Trader Joe’s is famed for their unique snacks, including their beloved chili and lime tortilla chips and their uber-popular pork and ginger dumplings.
But surprisingly, some of the chain’s best products aren’t edible.
Food Network has compiled a list of the five best Trader Joe’s products that don’t qualify as groceries — and you’ll be sure to notice them next time you’re perusing the aisles.
Tote bags
Perhaps the most popular non-grocery item at Trader Joe’s is their tote bags, the viral object of grocery shopping desire.
The mini tote bag in particular has caused commotion at TJ’s locations. In March 2024, the 13 x 11 x 6 in. carriers quickly became a sensation — with customers waiting in long lines just to get their hands on one.
One TikTok user previously shared a video of a huge group of people crowding around as employees brought the display into the store — getting ready to pounce before the bags were even on the floor.
The bite-sized bags are priced at $2.99, but after selling out, they were resold on eBay at astronomical prices due to the high demand.
“The adorable totes in question are made of the same heavy-duty, 65% cotton/35% polyester blend as our larger, classic Canvas Bags,” the product page said — noting that the bags also have the same “long, comfortable handles.”
The only real difference, the company stated, is the diminutive size.
The last drop in April for spring came in pastel shades of blue, pink, purple and green, though the typical color offerings include navy, yellow, red and green.
Sunscreen
Trader Joe’s Daily Facial Sunscreen is one of the best deals you can get, especially considering it’s looked at as a dupe of the Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen.
The SPF 40 sunscreen is a 1.7-ounce tube that costs just $8.99 — compared to the $38 Supergoop version.
Rather than a sticky white sunscreen, the Trader Joe’s sunscreen is translucent and invisible, oil-free, weightless and unscented.
“If thick, sticky formulas have you forgoing your daily dose of necessary SPF, then this is the Sunscreen for you,” the product page reads.
Flowers
If you’re looking to pick up some flowers for a loved one or for yourself, Trader Joe’s is the way to go.
There’s plenty of options for flower arrangements at the grocery chain — and at a great price. Customers can either pick their own mix of stems and make their own arrangement or opt for a prearranged bouquet.
Their flowers can be used for any occasion, too.
“I get cut flowers almost exclusively from my local Trader Joe’s,” Food Network’s online editor Noelle Paredes said. “Whether I need a simple, seasonal bunch of blooms for my nightstand or I’m creating a holiday tablescape, Trader Joe’s always has the best selection at great prices.”
“I made a massive centerpiece for Thanksgiving this year for under $70 — the same arrangement would cost double from a florist.”
Toilet paper
Trader Joe’s toilet paper is so “super soft,” it even has the phrase in the product name.
Trader Joe’s Super Soft Bath Tissue is just $3.99 for a pack of six “gigantic” rolls of 350 2-ply sheets.
“We’ve gone to create a chlorine bleach free, FSC and Rainforest Alliance certified, septic safe, and recyclable bath tissue that is as kind to your behind as it is to the environment,” the product page said.
People swear by TJ’s toilet paper and claim that it deserves its “super soft” title.
Cards
Trader Joe’s has a plethora of greeting cards, and the designs are both considerate and full of humor.
Plus, the prices can’t be beat. Each card is just $0.99, making it a cheaper option than the Hallmark cards at CVS or Walgreens.