By now it’s likely you’ve heard about Temu (which we all found out we were pronouncing wrong, thanks to its ad during the Big Game). The shopping site is taking the e-commerce scene by storm. You may have downloaded the app on the recommendation of a friend or stumbled across an ad while scrolling social media. Either way, Temu has been very clever on the marketing front luring buyers in with unbelievable first-time shopper discounts, special app-only pricing and free shipping. With prices so low and literal countdown timers on the product pages, you might be tempted to fill your cart to the virtual brim in a hurry.
As various Temu fails TikToks are pointing out, quality may vary, product photos can be misleading and, sometimes, products on Temu are low priced for a reason. That said, you can also find great bargains on Temu and truly feel, as their ads say, like you’re shopping like a billionaire.
Check out the five categories we think are safe to shop on Temu and the five categories it’s probably best to avoid. A good rule of thumb is to read the entire product description instead of solely relying on the photos and always have realistic expectations when it comes to quality.
5 Things to Buy at Temu
Office Supplies
Why it’s a good Temu buy: Take your basic office supplies from boring to delightful. Shop paper clips in every shape possible, push pins in an assortment of themes, rubber bands and pens and sticky notes in every color and size imaginable. The variety is endless and the prices can’t be beat.
Keep in mind: Check the package sizes offered in each listing to be sure you are getting a good deal. For example, some themed paper clips may come in smaller quantities of 10 while other shapes come in 50 to 100 pieces.
Kitchen Storage and Organization
Why it’s a good Temu buy: Aesthetically organized fridges and pantries seem to be all the rage right now and Temu is a great option to get in on this trend. Basic clear bins will be a good start to your organizational endeavor and since functionality is the name of the game here, it’s really not necessary to spend a ton to accomplish the look you’re going for. Plus, there are a ton of other affordable gadgets and storage options to get the job done.
Keep in mind: Measure your space and be sure to choose the correct sizing for the best fit. Reference the pictures or product details for exact measurements.
Arts & Crafts
Why it’s a good Temu buy: In this category, bulk purchasing is a no brainer. Beading and jewelry making are hot buys in bulk as well as sublimation items for crafting. Snagging hot glue gun sticks in value packs isn’t a bad idea either.
Keep in mind: If your crafting project has a deadline or you’re purchasing a gift, be mindful of estimated delivery dates and possible shipping delays.
Couch & Sofa Decor
Why it’s a good Temu buy: Switching out home decor can get costly but not when you can find pillow and chair covers for less at Temu. Browse a variety of colors and seasonal patterns to switch up your space on the regular. And if your furry friends are allowed on the furniture, checking out the sofa slipcovers could be a game changer.
Keep in mind: Double-check the fabric content and whether or not the material is machine washable. Items that are spot clean only can prove tricky when stained, while dry clean-only items can lead to additional expenses.
Pet supplies
Why it’s a good Temu buy: From dogs to reptiles and everything in between, you can spoil your pets even more at these prices. But pay special attention to the Bowls and Feeders subcategory here as these items are necessities and with elevated feeding stands, automatic food dispensers, water fountains and travel feeders, you’ll find reasonably priced options for every meal-time scenario.
Keep in mind: Durability is important when it comes to pet items such as beds, collars or leashes, so if you are shopping for these items, definitely read as many details and reviews as possible.
5 Things to Probably Not Buy at Temu
If you do decide to take a chance on any of these categories and end up disappointed in your purchase, Temu does have a nifty return policy.
Baby and Toddler Toys
Why it’s an iffy Temu buy: Temu is known for selling generic knock-offs which is one reason prices tend to be quite reasonable. But since babies and toddlers test out toys with their mouths first, this is a category where it’s safer to stick to brand names that we know and trust.
Possible exceptions: Browsing the rest of the baby category yields some possibilities in the nursery decor and organization section as well as stroller accessories if you find yourself in need.
Automotive
Why it’s an iffy Temu buy: Safety is top priority when it comes to all things automobile. Let’s skip purchasing replacement parts, tires, wheels and automotive tools. It just doesn’t make sense to take any chances with one of your biggest assets.
Possible exceptions: If you’re still curious, Temu does have some automotive accessories like phone mounts, mini car trash cans and steering wheel covers that might be worth a try.
Smart Home
Why it’s an iffy Temu buy: Smart devices were born to simplify our lives by enabling us to control connected devices from our phones. You’ll need to download the corresponding apps to accomplish control though and security might be an issue when adding apps from various off-brand smart devices available from Temu. It’s better to be cautious here and safeguard your information and identity by avoiding this category altogether.
Possible exceptions: None, it’s too risky.
Musical Instruments
Why it’s an iffy Temu buy: Selling musical instruments is a true testament to the vast array of items Temu offers. Brass, woodwind and even stringed instruments are available to purchase. However, since quality is of the utmost importance to musicians and product reviews are hit or miss, this is probably a purchase to make elsewhere.
Possible exceptions: The percussion subcategory has some unique simple percussion instruments like tambourines, cabasas and maracas which could work for music classrooms or pretend play time.
Glass or Fragile Items
Why it’s an iffy Temu buy: This suggestion isn’t specific to any certain category but keep in mind that Temu tends to be somewhat haphazard when it comes to shipping. Most items are shipped in those infamous orange logo bags and are simply wrapped with tape. Since packing materials are quite minimal, you might want to think twice about purchasing glass or overly fragile items to avoid anything breaking during shipping.
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