If you’re a frequent Costco shopper, you’re probably familiar with the Kirkland brand or have at least seen its products featured on the shelves. Kirkland is a private-label brand, exclusively sold at Costco warehouse stores. “It’s named after the company's headquarters in Kirkland, Washington, and its brand products encompass a wide range of categories, including groceries, household items, personal care products, and more,” explains registered dietitian Trista Best, MPH, RD, LD.
One of the best attributes of the Kirkland brand is its commitment to quality. “The brand often partners with reputable manufacturers to produce its products, in order to ensure they’re meeting rigorous standards,” Best says. “While the exact manufacturers behind Kirkland products are not always disclosed, they tend to source from established brands, which helps provide confidence in its quality,” Best notes. And, its popularity is apparent, based on sales and customer loyalty.
Always stock up on Kirkland products known for being high-quality and low-priced (it’s easy to find Kirkland items for under $10 monthly). “This includes Kirkland Signature Toilet Paper, for softness and durability, Kirkland Signature Batteries, for long-lasting performance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness in comparison to other battery brands, Kirkland Signature Almonds, for freshness, quality, and value, and Kirkland Signature Baby Wipes, for the gentle formula, effectiveness, and affordability,” Best says.
Kirkland products are often priced competitively, providing good value for the quality they offer. In many cases, they’re priced lower than comparable branded products, Best notes. Despite its great reputation, Kirkland does offer a few items that may not be as favorable as the rest. In such cases, you might want to think twice before purchasing. Or you might want to at least compare products in other stores, first.
Remember, Costco has a generous return policy, so if you're dissatisfied with any Kirkland product (or any of Costco’s new summer offerings), you can easily return it for a refund or exchange. “And, while some products may have drawbacks for certain individuals, others may find them perfectly acceptable based on needs,” Best says. However, generally, these are the worst Kirkland brand items to add to your cart.
The Kirkland Products to Skip
Kirkland Signature Laundry Detergent
If you’ve got a messy household, Kirkland laundry detergent might not be the best choice. “Some customers have reported that this detergent may not be as effective at removing tough stains compared to other leading brands,” Best says. Of course, it’s easy to do a wash and test it. “If you find it lacking in stain removal, consider pre-treating stains or using a stain remover product alongside the Kirkland detergent,” Best suggests. Or, simply go with a non-Kirkland brand detergent when it comes to your laundry needs.
Kirkland Signature Bacon
Although there are mixed reviews about Kirkland’s bacon, to be fair: it isn’t high-quality, overall. “While Kirkland bacon is reasonably priced, some consumers find it to be overly fatty or lacking in flavor, when compared to premium bacon brands,” Best says. “If you prefer leaner or more flavorful bacon, you might want to test out a few other brand varieties that are available at your local grocery store,” Best suggests. Ultimately, go with your favorite bacon preference.
Kirkland Signature Protein Bars
These protein bars have also received mixed reviews regarding taste and texture. “Some individuals find them too dense or artificially sweet, for example,” Best says. Plus, you’re limited to a narrow selection. Plus, it’s often fun to try different kinds of protein bars and flavors. There’s no reason to restrict yourself from that pleasure by solely sticking to the Kirkland brand for all your protein bar purchasing needs. “Consider trying other brands that offer a wide variety of flavors and textures to better suit your preferences and avoid boredom,” Best says.
Kirkland Signature Shampoo and Conditioner
While this isn’t the case for every shopper, Best notes that some Costco customers have reported that the Kirkland shampoo and conditioner might leave hair feeling rather dry and rough. “If this happens, you’re then also more susceptible to scalp irritation,” Best explains. “If you experience issues, it's a good idea to consider switching hair care brands, and washing with a brand that’s better suited for your specific hair type and its needs,” Best continues. And, if your hair is prone to dryness and sensitivity concerns, stay safe and not sorry—skip the trial and go straight to an alternative brand, right off the bat, instead.
Kirkland Signature Plastic Wrap
There’s nothing wrong with the plastic wrap, exactly, but it might be inferior in terms of quality and effectiveness, in comparison to other brands at your local grocery store. “Some customers have found the Kirkland plastic wrap to be less clingy and durable than other brands, so if you require a stronger and more reliable plastic wrap, you may want to try a different and reputable brand option available on the market,” Best says.
Of course, trying the plastic wrap is less concerning than testing out shampoo and conditioner—if you’re up to it, buy it and see what you think. Each household is different, which means so are the experiences. Just don’t be shocked if you end up giving it the same review.
Kirkland Brand Cereal
Store brands, such as Kirkland, offer a limited selection for customers to choose from. “Some consumers have reported inconsistencies in the quality of Kirkland brand cereals, such as issues with taste, texture, or freshness,” Best says. Of course, some people might have a different experience and enjoy the Kirkland brand cereals, so it’s worth giving them a try if you’re curious. Just don’t have high expectations, since they have received some negative reviews.
Kirkland High-Fat Salad Dressing
Kirkland dressings are among the worst items to buy at Costco. “Store brands often aim to offer more affordable options, which can mean compromising on the quality of ingredients, such as by using cheaper oils, lower-grade vinegars, and lower-quality herbs and spices, which results in a less flavorful and nutritious dressing,” Best explains. What’s more, in order to extend shelf-life, there may also be a larger amount of additives, preservatives, or artificial ingredients, which aren’t very good for you. Added ingredients not only make your salad less healthy but also can negatively impact taste and texture.
