Why This Interior Designer Skips These Items at HomeGoods

July 8, 2026 - 01:31

Even as a devoted fan of HomeGoods, I have learned to steer clear of certain products that seem tempting but rarely deliver lasting value. As an interior designer, I walk those aisles with a critical eye, and here is what I never put in my cart.

Large mirrors are a common miss. They often have warped glass or cheap frames that look fine from a distance but fail up close. The distortion can ruin a room's balance, and the frames chip or peel within months. I tell clients to invest in a solid mirror from a dedicated supplier instead.

Candles are another category I avoid. HomeGoods stocks plenty of them, but the scent quality is inconsistent, and many use synthetic fragrances that give me a headache. The glass containers also tend to be poorly made, cracking when the candle burns low. I prefer smaller brands that focus on natural wax and safe vessels.

Couches and large upholstered furniture are a hard no. The cushions often lack proper support, the fabric pills quickly, and the construction cannot handle daily use. A sofa is a long-term investment, and HomeGoods' prices, while lower, do not justify replacing it every two years. I would rather save up for a piece built to last.

That said, I still love browsing HomeGoods for accent pillows, decorative trays, and seasonal decor. The trick is knowing where to splurge and where to walk away.