10 Products to Buy in Bulk

4. Toothpaste

Shelf life: two years 

Toothpaste can be an ideal buy-in-bulk product because we use it daily. But don’t overshop — generally, toothpaste has only a two-year shelf life. After that, some ingredients begin to lose their effectiveness.

5. Shampoo and conditioner

Shelf life: one to three years

Technically, shampoo and conditioner don’t expire, but many manufacturers list a “period after opening” date on the back of the bottle. Look for an open-can symbol with a number and the letter M beneath it — that will tell you the recommended time of use after the bottle has been opened. For example, Garnier shampoo has a shelf life of 12 months, Pantene shampoo is best to use within 36 months and Maui Moisture conditioner is best when used within 18 months, according to the brands.

6. Underwear, undershirts and socks

Shelf life: no expiration

“Things like tank tops, undershirts and basics that you need to wear under something are good bulk purchases,” says Ramhold. The savings can be substantial: For example, a six-pack of boxer briefs typically costs significantly less than if you were to buy six boxer briefs individually. The same pricing advantage applies to other undergarments and socks sold in bulk.

7. Bar soap

Shelf life: two to three years

​You won’t find an expiration date on a bar of soap’s packaging, but most tend to have a shelf life of two to three years. (Natural bar soaps typically have a shorter shelf life because they don’t contain artificial preservatives.) Likewise, body wash and shower gels generally last two to three years after opening.

8. Cleaning supplies

Shelf life: six months to two years

​Cleaning products tend to lose efficacy the longer they sit in storage, but how quickly depends on the product. For instance, bleach generally lasts only six months after the container is opened, while most multisurface cleaners last up to two years. Liquid laundry detergent will remain effective six to nine months after opening, while hand sanitizer can last two to three years.

9. Batteries

Shelf life: 10 to 20 years

Bulk-buying batteries can save you money and come in handy when emergencies strike. After all, nobody wants to be left in the dark during a blackout or a storm because the flashlight batteries are dead. Batteries have a really long shelf life — up to 10 years for most regular batteries and up to 20 years for most lithium batteries when stored in cool, dry conditions. Two exceptions: 9-volt batteries last up to five years, and rechargeable batteries typically last up to one year.

10. HVAC filters

Shelf life: no expiration

When forced-air heating, ventilating and cooling (HVAC) system filters get dirty, it’s bad for your health and your wallet. That’s because dirty filters can negatively affect your indoor air quality and force your HVAC system to work harder, raising your energy bills. Most air filters should be replaced every three to 12 months, depending on the size and thickness of the filter and whether your home has a pet. Buying filters in bulk, especially if your home has more than one heating and air conditioning system, means you’ll never be empty-handed when you need a clean one. Plus, multipacks are often sold at a discount.