If you’re a Target shopper, you know that the retail giant has some awesome deals. But not every item in Target’s aisles is a bargain. In order to save money there, you need to know what to buy as well as what to skip. 

BEST TARGET DEALS

COSMETICS

With its large selection of cosmetics, Target can help you look your best without breaking your budget, said Jon Lal, the founder of BeFrugal.com. At Target, “It’s easy to find quality makeup and hair products no matter what your budget,” he said. He added that Target allows you to combine manufacturer coupons with their own to maximize your savings.

GENERIC PHARMACY ITEMS

We all know how expensive medicine can be, but Lal said some of the best Target deals can be found in the pharmacy. “Target has reportedly done very well during comparisons with pharmacy drug prices,” he said. “Their generic version consistently costs less than most other drugstore brands.” Feeling better yet?

FAN GEAR

Want to score a great deal on your favorite team jersey, mug or backpack? You’ll find some of the best deals at Target, said Jeanette Pavini, a savings expert with Coupons.com. “For example, right now you can get a kid’s NFL jersey for $27.99,” she said.

WEDDING REGISTRY

“If you have the option to buy for a couple off of a Target wedding registry, do it,” said Pavini. It comes with perks for both the giver and receiver. After the event, newlyweds get a coupon for 15 percent off remaining items on their registry. Givers get free shipping on all orders of $25 or more and can take advantage of coupon codes like the one Coupons.com found for 20 percent off when you spend at least $100 on a wedding registry, said Pavini. Maybe it is better to give than receive after all.

DIAPERS

Sometimes it seems as if wrapping your baby in dollar bills would be cheaper than using diapers. But shopping at Target might help, said Lindsay Sakraida, director of content marketing at DealNews.com. “Diapers are generally a good buy from Target, especially if the specific type that you need isn’t available for an Amazon Mom discount, which typically cuts 20 percent off,” she said. To get the best value, she suggested looking for promotions that snag a free $10-$25 gift card with your order.

WORST DEALS AT TARGET

COOKWARE

“Target’s Chefmate Aluminum Set came in 12 out of 13 in a Consumer Reports test,” said Regina Conway, a consumer expert with Slickdeals.net. “The cost may seem low at face value, but compromising on quality cookware can cost you in the long run by having to replace it.”

Instead, she advises consumers to look for coupon codes for higher-quality cookware sets, particularly around three-day holiday weekend or Black Friday sales. And Lori McDaniel of Offers.com recommended Cooks.com or Macy’s for better quality cookware at comparable prices.

BIG FURNITURE

When it comes to home furnishings, Target can be hit and miss. “You won’t find a lot of the big items like couches and dining room tables,” said Pavini.

Even if you do, it’s better to skip those items. “Shop sales at department stores or even at Ikea for better-quality furniture at similar or lower prices,” said McDaniel.

BESTSELLERS

If you still read books the old-fashioned way, don’t look for literary deals at Target. You’re better off buying books from Amazon, said Conway. “For example, ‘The Girl on the Train’ will cost you $18.86 at Target, whereas its price point at Amazon ranges around $16, and the Kindle version will cost you under $8,” she said. So, maybe it’s time to trash the paper.

SHOES

“Unless you’re opting for styles that are made for comfort, shoppers should probably avoid shoes at Target — especially when it comes to women’s heels and dress shoes,” said Sakraida. She said that is especially true for tight styles meant to be worn without socks. “It’s worth investing in natural leathers and better design quality, otherwise you’ll be left hobbling with blisters,” she said. Sakraida suggested checking shoes sales at places like 6pm.com.

SPORTING GOODS

Sure, you can find great fan gear at Target, but when it comes to hitting the court or field yourself, McDaniel said give Target a miss. “Better to go to a sporting goods store and use coupons. You’ll have higher-quality items, better sales and better selection,” she said.