15 Bulk Costco Items That Are Actually Worth the Storage Space in Small Homes

Space is an issue. And when it comes to storage, some bulk buys may seem more like a burden than a bargain. Providing you're not in the market for a palatial palace (or at least a multi-story with room to spare), you need to shop strategically.

We've got you covered with the top Costco hacks for saving money on the warehouse club's most popular oversized items. From rolled oats to dish soap, these affordable options won't crowd your cabinets or max out your budget.

Editor's note: Prices and availability are subject to change and may vary by location.

Price: $9.99

Get this massive 10-pound bag of rolled oats for $9.99. That's less than $1 per pound. Eat the healthy whole grain for breakfast with milk, use it to bake bread, make muffins, or swap out breadcrumbs for this crunchy recipe replacement.

The resealable bag locks in freshness for the long haul. But if you don't have space to store this pick, divide it into mason jars or a Pyrex Snapware set ($35.99 for 18 pieces).

Price: $9.99

A headache could strike at any time. And with this 1,000-pill purchase, you won't have to tough out the pain. The Costco brand generic has the same active ingredient as Tylenol for a fraction of the price, making it well worth the storage space. Target sells a pack of 100 brand-name caplets for $1 more ($10.99).

Price: $20.99

This high-quality EVOO is a bulk item that deserves a spot in your pantry. With a 4.8-star rating and over 5,500 reviews, the organic extra virgin olive oil is a top choice. Shoppers call the everyday essential "Excellent with fresh taste," and "Quality for the price."

Price: $17.99

Make lunch for days with this affordable item. Don't worry about storing the entire box of eight in one cabinet or pantry space. Divide up the individual cans to make this bulk buy more manageable. Check your local Costco club for the best deal. We spotted this find for $15.79.

Price: $29.99

Unlike perishable bulk buys, shampoo and conditioner won't go bad anytime soon. This makes your purchase a steal of a deal. Nab the two-pack of 28-ounce bottles for $29.99 right now. The salon-quality pro-stylist-created combo moisturizes and nourishes hair without sulfates, parabens, silicones, or phthalates.

For reference, a single 33.8-ounce bottle of Kristin Ess The One Signature Shampoo costs $24 at Ulta.

Price: $9.99

Costco's new bulk bucket buy is a hot find that's selling fast. The versatile, durable, affordable five-gallon capacity pails aren't items you necessarily need to store. Instead of taking up space under your kitchen sink or in the basement, use the containers to hold anything from craft supplies to rolled towels.

Price: $21.99

There's always space for coffee — especially when it's this beloved brand. Score a 2.81-pound (45 ounces) canister for under $22. You can make up to 150 servings, giving you a reason to clear out extra pantry space for this oversized item.

Price: $19.99

Kirkland's two-pack of 240 calcium, D3, and zinc gummies is a bulk buy that won't crowd your house. Even though you'll get enough vitamins for about eight months, the bottles easily fit in a kitchen cabinet or drawer.

Price: $16.99

Costco's generic KS Flex-Tech 13-gallon scented kitchen bags are a dupe deal you can't pass up. The 200-roll pack includes two rolls, making it easy to separate and store the giant quantity.

This Hefty Ultra copycat is a bargain for $16.99. For reference, a 50-count box from the name-brand costs $11.29 at Target.

Price: $11.99

No room for a massive 35-can pack of sparkling water? No problem. This delicious drink won't last long. Serve the bubbly beverage over ice, mix it into mocktails, or use it to make a refreshing holiday cocktail.

Costco's LaCroix dupe is an affordable alternative. Compare $0.34 per can for the generic to $0.50 for the fancy brand-name buy.

Price: $15.99

A single bulk box of cleansing towelettes is a small home storage nightmare. But this buy features four 30-count reclosable flip-top packs and four 15-count travel packs. Divide the individual items and store them in different drawers, cabinets, or shelves.

Price: $15.99

Freezer bags are a necessity in small homes. Use these double zipper seal top 1.2-gallon bags to store leftovers, fresh fruit, cereal, candy, snacks, crafting supplies, jewelry, and so much more.

Get six boxes of 32 KS bags (192 total bags) for $15.99. Target sells Ziploc's 28-count pack for $5.99. At that price, you'll pay over $41 to get Costco's quantity.

Price: $19.99

While this 12-pack will take up space in your bathroom, closet, or kitchen cabinet, the bulk buy is a versatile option at an affordable price. Obviously, you'll use the three-ply tissues to wipe your nose. But that's not all. Remove makeup, dry your hands, or wipe a mess with these durable cloths.

Price: $10.99

Quinoa is a versatile pantry pick that goes with almost any meal. You won't need to store this 4.5-pound bulk bag for months. Serve the organic side with chicken, fish, tofu, or a fresh green salad.

Price: $9.99

Clean greasy kitchen messes with the fresh-scent liquid. You can also remove laundry stains, wash tools, shine appliances, or get gunk off jewelry. Of course, always test the soap on an inconspicuous place first. With so many uses, the 90-ounce bottle is worth the space it will take to store.

Bulk buys make it easy to save money on groceries. But if you're short on space, a lack of storage could make it difficult to take advantage of these deals.

Not sure what to do with your Costco haul? Here's a tip: Hunt for bargains with a buddy. Find a friend or family member with a warehouse club membership and split larger items — as well as the cost.