As one of the biggest retailers in the US, with nearly 1,200 stores and a particularly devoted Midwestern following, Kohl’s has established itself as a go-to destination for everything from apparel to home goods.
Since it’s founding in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, more than 50 years ago, Kohl’s has carved out a niche among traditional department store peers like JCPenney and Macy’s, thanks to its one-stop-shop model and proximity to suburban locales. It’s continued to cultivate its loyal fan base by experimenting with now-beloved loyalty and rewards programs, while also teaming with major partners like Amazon to help shoppers more seamlessly make online returns.
However, with such a large inventory of items across categories, it can be difficult to identify the best deals at Kohl’s. With that in mind, and with the help of a variety of expert reviews and blogs, here are 18 products to buy at Kohl’s and 10 products you should skip.
Buy: Small kitchen appliances
Whether you’re looking for a coffee grinder, high-powered blender, or waffle-maker, Kohl’s has got you covered. The retailer has a comprehensive assortment of high-quality appliances ready to be put to the test on your kitchen counter.
According to the shopping blog 5 Best Things, consumers can also find an even wider selection of kitchen products on the Kohl’s website.
Buy: Athletic apparel
Kohl’s boasts an impressive array of name-brand sporting goods and athletic apparel for less, such as Adidas, Nike, and Fila Sport. According to The Penny Hoarder, the fitness selection is worth at least a quick browse before hitting the register.
“When all else fails, you probably need a pair of track shorts or a workout tank top,” wrote Lyndsee Simpson of The Penny Hoarder.
Buy: Exclusive designer fashion collections
Beyond athletic apparel, Kohl’s has also transformed itself into a fashion destination, featuring exclusive collections from designers ranging from legends like Vera Wang to celebrities like Lauren Conrad and Jennifer Lopez.
Buy: Men’s accessories
5 Best Things recommends Kohl’s for men’s accessories like ties and socks. “If you’re looking to gift your husband or partner with stylish yet affordable accessories, or if you’re a man looking to buy on-trend essentials, Kohl’s is the right place,” 5 Best Things wrote.
Skip: Furniture
While Kohl’s does have a limited selection of furniture, Rutherford Source — a local community blog in Tennessee — recommends looking into cheaper options like Target, Ikea, or Walmart to avoid breaking the bank.
“Retail prices on Kohl’s furniture offerings are usually too high for coupons to have a significant impact on dropping the cost for the consumer,” wrote Donna Vissman of Rutherford Source. “In addition, shipping charges are exorbitant on oversized items, pushing the price tag up even more.”
Skip: Shoes
Kohl’s has loads of name-brand shoes for the whole family, but experts say they tend to be cheaper, lower quality models and instead suggest heading over to Nordstrom Rack or another discount retailer.
“While Kohl’s occasionally offers decent sale prices on lower-end Nike sneakers, these cheaper models are usually poorer quality than models that can be found in a specialized shoe store,” wrote Donna Vissman of Rutherford Source.
Buy: Home decor
Much like competitors like Marshall’s, TJ Maxx, and HomeGoods, Kohl’s has tons of home decor and wall art at bargain prices for every room of the house.
Buy: Cleaning supplies and appliances
Shoppers looking to keep their homes neat and tidy will find several options at their disposal with cleaning supplies and appliances like vacuum cleaners at discount prices.
Buy: Outdoor decor and activities
Beyond serving as a go-to resource for interior design needs, Kohl’s also has a wide assortment of items to adorn an outdoor space — including everything from fire pits and string lights, to inflatable pools and slip-and-slide activities for children.
Buy: Bedding
According to the shopping blog 5 Best Things, Kohl’s is a good bet for pretty much anything in the home category, but you’ll likely find major bargains on items like bedding and comforters in particular.
Buy: Pillows
While you’re at it, experts say to go ahead and throw some pillows in your cart, too. Parenting blog Mommyish recommends Kohl’s for its high-quality, low-price pillow options from popular brands like Serta, Sealy, and The Big One.
Skip: Toys
Kohl’s may have a large selection of name-brand toys and games, but don’t expect bargain prices. According to Rutherford Source, these products are often overpriced and shoppers will be better suited looking elsewhere.
“Unfortunately, Kohl’s is one of the worst retailers to find a significant discount on toys,” wrote Donna Vissman of Rutherford Source. “Retail prices are inflated on toys; thus coupons don’t have much of an impact. Look to Target and Walmart for better deals in-store as well as Amazon for online deals.”
Skip: Baby and toddler clothing
Just like toys, Kohl’s selection of clothing for babies and toddlers may be impressive, but beware — it’s often pricey. Rutherford Source recommends going directly to the website of popular brands like Carter’s rather than buying at Kohl’s, where you’re likely to find markups.
Buy: Handbags
From bags for the office to clutches for a night out, Kohl’s has a wide range of purses and totes for just about any occasion.
“As long as you aren’t a brand snob, Kohl’s offers excellent prices on quality purses and gloves (often made from real leather),” wrote Kristin Cook of the shopping blog The Checkout.
Buy: Towels
According to the shopping blog The Krazy Koupon Lady, shoppers are usually able to score bargains and deals on towels of all varieties, from kitchen to dish towels.
Skip: Large electronics
According to the shopping blog Ben’s Bargains, large electronics are better left to stores that specialize in such products or online retailers like Amazon.
“Unfortunately, the quality of the off-brand TV models is poor and Kohl’s doesn’t often allow coupons on other small electronics,” wrote Kristin Cook of Ben’s Bargains. “Prices are usually better at any number of electronic retailers such as Best Buy and Amazon.”
Skip: Makeup
Given the limited and over-priced makeup selection at Kohl’s, Mommyish says shoppers are better off going elsewhere for their cosmetic needs.
“Kohl’s just isn’t the place to get your eye shadows and contour plates. Why? They’re too expensive and don’t have the range of shades other places offer,” wrote Mommyish’s Mandy Namchampassack. “Ulta and other specialty stores offer similar makeup brands for less and with more variety.”
Skip: Wrapping paper and gift bags
When looking for a gift, Kohl’s can certainly be a one-stop shop, but Rutherford Source suggests going elsewhere for items like gift wrap and bags which are often marked up.
“You will be paying a premium for these items simply due to the convenience,” Donna Vissman of Rutherford Source said. “As long as you have time, hit up a dollar store for significantly better prices.”
Buy: Low-cost jewelry
While it might not be your go-to destination for a diamond engagement ring, Kohl’s has a plethora of stylish, yet affordable jewelry options across different price points.
According to The Penny Hoarder, shoppers can find especially good deals on exclusive collections from designers like Vera Wang and Lauren Conrad, as well as a wide array of items for less than $10.
