I had never used layaway until last year when the Zhu-Zhu pets and their accessories were the hot item for kids. I loved it because I was able to get the rapidly disappearing toys for my nephews even if I didn't have the full amount at the time. I thought it was actually cheaper than using a credit card. I was able to pay off the amount in 4 weeks and I picked it up and it was packed up and everything! I'll wait and see about Walmart because last year, I wasn't impressed with their toy selection or kid's clothes at Christmas. I do think it is a good idea though as alot of people locally grumbled about it last year while we picked up our layaways at Kmart.