10 things you should never buy for more than $1 per ounce

Price tags don’t always tell the full story. Some products seem cheap until you look at the price per ounce—and then it hits you. You’re paying triple what you should be for something that’s not even high quality. A little label-checking goes a long way, especially when you’re buying basics that add up fast.

If you’re not already looking at price per ounce, this is your sign. These are the items where anything over $1 an ounce means you’re probably getting ripped off.

Spices

Those tiny jars at the grocery store can be insanely overpriced. Paying $3 for a 0.7 oz container means you’re shelling out over $4 an ounce—and that adds up fast.

Buy your spices in bulk or larger containers when possible. The quality is often the same, and you’re not paying extra for fancy packaging. If you cook often, you’ll blow through the small jars quickly anyway, so it makes more sense to stock up at a better price.

Peanut butter

Some “natural” or specialty brands charge more than $1 per ounce, which can easily turn a basic pantry item into a luxury one. It’s not worth it unless there’s a dietary reason.

Store brands or bulk jars offer the same protein, fat, and taste for way less. Look at the label—most of the time, the ingredients are identical. Don’t let fancy marketing convince you it’s worth triple the price.

Yogurt

Single-serve yogurt cups might seem affordable, but they’re often $1–$1.50 for 5 ounces. That puts you well over the $1/oz line without even getting a full serving of protein.

Larger tubs of yogurt—especially plain or Greek—are a better deal and let you control the sugar content. Portion it out yourself at home and you’ll save a ton without sacrificing quality or convenience.

Body lotion

It’s easy to overpay on lotion, especially when it’s sold in trendy packaging. But unless you’re buying a medical-grade formula, there’s no reason to go over $1 an ounce.

Drugstore brands like CeraVe, Eucerin, or Cetaphil often work better and cost less per ounce. You’re looking for hydration, not hype. A good formula will do the job without draining your budget.

Toothpaste

Some brands charge $5 or more for a tiny tube, but most people don’t need anything that expensive. You’re not getting extra cavity protection—you’re paying for branding.

Stick to fluoride toothpaste with the ADA seal, and you’ll cover the basics. Buying value packs or larger tubes will help you stay well under the $1-per-ounce mark without sacrificing dental health.

Shampoo

Salon brands or influencer-backed bottles can be $20 for 8 ounces or less. Unless you have specific hair needs, that’s not a good use of your money.

Plenty of affordable shampoos clean your scalp and protect your hair without the markup. Look for basic moisturizing or strengthening formulas that cost less than $1 per ounce and actually get the job done.

Dish soap

It’s one of those items that sneaks up on you. Small bottles marketed as “eco” or “concentrated” often cost well over $1 per ounce—and you still go through them quickly.

Buy the bigger bottle and refill a smaller dispenser if you want convenience. The cleaning power is often the same, but you’re not paying a premium for trendy branding or smaller packaging.

Granola

Pre-packaged granola is one of the sneakiest overpriced items in the snack aisle. It’s oats and sugar, yet somehow it’s $6 for a tiny 10-ounce bag.

Making it at home or buying in bulk is way cheaper, and you control the ingredients. If you eat it often, the cost difference adds up quickly. Don’t let the “healthy” label trick you into overpaying for basic ingredients.

Ground coffee

Fancy bags of coffee can easily hit $1.50 or more per ounce, especially if it’s a trendy blend. But high price doesn’t always equal high quality—or better taste.

Check price per ounce and try mid-range options in larger bags. A good cup doesn’t need to be expensive. If you’re brewing daily, this switch alone could save you hundreds per year without changing your routine.

Trail mix

Those pre-packaged trail mixes at the checkout line can be $1.25–$2 per ounce without blinking. You’re better off making your own mix from bulk nuts, seeds, and dried fruit.

You’ll get more for your money and skip the added sugar and cheap fillers. If trail mix is part of your snack rotation, buying smarter here will save way more than you think.

*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.