savings, wait a few days into January.”
PRO TIP: SHOP CLEARANCE AND END CAPS
Target’s clearance items are often tucked away on end caps (the shelves at the ends of aisles). These sections can be a goldmine for heavily discounted items.
4. Clothing and Accessories
Target’s clothing game has come a long way. With brands like Universal Thread, A New Day, and All in Motion, you can actually find stuff that’s stylish, comfy, and affordable—for everyone in the fam.
“The clearance rack is a total goldmine,” one employee from the apparel section told me. “Look for yellow or red stickers on the tags. If the price ends in a lower number, like $9.98 instead of $9.99, that usually means it’s been marked down more than once—and it’s close to hitting rock bottom.”
In other words, don’t sleep on those racks at the back of the aisle.
5. Beauty and Personal Care Products
The beauty section at Target is a goldmine for affordable and effective products. They carry a mix of drugstore staples and premium brands, including an expanding selection of clean and cruelty-free options.
“Kristin Ess products are a customer favorite,” said Maria who restocks beauty products. “Many people come here specifically for those because they’re salon-quality but really inexpensive.”
6. Baby Essentials
Parents love Target for its reliable and affordable baby products. From diapers and wipes to baby food and gear, Target’s baby section is stocked with trusted brands and competitively priced store-brand alternatives.
“The best way to save is to watch for Target’s gift card promotions,” according to an employee I talked with. “We often run deals like spend $100 on diapers and wipes, get a $20 gift card.”
PRO TIP: CAR SEAT TRADE-IN COUPON
Twice a year, Target hosts car seat trade-in events where you can bring in old or expired car seats and receive a 20% coupon.
The coupon can be used in-store or online for a new car seat, stroller, travel system, or other select baby gear.
Exact dates may vary, so keep an eye on Target’s website, app, or social media for announcements.
7. Kitchenware
Trying to upgrade your kitchen without spending a ton? Target’s actually a great spot for that.
Their Made By Design and Room Essentials lines have solid basics—nothing fancy, but they get the job done and look good.
Sarah, a Target employee I talked to, said, “Kitchen stuff usually goes on clearance after big holidays, like Thanksgiving or Christmas. Just check the end caps—that’s where we stick most of it.”
She also mentioned watching for sales on Threshold and Hearth & Hand—they’re not always advertised, but when they’re marked down, they go fast.
PRO TIP: DON’T FORGET ABOUT A PRICE MATCH
Target’s price match policy allows you to get the best price if you find a lower price at select competitors. Always check online before making a big purchase.
8. Electronics and Tech Accessories
Target’s low-key a great place to score deals on tech if you catch it at the right time. They’re always running promos on stuff like headphones, smart home gear, gaming accessories — all the fun gadgets.
“Always check for clearance deals on end caps near the electronics section,” shares Alex, a Target employee. “We also mark down display models or older versions when new ones come in—just ask a team member about open-box deals.’”
PRO TIP: LOOK FOR APPLE PROMOS
Be sure to keep an eye on Target’s weekly ad for gift card promotions, things like “Buy an Apple product and get a $50 gift card” are fairly common.
9. Books and Board Games
Target’s book section often features bestsellers and even exclusive editions at discounted prices. It’s also a great place to pick up board games and puzzles, especially during sales or with Target Circle offers.
“The exclusive editions are a big draw,” says an associate from the entertainment department. “People often come here for special covers or bonus content.”
PRO TIP: TIMING MATTERS
Target’s markdown schedule varies by department, but many items are marked down on specific days of the week.
For example, electronics are often discounted on Mondays, while clothing sees markdowns on Tuesdays.
10. Groceries
While not the cheapest grocery store, Target’s food section can be a convenient option for pantry staples, snacks, and frozen foods.
“The best way to save is to use Target Circle,” says Amanda, a Target employee. “There are always discounts on pantry stuff, fresh produce, and even meat. Also, check for buy-one-get-one-free deals and gift card promotions, like ‘Spend $50 on groceries, get a $10 gift card’.”
And now the WORST things to buy at Target…
1. Furniture
While Target’s furniture is stylish and affordable, the quality can be hit or miss.
“Our furniture is great for decoration,” says a store associate. “But for long-term or heavy use, customers might want to look at specialized furniture stores.”
2. Fresh Produce and Meat
Target’s grocery section is convenient, but its fresh produce and meat are not always the best value.
“Our selection is smaller,” says a grocery associate. “It’s better for quick pickups than for stocking a full freezer.”
PRO TIP: SIGN-UP FOR THE RED CARD
The Target RedCard gives you 5% off every purchase, free shipping on most online orders, and an extended return period.
If you’re a frequent shopper, the savings can add up quickly.
3. Fitness Equipment
Target is often not the best place for fitness equipment because the selection is limited and the quality often sucks compared to items from dedicated fitness retailers.
Expert advice on choosing the right gear is usually lacking too.
“Target’s fine if you just need a yoga mat or some light dumbbells,” says Emily, a Target employee. “But if you’re trying to build a legit home gym, you’re gonna want to go somewhere that actually knows fitness gear.”
4. High-End Electronics
While Target offers decent deals on smaller tech items, it’s not the best place for high-end electronics like TVs, laptops, or cameras.
“Target’s not really the place for high-end stuff,” says Josh. “We don’t carry a lot of the premium models, and the prices are usually the same as everywhere else—just without the perks. We’re better for mid-range stuff or when we have a good deal.”
PRO TIP: LOOK FOR OPEN BOX DEALS
Target often discounts open-box or slightly damaged items, particularly in electronics and furniture. These items are usually in good condition and can save you a significant amount.
Also, you can often negotiate the price on these items and ask for an additional 15% discount. Most managers want this stuff out of the store and are willing to work with you on the price.
5. Toys
Target’s toy section is fun to browse, but the prices are not always competitive.
“Honestly, Target’s toy prices aren’t that great most of the time,” says Amanda. “You can usually find the same stuff cheaper online or during big sales at other stores. Plus, we don’t always have the best selection, especially around the holidays when things sell out fast.”
6. Tools and Hardware
Target’s selection of tools and hardware is limited and often priced higher than stores like Lowe’s, Home Depot, or Harbor Freight.
“If you’re buying tools at Target, you’re probably just desperate,” jokes Mike. “We’ve got a hammer, a screwdriver, and maybe some duct tape.”
PRO TIP: DON’T FORGET TO STACK COUPONS
Target allows you to stack manufacturer coupons with store coupons and Target Circle offers.
Combine these with your RedCard discount to maximize savings on a single purchase.
7. Jewelry
While Target’s fashion jewelry is affordable and trendy, its fine jewelry offerings are not the best value.
“Our jewelry is great for casual wear,” shares a jewelry department worker. “But for special occasions, customers tend to shop elsewhere.”
8. Specialty Kitchen Appliances
Not gonna lie — Target’s kinda pricey when it comes to specialty kitchen stuff. Espresso machines, stand mixers, all that — you’ll usually find it cheaper at Costco, Sam’s Club, or even just online.
Unless you catch a crazy sale, you’re probably paying more than you need to if you grab it at Target.
“We carry the basics,” says a team member. “But for high-end appliances, people often shop online or at specialized stores.”
PRO TIP: ALWAYS SHOP AFTER CHRISTMAS
Holiday-themed merchandise is ALWAYS heavily discounted at Target in the days following Christmas making it a great time to shop.
Stock up on decorations, candy, and other seasonal items for next year at up to 90% off.
9. Pet Supplies
Target does carry a decent variety of pet products, they’re not always the cheapest option and their selection ain’t great.
“I’ve heard that online stores have better deals,” says a pet supplies associate. “But people like the convenience of grabbing items here.”
10. Party Supplies
Yeah, Target’s party supplies are super convenient — but you’re definitely paying for it. You can get the same balloons, plates, napkins, all that stuff way cheaper at Dollar Tree or Dollar General.
“We hear this from customers occasionally,” says an employee from the seasonal section. “But our selection is good if you’re already here shopping.”
Ask the Reader: Do you agree or disagree with these good and day buys? Let me know in the comments what I missed.
By Kyle James
