45 Things You Should Always Buy at the Dollar Store (+ 21 Things You Never Should)
Most smart and frugal shoppers love the Dollar Stores:
Whether it’s the 99c Store, Dollar General, Dollar Tree, or newcomer Five Below, there are tons of great bargains. Buying something for a dollar might seem too good to be true, but for the many dollar store loyalists out there, it’s a fact of life.
So, here are 45 things you should Always buy at a dollar store and 21 things you Never should.
What to Buy at the Dollar Store
Dollar Store Overview:
Dollar Tree currently has 14,000 locations, with plans to open hundreds more in 2018. Comparable sales were up 1.8% at Dollar Tree in the second quarter.
Dollar General currently has about15,000 locations, with plans to open 900 in 2018. Comparable sales were up 3.7% at Dollar General in the second quarter.
While not a traditional dollar store in that its products are priced up to $5, Five Belowcurrently has 625 stores, and it plans to open 50 more this quarter alone. In the second quarter of 2018, Five Below’s comparable sales grew by 2.7%.
What to Buy at the Dollar Store
Housewares & Decor
The nice thing about buying home decor and decorative wares at a dollar store is they’re cheap and easy to replace if they break, or if you feel like switching things up around the house.
• Reusable food storage containers
• Bins for organizing
• Wine glasses
• Mugs
• Plates
• Silverware
• Kitchen towels
• Vases
• Artificial flowers
• Picture frames
• Candle holders
• Cleaning supplies
• Garbage can or waste basket for a bathroom
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Party & Special Occasion Supplies
Party supplies and wrapping paper are a must-buy at the dollar store, as they’re often priced at a fraction of their cost at other stores.
This is ideal– because who wants to spend a fortune on stuff that will be used once and then end up in the trash can?
Frugal Tip: Stock up on holiday items a few weeks after the holiday. You can score amazing deals on Halloween Costumes, Christmas Decorations and more.
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Check your local dollar store for deals on these items:
• Greeting cards
• Gift bags
• Wrapping paper
• Tissue paper
• Balloons
• Holiday decor
• Themed party decorations
• Cups
• Paper plates
• Party utensils
• Napkins
• Table cloth
• Birthday candles
• Large bowls for chips and snacks
Kids’ Gear
These inexpensive items will not only keep your kids busy on rainy days, but they can also act as perfect goody-bag fillers, stocking stuffers and Easter basket surprises.
• Books
• Coloring books and activity books
• Puzzles
• Craft supplies
• Colored paper
• Stickers
• Flash cards
Personal Items:
Believe it or not, you can find a lot of everyday items, even name-brands, at the dollar store for less!
• Tissues
• Lint roller
• Hair accessories such as headbands and hair ties
• Hair brush
• Name brand / dentist recommended toothbrushes
• Name brand make-up, lotion, and toiletries
• Dixie cups
• Books
• Cookbooks
• Pet toys
• Photo albums
• Flower pots
• Watering cans
• Wind chimes or outdoor decor
Don’t forget to check for coupons before you shop
Check out my post on how I save 40% using coupons here.
What NOT To Buy At The Dollar Store
Of course every store varies and there can be some fantastic brands of these below items, but generally, these items should be avoided:
• Power Strips, Electrical Cords and Electronics:
Any time something electrical is made with lesser quality materials, it can lead to electrical fires and a generally subpar device.
• Batteries that Contain Carbon Zinc:
Inferior batteries can cause serious damage since they can leak. Also, they run out of juice a lot sooner than mainstream brands.
• Vitamins and Medication:
Studies have shown that vitamins and medication at the dollar store are often missing essential ingredients and aren’t as strictly regulated by the FDA.
• Plastic Wrap, Oven Mitts and Knives: These items simply don’t work as well as the more expensive variety.
• Toys that can break into small pieces: Any plastic toys that can easily break into smaller pieces aren’t a good idea for your kids.
• Cotton Swabs: They have a tendency to break easier and since the name brand is not much more, you’re better off going with that.
• Off-Brand Makeup, Shampoo and Conditioner, and Lotions: While some people swear by these dollar store products to save money, it really depends on the specific item. Many of these items are filled with chemicals that could be harsh on your skin and dry out your hair. Plus, they may not be allergy tested.
• Candles: Generally, candles don’t burn long and omit a less-than-desirable odor.
• Glue and Crayons: These items simply do not work as well, and you’ll be spending more to replace them.
• Pet Food: Depending on the product, some pet foods you’d find at the dollar store may not be as carefully regulated as other stores.
• Kids’ Floaties (Flotation Devices): With anything involving safety, you’re better off paying more for a stronger, more durable flotation device.
• Some Cleaning Supplies: Much of the feedback on dollar store cleaning supplies is they are more diluted than a regular brand.
Even in a retail shopping world dominated by behemoths like Amazon and Wal-Mart, dollar stores provide excellent deals. And if you can shop after holidays, there are some incredible deals. Every dollar counts.