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Cruising through Costco and Sam's Club can be a thrilling adventure if you're looking to stock your shelves and save some money. That said, it's important to recognize when buying in bulk doesn't make sense for your family's needs.

In fact, sometimes you aren't saving money by buying in bulk-you're throwing it away. When shopping at warehouse clubs that sell bulk goods at discounted prices, it's important to recognize what's a good deal and when you should keep walking.

Headed to the warehouse? Here are nine items you might want to think twice about buying in bulk.

Related: Sam's Club Vs. Costco: What's The Difference?

　　 Spices

While it may be tempting to stock up on ground spices when you see them on the shelf for a steal, unless you plan to use them up–it’s best to hold off. In fact, ground spices should be replaced every few years (two to three to be exact), because they expire, according to the USDA.

"Ground spices lose their aroma and flavor more quickly, so it's wise to buy them in small quantities," the government agency states.

　　 Condiments

Stocking up on everything you need for a backyard BBQ–or to keep your refrigerator stocked–seems like a good idea. That is, until you realize that once opened, condiments have a pretty short shelf life. According to the USDA, once opened, ketchup should be tossed after six months, mustard after 12 months, olives after two weeks, and pickles after one to three months.

　　 Dairy

Nothing is worse than pouring spoiled milk into cereal or expired creamer into coffee. If you’ve never experienced it, trust us–you’re lucky. Once dairy products–think milk, creamer, and yogurt–are opened, they start to sour within a few days. Unless you’re feeding a crowd all at once, it’s best to buy dairy products in smaller quantities. 

　　 Produce

Fresh produce–think fruit and vegetables–can be tempting when packaged together for a good price, but unless you’re baking fruit pies, buying in bulk can lead to an abundance of rotting produce at home simply because it can’t be eaten fast enough. 

　　 Eggs 

Bulk eggs often come with the best price tag, but unless you’re diligent about eating them daily–or using them in recipes–it’s best to think again. Raw whole eggs in their shell, even when refrigerated properly, go bad four to five weeks beyond the pack date–which is about three weeks after purchase.

　　 Laundry Detergent

While unopened liquid laundry detergent has a shelf life of nine months, once it’s opened–it’s only effective for about six months according to detergent brand, Gain. While they don’t necessarily go bad, like spoiled milk, there are some downsides to consider.

"Expired laundry detergents simply become less effective and fragrant over time, reducing their cleaning power," the brand states. "If you use expired laundry detergent, you may notice that your clothing isn’t getting as clean as it normally does."

　　 Perishable Items You Cannot Freeze

Sure, you can freeze bread, bakery items, and even dairy–but if there’s no room in your freezer, the logic for saving money by buying in bulk is flawed. Sure, it makes sense to stock up if you’re hosting friends and family, or cooking for the neighborhood, but when it comes to regular shopping, buy what you need to prevent food spoilage.

　　 Nuts

Almonds, peanuts, and pistachios…oh my! Perfect for snacking and baking, nuts seem like an obvious choice to buy in bulk and store in the cabinet–but not so fast.

"Because of the high fat content they may become rancid if stored too long at room temperature," the USDA states. "Solutions to this are to either buy small quantities to use quickly or store them in the freezer for long term use."

　　 Sunscreen

It’s true–sunscreen is only effective for three years. So if you’re diligent in applying and using up a bottle (or three) every year–stock up. Otherwise, buy a single bottle and avoid bulk purchasing.

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