Buying in bulk isn’t always smart. Here's why too much “extra” can lead to waste, overwhelm, and mental clutter in small spaces.

A person tightly hugging a large pack of toilet paper rolls, symbolizing bulk buying anxiety

“Buying in bulk saves money.”

That’s what we’ve been told.
But for many of us—especially Millennials and Gen Z living in small apartments—more stuff often leads to more stress, not more savings.

From the Costco mega-packs to Target’s buy-3-get-1-free deals, stocking up can feel smart—until you’re tripping over surplus or throwing away expired food.
Let’s take a closer look at when “more” starts working against you.

The Hidden Costs of Bulk Buying

Lost space
In a small kitchen, even three extra boxes of cereal or toilet paper can block drawers, limit prep space, or overflow cabinets.
Visual overwhelm
Overflowing shelves and cluttered counters increase cognitive load. When your eyes constantly scan disorganized piles, your brain registers it as mental “noise.”
Waste and redundancy
You forget what you have, repurchase the same item, or toss things after they expire—canceling out any savings you thought you made.

What the Experts Say

According to the Journal of Consumer Psychology, people tend to consume more when items are bought in bulk—even when they don’t need to.
UCLA’s Life at Home project found that homes with high visible storage correlated with elevated cortisol levels in adults—especially women.

Translation: stocking up too much doesn’t just fill your cabinets—it drains your energy.

5 Realistic Ways to Keep It Under Control

Buy only what you’ll use in 7 days
Stick to weekly quantities, even if that means more frequent but lighter shopping trips.
Set a two-item cap for staples
For things like detergent or toilet paper, avoid stockpiling beyond two backups.
Use it up before you buy again
If you haven’t finished what you have, you don’t need more—period.
Do a fridge & pantry check before shopping
Take photos or make a list before you head to the store to avoid duplicating items.
Post a visible mini-inventory
Tape a checklist to your fridge or cupboard door—knowing what you have makes you less likely to impulse-buy.

My Rule: One Note, One Unit, No Extras

Here’s what I do now:
Whenever I need something, I first check how much I have left.
If I’m truly out, I add it to a note on my phone.
Right before I shop, I check that list again.
Only if I still need it do I buy it—and I buy exactly one.

I no longer grab extras just because they’re on sale.
If I haven’t used up the one I already have, I wait.

Why?
Because I live with a daily awareness:
There is already too much stuff in my home.
And that awareness helps me resist the pull of “more” for the sake of peace.