Last Updated Nov 19, 2010 10:24 AM EST You head to Costco to stock up on staples -- say, paper towels and cleaning supplies -- but you walk out with three salmon filets, a tub of cream puffs, and a ream of printer paper. Most of us are notoriously poor at assessing a true bargain, says C.W. Park, professor of marketing at the Marshall School of Business at the University of Southern California, and editor of The Journal of Consumer Psychology. Seduced by the prospect of saving money, we give in to impulse buys. Eventually, we regret the purchase or throw much of a past-its-prime product away. It's called the Costco Effect, and it's actually part of the store's incredibly successful retail strategy. But the effect on your wallet is that you spent more than you would have if you'd never seen that "bargain."5 things to buy at Costco6 Clever Tricks for Holiday ShoppersNot So Fast: 7 Things to Buy After ChristmasHere are four product categories where you're better off going somewhere other than Costco.You might score the occasional pair of Lucky jeans or a Speedo swimsuit, but designer duds aren't exactly Job 1 at Costco.

Even if you do see an item from a top-tier name brand, you can't assume it's the same quality as the similar-looking product at a department store. "Just because it's a national brand name, an item of clothing doesn't have to meet the standards you'll see in other stores," says Marshal Cohen, chief retail analyst at the NPD Group, a market research firm.Kathryn Finney, founder of The Budget Fashionista, says it's no secret that most name designers make cheaper lines just for warehouse clubs or outlet stores. The tip-off, says Finney, will be in the packaging and/or label on the garment. Labels on the sub-brands are just glued on, and are usually stiff and crunchy, while labels on high-end goods are softer or silky, and stitched all around. Most shrimp sold in the U.S. is imported from countries in Latin America and Southeast Asia, where environmental regulations are often lax or not enforced, according to the Environmental Defense Fund, (EDF), an education and advocacy non-profit. The EDF classifies shrimp imported from these regions as "eco-worst" for the environmentally destructive ways in which they are often farmed.

Greenpeace took aim at Costco's seafood sustainability practices last June with an aggressive campaign called Oh No Costco. While Costco seafood buyer Bill Mardon says his company has entered into a partnership with the World Wildlife Fund to set global standards for shrimp farming, the specific objectives are still being discussed."Cost Of Cat Grooming At PetcoCostco gets credit for starting down the road," says Tim Fitzgerald, senior policy analyst for oceans at of the EDF, "but they are still very early on." 255 50 R20 Tires ReviewsIn the meantime, you're better off buying shrimp at Trader Joe's, which is much further along on the same path. Best Mud Tire For TeryxAfter Greenpeace launched its Traitor Joe campaign in early 2009, Trader Joe's pledged to remove all non-sustainable seafood from its stores by the end of 2012, and it's already taken concrete steps in that direction.

"Target and Wal-Mart have this market cornered and they do a great job," says Budget Fashionista's Finney. Costco, by contrast, rarely stocks more than a handful of top-selling colors in sheets and towels. "If you want 20 colors, this isn't the place," admits Jim Klauer, Costco merchandise manager for bedding and the home.12-Pound Crates of Navel OrangesSure, it only costs $11.99, but it's not such a good deal if you end up throwing away half the fruit. Same goes for the package of six hearts of romaine lettuce, and the 3-pack of whipped heavy cream (240 servings) unless you're, say, hosting a sleepover for your child's entire soccer team. , which helps shoppers save on food, says that when it comes to produce, it's often more cost-effective to shop at your local supermarket and combine coupons with seasonal specials. Also avoid Costco's candy aisle -- do you really need a 5-pound bucket of licorice twists?This article is part of a package on shopping at Costco. Read the other article on 5 things to buy at Costco.

Whether you’re considering a quick bathroom refresh or total renovation, start at The Home Depot. We proudly feature all the top brands, leading styles and finishes and the newest technology and innovation. Water-saving fixtures, including bathroom faucets and toilets, save you money on utility bills and use less water. From bathtubs and toilets to faucets and vanities, you can transform your bathroom a little or a lot. To complete your bathroom project in style, consider adding a new bath light, bath fan or tile for a great new look without breaking your budget.Please Sign in or Create an account Steam Showers Inc featured on the DIY network We are the largest distributors of steam showers and walk-in tubs in the United States! At Steam Showers Inc. we have been specializing in steam showers, whirlpool bathtubs, toilets, shower panels and walk-in tubs for over 7 years now. Our commitment to our customers has always been the same - excellent customer support, supplying the best steam showers at the lowest prices and backing it up with a guarantee!

Let us help you remodel your bathroom today! Steam Showers Article Summary Monthly Pick – Shower Fixtures – Corner Units Yes, I know that usually the word “fixtures” refers to elements like taps, racks, shower heads… But, when I was thinking of that word, the other idea that came to me was how something like a steam shower, for instance, … The Ultimate Playlist For The Shower Show of hands, everyone. How many of you sing in the shower with or without audio accompaniment (and with or without singing talent)? I do, and I’m not ashamed to admit it! A home spa experience complete with steam shower, … The Hawaiian Steam Shower Experience Have you been lucky enough to visit Hawaii? Unfortunately for me, I haven’t yet been. I would love to drag my toes through the sand and watch the surfers ride huge waves! There’s an upside to my Hawaii-less life … Monthly Pick – Steam Shower Fixtures – Wall Coverings You’ve just picked out your steam shower and the color and style of fixtures that will make your bathroom look like its jumped right out of the pages of your favorite design magazine.

But, you’re not quite done yet. 3 Shower Accessories That Will Help You Relax Showers aren’t just for hygiene anymore. They’re daily spa experiences that can happen at practically any hour. You don’t even need a huge budget or a large bathroom. Just a few choice purchases, like a steam shower or whirlpool bathtub, … We do not ship repackaged or defective products! If your package arrives damaged, we will exchange it for a new one at no cost to you! We only ship genuine brand name products from the original makers like Ariel, Ariel Platinum, AmeriSteam and Royal SSWW. Benefits of using a Steam Shower Helps the body clean itself of toxins and waste Destroys pathogens in the body Expands blood vessels and increases circulation revitalizing your body Stimulates the immune system Using a steam shower can be an effective treatment for respiratory and sinus conditions such as asthma, sinusitis, bronchitis and allergies Your satisfaction is our goal.

Over 20,000+ happy shoppers can't be wrong! Why should you buy ETL Certified Steam Showers? The ETL Listed Mark is proof of product compliance (electrical, gas and other safety standards) to North American safety standards. Authorities having Jurisdiction (AHJ's) in 50 states and Canada and retailers accept the ETL Listed Mark as proof of product safety. In addition, installing an ETL certified steam shower gives you that peace of mind when having your home improvement done to building code. Steam Showers, Whirlpool Bathtubs, Bathroom Vanities, Infrared Saunas & More. Benefits of Using a steam shower for Steam Therapy Can be an effective treatment for respiratory and sinus conditions such as asthma, sinusitis, bronchitis and allergies What can a steam shower do for me? The use of a steam shower after a work-out reduces the production of lactic acid stopping sore muscles before they begin and increasing flexibility. Steam therapy eliminates congestion and inflammation in the lungs bringing relief to allergies and asthma.

The deep cleansing power of steam cleans pores leaving you with younger looking, more radiant skin. A steam shower can be the most relaxing part of your day. With many units containing whirlpool tubs and back massage function, it's like having your own personal spa at home! Tips to stay healthy when using steam showers Do not use steam shower immediately after an intense exercise, let the body return to normal temperature before using your steam bath. Drink plenty of water before and after your steam bath to avoid dehydration due to fluids lost. Avoid using steam rooms if open wounds are present. Avoid using your steam shower in excess of 20 minutes use the timer function to remind you. 100% Lowest Price Guaranteed Our main priority is supplying the top of the line steam showers to customers at the lowest prices guaranteed. If you see a price lower on a competitor's site, just give us a call and we will match it 100%. We're dropping prices on all major brand names!