The Best Things to Buy at HomeGoods, According to Designers

HomeGoods is one of those stores where you can find something great around every corner. We’ve tapped a few pros to fill us in on the HomeGoods finds designers recommend snagging next time you’re browsing the aisles. Whether you’re looking for something to tie your living room design together, an affordable upgrade for the guest bedroom, or a practical kitchen solution, you’ll almost certainly find it at HomeGoods.

“When shopping at HomeGoods, it’s really all about the hunt,” says Katherine Moore of Murphy & Moore Design. “There’s always something fresh, unexpected and genuinely useful, especially for designers like us who are constantly sourcing both practical pieces and finishing touches.”

One of the most fun things about HomeGoods is that the inventory is constantly changing. Even if you don’t find what you’re looking for initially, there’s a good chance it’ll pop up on your next visit.

Ahead, experts share the HomeGoods finds to keep an eye out for, from chic party essentials to linens that feel far more expensive than they are. For more tips to help you shop on a budget, read up on the T.J. Maxx buys organizers recommend and the Five Below deals designers say are worth it.

Stylish Dishware

You can usually find everything from everyday dinner plates and cereal bowls to special pieces that can enhance a dinner party. “We like to search for beautiful platters, glassware and serving pieces that can elevate a staging moment or client install,” Moore says.

Towels

Designer Marie Cloud of Indigo Pruitt says don’t overlook the towel section. She has one rule for picking the right style: “I’m always looking for plush textures, subtle patterns or elevated neutrals that bring a spa-like feel to bathrooms or add that perfect finishing touch when staging,” Cloud says. “They’re an easy, affordable way to layer in softness and make a space feel intentional.”

Throw Pillows

HomeGoods usually categorizes pillows by color, which makes it easy to find the right design for your home’s palette. “They are fun, cozy and the simplest way to refresh any space without breaking the bank,” says Tehilla Bennett of Teela Bennett Design. It’s also simple to change them seasonally if you want. Bennett says to think “fresh, bright colors in spring when everything starts to bloom, and warm, textured fabrics in the fall to make the space feel cozy.”

Decorative Vases and Trays

Home Made by Carmona‘s Ursula Carmona, who uses her platform to spread the word about the retailer as a HomeGoods Featured Finder, tends to frequent this section of the store. “HomeGoods is my emergency run for those final decorative accessories after completing a room,” says Carmona, who often looks for eye-catching trays, vases and sculptural pieces. “They are more than just fillers; a room doesn’t feel complete without these charming touches.”

Picture Frames

It’s easy to find frames to arrange a gallery wall or a unique pick to display a favorite family photo on a console table. “You really can’t beat [its] prices on frames, and they are such an easy upgrade,” Bennett says. You can usually spot wood styles, gold designs, patterned options, you name it.

Kids’ Bathroom Accessories

Outfitting a bathroom for a young kid or teenager? You can look to the retailer for bath mats and vanity countertop accessories. “Though HomeGoods is more temporal in nature, we love the thrill of finding perfect pieces for rooms that will be outgrown in a few years,” says designer Lara Apelian of Lara Apelian Studio.

Lighting

Table lamps and floor lamps are another area where the retailer shines. “Everyone is obsessed with ‘the small light’ for good reason; this is where ambiance makes a home feel cozy,” Carmona says. “HomeGoods is always my go-to for stylish and affordable lighting. From trendy table lamps, to show-stopping floor lamps, to the most adorable little cordless lamps we’ll take with us from room to room.