Big Lots is one of the largest closeout retailers. The store features a wide range of items from top brands. You can find anything from food to bedding and even tools and toys at this popular store. While this store has a bit of everything, it is important to know what you are shopping for in order to find the best deals.
Shopping At Big Lots
As a frequent Big Lots shopper, I frequently find great deals. I find that the store not only offers items at a discount, but often has unique items that I couldn't find anywhere else.
Store Set-Up
Most Big Lots are set up the same way. Registers are in the front of the store for checking out and furniture is in the back. You will find aisles of food such as cereal, jams, international items, canned goods, spices, coffee, tea and juice.
Essentials and More
A Yelp reviewer commented that she loves to shop at Big Lots for essentials like detergent, toilet paper, paper products and some gardening supplies.
You will also find aisles that contain:
- Greeting cards
- Holiday and party decorations
- Scrapbooking supplies
- Office essentials
- Candles
- Kitchen accessories
- Bathroom rugs and shower curtains
These items are much like those found at retail stores but come with a lower price tag. According to the Big Lots website, many items are at least 20 to 30 percent below retail. Some are closer to 60 percent below retail price.
Another Yelp reviewer added that she has seen Farberware items at Big Lots that were at Bed Bath & Beyond for twice the price. She also added that you can save a ton of cash by bargain shopping at Big Lots for utensils, counter accessories, flatware and cleaning supplies.
Seasonal Items
I love to shop at Big Lots for seasonal items. You can find an impressive variety of summer decorations perfect for around the pool and in your garden. During the Christmas season, the store stocks tree decorations, lights and wrapping supplies.
Big Lots has specific aisles for seasonal items so they will stand out from the standard merchandise. No matter what season, you are sure to find plenty of holiday accents to add to your home decor.
Toys and Games
In addition, you can find a large selection of toys and games from brands such as Fisher Price, Disney and LeapFrog. While you may not always find the latest versions of toys, you will be able to browse through a large selection. In my experience, there are usually toys available from past seasons or ones that are closeouts from leading toy brands.
Electronics and Computer Products
Big Lots also carries electronic and computer products such as:
- Laptop cases for around $5 to $10
- Android tablets priced around $60
- Small DVD players for around $40
- Digital camera for under $40
While you may not find brand names such as Apple or HP, you will often find Panasonic, Polaroid and Emerson. I have found cool phone cases, electrical accessories and a selection of video games and DVDs at Big Lots.
Finding The Deals
When shopping at Big Lots, look for items placed on back aisles or side racks. I discovered that these are often marked down dramatically and yield the most savings.
If you are looking for holiday items, you will find the best bargains and deals right after the holiday has passed. The store will mark down items up to 70 percent off. Buy them at this time and save for the following year. While you might not find the largest selection, you are still sure to find plenty of items that can be used for the next season.
The same holds true for seasonal items such as beach chairs, flip flops, sand toys, pool accessories and solar lights. If you purchase these late in the season, they will be marked down and at the lowest prices. While in the beginning of the season the items are discounted, they are not marked down on clearance until later in the summer season.
Big Lots Furniture
Many stores carry a selection of furniture and mattresses. I find the furniture to be decent quality and from brands such as Simmons and Serta. You can expect to find items at least 30 percent below retail price.
The store carries items such as:
- Kitchen tables
- Chairs
- Beds
- Desks
- Sofas
- Recliners
- Bookcases
You will want to check the store often for new shipments and for the latest selection of furniture. Keep in mind that not all stores carry the same furniture. I sometimes check several stores in my area to see what is in stock since selections and inventory vary.
Delivery Options
Another point to keep in mind is that not all Big Lots have furniture delivery. You will want to check with your specific store to see if they offer delivery services. Some stores have delivery options available for an additional fee while others require you to pick up and deliver yourself.
Shop Carefully
Since Big Lots features closeouts, you will want to shop carefully to make sure you are really getting the best deals. I think that some items are comparable to what you may find in a dollar store while others are higher quality and simply past seasons or a part of a closeout deal.
If purchasing food, make sure to check expiration dates. For baby items, always check to make sure items are not part of a recall.
Customer Service
Many customers rave about Big Lots' customer service. Many stores will give rain checks for items advertised but not in stock. A reviewer on My3Cents mentioned that Big Lots in North Carolina had great customer service. She noted that the sales clerk was able to check prices to see if certain items were on sale.
Since Big Lots has a weekly ad, it is possible to find out what is going to be marked down before you go into the store. If you find an item in the ad that isn't marked down in the store, show it to the cashier so that the price can be adjusted for you. My local Big Lots will call other local stores to check if an item is in stock. If you live close to several stores, this is a convenient option to consider.
Store Locations
Big Lots has stores across the United States. To find a store near you, visit the store locator on the website and enter your zip code for the closest store locations.
Great Deals and Selection
Big Lots is a great store to find a large selection of items at low prices. No matter what season or occasion, Big Lots may have what you're looking for. Sign up for Buzz Rewards to know in advance of sales and the latest ad.
