10 HomeGoods Fall Finds That Aren't Worth Buying, According To Shoppers

HomeGoods' business model makes the in-store shopping experience unpredictable. Its assortment of homeware is an ever-changing amalgamation of items from off-price designer brands, department stores, and smaller manufacturers. Because the company buys excess stock from other vendors and frequently refreshes its catalog, browsing a HomeGoods store can lead to unique high-end finds — or major disappointment. Knowing what and what not to look for will reduce the amount of distractions and lead you to worthwhile deals faster. 

Since HomeGoods' merchandise roster is updated daily, it can be a perfect destination for seasonal decor. Before temperatures have even begun dropping, its shelves are already being filled with Fall-inspired items. Dressing your home up to match the time of year can be an irresistible idea, especially for those who crave novelty or simply love following a theme. Still, it's important to shop mindfully and buy only items that genuinely enhance your interiors. Otherwise, it'll just become more clutter you'll eventually need to sort through to sell or give away once winter comes along.

Including fake vintage pieces in your collection is the one styling mistake that instantly devalues your antiques. Because it's a popular aesthetic, HomeGoods always carries a few pieces with a fake patina to mimic antiques. Shoppers consider these items to be of poor taste, as they're simply imitating a look instead of truly embodying it. What makes vintage decor and furniture so coveted is the history they evoke. A distressed mirror or dresser may appear aged, but when the effect is artificial, it lacks the character that genuine wear provides.

Text on decor is a big no-no for most HomeGoods shoppers. Although common in stores, shoppers looking for elevated pieces usually avoid items shaped like words or printed with text. That includes art with inspirational quotes, pillows with quirky messages, and, especially, those sculptures spelling random buzzy words. Don't pick up those kitchen and bathroom ceramics with labels on them, either. Your home will look better if you simply remember where the sugar and salt go, instead.

Pillows, blankets, rugs, and other items with literal or cartoonish designs aren't ideal if you're hoping to make your home look designer-grade. These prints may look adorable, but they're hard to integrate into most design styles, and could end up only contributing to visual clutter. If you want to decorate for Fall, opt for decor in colors that channel the season or with patterns that have a little more longevity to them, like florals or plaid.

It can be hard not to fall into the trap of really kitschy Holiday decor trends. Shelves are stacked with bright, showy, and fun thematic decorative pieces that can be really tempting to bring home. However, you should probably pass on items that look overly plastic or cheaply made. While it might bring short-term joy for Halloween, it likely won't last through the next season. Invest instead in longer-lasting pieces or consider DIY holiday decor. 

Artificial greenery may last longer, but if you're choosing to forgo the beautiful texture and organic essence of real plants, it's best to invest in the most realistic faux alternatives you can find. Shoppers agree that you're unlikely to get that level of detail at HomeGoods. While their selection is vast, the quality can be questionable. Instead, spend a little extra on brands like Afloral and Pottery Barn, and use HomeGoods as a source for affordable, good-looking planters and pots.

There are plenty of items that are worth buying at HomeGoods, but not all the art is worth your dollar. The store regularly carries pieces from small artists who welcome the exposure and distribution. Similarly, you can also come across authenticated gallery-quality paintings with gorgeous frames for great prices. However, it's important to differentiate between great finds like those and the other, mass-produced, generic wall art that HomeGoods also sells, which will only cheapen your decor. Look for certifications, artist tags, or high-quality prints that feel unique and authentic.

Cozy blankets and throws are tempting as the weather cools in fall, and HomeGoods always has plenty to choose from. Shoppers prefer to avoid those shiny, ultra-soft fleece blankets that, although comforting, look too artificial. Prioritize natural fibers when possible, but textured synthetics can also offer an elevated look on a budget. Look for materials like faux wool, faux cashmere, or knitted and woven pieces. 

While possible, it can be quite hard to integrate glitter in home decor without it looking gaudy or tacky. HomeGoods isn't shy about glitter, with plenty of sparkly items on its shelves, especially around holidays like Thanksgiving, Halloween, and Christmas. Their shine and precious stone-like appearance can make these pieces feel exciting and glamorous, but unless used very sparingly as decorative accents, they will just be competing for attention in your home, creating an overwhelming, showy whole. It's best to avoid them.

Similarly, rugs with shiny accents and prints are not the smartest investment when shopping at HomeGoods. These are often made by a machine from synthetic fibers, and they look it. With interior design trends moving toward an appreciation for craftsmanship, as well as warmer, natural materials, anything that looks too artificial is likely to hurt the look of your home. The good news: HomeGoods' off-price designer selection makes it a great source for quality, large rugs at budget-friendly prices.

You can always count on HomeGoods to carry a large assortment of picture frames. While you can find some gems here, shoppers usually want to skip this section if items look cheap. If you're looking to hang prints or otherwise want to ensure they are well protected, it's better to invest in frames made of durable materials, like solid wood or metal, with strong hanging hardware and real glass glazing. If looks, and not performance, are your priority, then any frame will do, but opt for those with matting for a more professional appearance.