dollar store

Ask the Readers: What Are Your Favorite Dollar Store Buys?

Ashley Jacobs — Tue, 30 Jul 2019 08:30:06 +0000

The dollar store is a great place to get inexpensive household goods, party favors, craft supplies, and other knick-knacks.

What are your favorite dollar store buys? Are there items that you only buy at a dollar store — or that you never buy there? What is the most surprising thing you've seen sold at a dollar store?

Tell us about your favorite dollar store buys and we'll enter you in a drawing to win a $20 Amazon Gift Card!

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Tell us about your favorite dollar store buys and we'll enter you in a drawing to win a $20 Amazon Gift Card!

This article is from Ashley Jacobs of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Best Money Tips: Things to Avoid at the Dollar Store

Amy Lu — Mon, 24 Jul 2017 08:30:09 +0000

Welcome to Wise Bread's Best Money Tips Roundup! Today we found articles on items to avoid at the dollar store, travel mistakes to stop making when you hit 30, and bathroom hacks that will simplify your life.

Best Money Tips: 85 Things You Should Buy at the Dollar Store

Amy Lu — Fri, 14 Apr 2017 08:00:07 +0000

Welcome to Wise Bread's Best Money Tips Roundup! Today we found articles on items you should buy at the dollar store, great jobs for retirees, and how going to college abroad can help you save money.

Best Money Tips: How to Resell Dollar Store Goods

Amy Lu — Tue, 01 Nov 2016 09:30:37 +0000

Welcome to Wise Bread's Best Money Tips Roundup! Today we found articles on two tricks to help you resell anything from a dollar store, states to avoid in retirement, and how to disagree without getting angry.

11 Dollar Store Buys That Are Almost Too Good to Believe

Kyle James — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 09:30:21 +0000

A couple years ago, my wife and I took our three kids to the dollar store to do their Christmas shopping, and I vividly remember walking down the aisles wondering why the heck we don't shop there all the time. I ended up with a basket full of dollar deals and have been a regular ever since. Here are the 11 items that are total steals and you'd be crazy to buy anywhere else.

1. Toiletries

Often when shoppers think of items like shampoo, deodorant, and toothpaste from the dollar store, they think of generic products that don't work well. While the dollar store does have some generics, they also sell quality brands like VO5, Suave, and even Pantene from Dollar General.

Toothpaste and deodorant are more of the same. Look for amazing deals on Colgate, Crest, Speed Stick, Degree, and Dial products. The savings are easily in the 60%–70% range when comparing the price to your local grocery store.

2. Household Tools

I'm talking about basic tools every homeowner or renter needs. Things like a screwdriver, hammer, wrench, and even a small hand-saw can all be found for a buck each. Are they going to be top quality? Well of course not, but for small jobs around the house that don't require the best, they do what you need them to do and provide a terrific value.

3. Cleaning Supplies

Quality cleaning product brands you can usually find at the dollar store include Lysol, Palmolive, and Comet. While the bottle size may be smaller than at regular retailers, the per-ounce cost at the dollar store will almost always beat other stores. This is even true when you consider coupons that you can use at stores like Walmart, Target, and grocery stores.

4. Pregnancy Tests

Yes, I said pregnancy tests. Turns out pregnancy tests from the dollar store are 99% accurate. While name brand versions range from $9–$15, the dollar store alternative is a great value for essentially the same item.

5. Party Supplies

The next time you're planning your child's birthday party — or any party, for that matter — consider stocking up on party supplies at your local dollar store. Most have a fantastic selection of not only party decorations, but also plates, napkins, and plastic utensils all priced for under $1.

6. Reading Glasses

If you need a pair of reading glasses, you'd be crazy to not shop at the dollar store first. The quality is very similar to those you'll find at a drugstore, but at a fraction of the price. At the $1 price tag, you'd be smart to stock-up on a couple pairs, as they have a tendency to get lost or broken.

7. Storage Containers

When it comes to organizing your closet, pantry, office bathroom, or even your garage, the dollar store is a great place to stock up on storage and organizing products. From larger storage bins, to smaller organizing containers, you'll find a plethora of products to help you organize your home on the cheap. Many Dollar Tree locations even carry vacuum-sealed storage bags that are great for storing clothing that you won't be wearing until the following year.

8. Hair Accessories

Products like combs, brushes, hair scrunchies, bobby pins, hair ties, and the like, are a terrific value at the dollar store. Not only will they save you money, but they'll do the same job as more expensive versions found at department stores.

9. Greeting Cards

Shop for quality greeting cards at the dollar store and kiss $4.99 Hallmark cards goodbye. Keep in mind that what you write on the card, and any cool DIY tidbits you add to the card are what makes it special. The fancy cardstock, bows, and ribbons found on expensive cards do nothing but make American Greetings and Hallmark rich.

10. Wrapping Paper and Gift Bags

Since you're now buying greeting cards from the dollar store, you might as well stock-up on wrapping paper and gift bags, too. After all, a roll of wrapping paper typically costs $3–$5 and large gift bags are often priced similarly.

11. Books

Shh, don't tell my dad, but every Christmas I buy him a new hardcover book from our local dollar store. While many of the titles have been out at least a year or two, they typically have a nice selection of both nonfiction and fiction books. My dad is a bit of a history nerd, so the last couple years I found him books on the Civil War, along with a book chronicling the relationship between Ronald Reagan and Tip O'Neill. Needless to say, he loved them both.

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This article is from Kyle James of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

10 Things You Should Never Buy at the Dollar Store (and 10 You Should)

Paul Michael — Wed, 08 Jan 2014 11:25:26 +0000

Who doesn't love a trip to the dollar store? You walk in with five bucks, and you walk out with a bag full of stuff. (See also: Home Decorating for Under $5)

Of course, the stuff you have in that bag is going to vary in quality from good to "Are you sure you want to take the risk?" So I have compiled a top 10 list of things to buy, and 10 things to steer clear of.

What to Buy

Here are the items you should look out for every time you're at the dollar store.

1. Gift Wrap, Cards, and Party Supplies

What's the most depressing thing about buying gift-wrap? Personally, I hate spending $3-$4 on a roll of paper that is specifically designed to be seen for 10 seconds before it's ripped off and thrown in the trash. That's why I always get it from the dollar store. It's 75% cheaper, it looks just the same, and it's not so painful to see it get annihilated. While you're there, grab balloons, plates, cups, plastic cutlery, greeting cards, and anything else related to a birthday or anniversary. You'll save a ton of money over the years.

2. Glassware, Cups, and Mugs

There's a decent selection of glassware in most dollar stores, and they're perfectly safe for the home. They're not made of inferior glass that will shatter when you breathe on them. The glasses may not be the most current styles, and you may not get exactly the shape you were looking for. But if you're just looking to add a few glasses to your cupboard, your money goes a long way here. The same goes for cups and mugs. Again, don't expect a massive array of the latest styles. But they hold tea and coffee just fine.

3. Reusable Plastic Containers

It's often called Gladware, but that's a brand name. You can find these storage containers made by Betty Crocker, Ziploc, Rubbermaid, Tupperware, and many others. Your selection may not be that great in the dollar store, but you'll get a lot more containers for your cash.

4. Coloring Books, Crayons, and Kids' Crafts

The prices of coloring books range from "how much?!" to "seems reasonable." In the dollar store, however, they're as cheap as chips. And while you're there, stock up on crayons, pencils, erasers, pipe cleaners, colored paper, and glue sticks. (See also: Budget Design Ideas for a Kids’ Playroom)

5. Batteries

"No way," I hear you cry! Well, yes way. Fine, dollar store batteries aren't as good as the expensive, name brand batteries. Dollar store batteries are usually older carbon-zinc technology, as opposed to alkaline or lithium. BUT, when you're paying $1 for a pack of 4 AA batteries, and the name-brand variety costs $5-$6, you are getting a better deal. So, they won't last as long, but they're at least 80% cheaper. If you don't mind replacing batteries more often (and checking often too, as some batteries will leak if left in too long) they'll do just fine; especially for those power-draining kids toys.

6. Holiday Decorations

Easter. Halloween. Christmas. Thanksgiving. If you can name a holiday, there are expensive decorations to buy. Luckily, your dollar store has a good stock of bargain decorations, and few people will know the difference. A word of warning though…avoid anything electrical (see the first point in the "Do Not Buy" list below). (See also: Holiday Shopping at the Dollar Store)

7. Most Cleaning Products

Bleach is bleach. Ammonia is ammonia. Glass cleaner is glass cleaner. Don't worry about paying 75% more for the name brand versions; just get down to your dollar store and stock up on the cleaning products you need at bargain prices. You may find some of the products are not as strong as the name brand versions, but just use a little more. At these prices, you can afford to. While you're in that aisle, pick up sponges, dishcloths, towels, and other cleaning products. (See also: The 5 Best All-Purpose Cleaners)

8. Personal Hygiene Items

Go ahead and spend a small fortune on those name brand shampoos, conditioners, shaving creams, deodorants, and toothpastes if you want. Cheap shampoos and conditioners often work as well as more-expensive ones. (See also: Luxury Hair Treatments From Your Kitchen)

9. Socks

Whether for the gym or daily wear, you'll find bargain socks in the dollar store. Just evaluate them as you would any other item of clothing. Some can be very thin and not offer the cushioning you'd like.

10. Movie Theater Candy

Those boxes of candy they sell for an arm and a leg in the cinema are being sold in dollar stores, often at 2-for-1 prices. Stick to the name brands like Raisinets, Skittles, Jujyfruits, Whoppers, and Hot Tamales, and you'll do just fine. Of course, always check expiration dates on any food you buy. (See also: A Quick Guide to Expiration Dates)

10 Things to Avoid

From good value, we move to not so good. Or absolutely no way! Here are 10 things to put on your "avoid at all costs" list.

1. Anything With a Plug

There is no way of knowing if these items have met the minimum safety requirements, because the UL (Underwriters Laboratories) safety seal is often counterfeited. So although those night lights, extension cords, and other electrical "bargains" seem like a good deal, avoid them.

2. Food Storage Bags, Aluminum Foil, and Cling Wrap

You really do get what you pay for with these household staples. It may only be a buck for a box of bags, but look again. How many bags are you really getting? And will they hold a seal like the name brand bags you buy in grocery stores? As for cling wrap, it won't be of the same quality as the varieties you'll find in your supermarket. Expect it to be tricky to get off the roll, thin, and not very "clingy" at all. And the foil will be paper-thin and tear easily.

3. Kitchen Utensils

I speak from personal experience on this one. Way too many times have I been tempted to buy a spatula, can opener, or cooking knife from the dollar store. In my experience, they are not well made — especially when it comes to knives. Buy good quality knives, especially a chef's knife, and don't skimp on the price. If you get a quality knife, it can last you a lifetime.

4. Vitamins

If you've looked at the prices of vitamins in your local grocery store or health food shop, you wouldn't be faulted for trying to find them cheaper elsewhere. However, the dollar store is not the place to look. Daily Finance cites a 2004 Consumer Reports study that says half of the 18 multivitamins they tested were missing vital ingredients. And the FDA does not have tight controls on vitamins. Bottom line — they probably won't hurt you, but you may be getting short-changed.

5. Toys

When your kids are involved, it's best to err on the side of caution. Many unbranded toys from the dollar store are low quality. What's more, they may not meet current safety regulations. You don't want to risk the safety of your child to save a few bucks. If money is an issue, shop the clearance aisles in retail stores, or look for good, used toys on Craigslist and second hand stores. (See also: 10 Fun, Homemade Toys and Games)

6. Medicines

When it comes to your health, it's better to go with the name brand or generic items in the supermarkets and retail stores. Painkillers may be substandard, counterfeited, or lacking ingredients that the label claims they have. And one of the biggest problems is medicines like Ibuprofen have often gone past their expiration dates. Keep a watchful eye before you buy.

7. Oven Mitts

They're cheap, and they look the same as more expensive versions. The difference is in the construction and the padding, and you don't want to mess around with something designed to protect you. Do yourself (and your hands) a favor, and buy the more expensive versions. You'll be glad you did.

8. Soda

The one-liter bottles of soda in dollar stores are not really a bargain. You can usually pick up a two-liter of the same variety for just a few cents more at your local grocery store. And the same goes for cans and smaller bottles of soda, too. It's really not worth it. (See also: Homemade Soda)

9. Tools

Any DIY aficionado will tell you — a $1 screwdriver or hammer is going to break, and quickly. As someone who does a fair bit of DIY myself, I can tell you that tools are worth the investment. Don't go anywhere near the tool section in a dollar store; you are just throwing your money down the drain. And more importantly, poorly made tools can be dangerous. (See also: Cool Tool Gifts for Fixer Uppers)

10. Chewing Gum

There's nothing wrong with it, but it's just not a bargain. Go to a warehouse club like Costco or Sam's Club and you'll pick up a huge pack of gum and save way more money than you would buying gum from the dollar store.

So, that's my list. 10 to try, 10 to avoid. Do you agree? Have you got other things you would add to either list? Let us know.

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This article is from Paul Michael of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Best Money Tips: Things You Should Buy at a Dollar Store

Ashley Jacobs — Tue, 26 Mar 2013 09:48:31 +0000

Welcome to Wise Bread's Best Money Tips Roundup! Today we found some great articles on things you should buy at a Dollar Store, de-stressing during the workday, and tweeting your way to a new gig.

9 Dollar Store DIY Projects to Try Out

POPSUGAR Smart Living — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 10:24:07 +0000

Some DIY projects can get pricey because of the materials, but you can always keep your costs low if you stick to dollar store items! I recently spotted this cool site called Dollar Store Crafts that has plenty of great ideas for what to do with your $1 goodies. Read on to find out some of my favorite dollar store projects.

RELATED: How to Make Detergent

Umbrella With Ruffles

To make the umbrella with ruffles, purchase $1 shower curtain liners from your local dollar store to make cute ruffles, and sew them onto a plain umbrella you already have.

Bonus points for you if you want to add a cute flower-like detail using an old button as the center of the flower and sewing on the ruffle around it.

T-Shirt Necklace

There's plenty of cheap t-shirts you can find at the dollar store, and if you find one in a color you love, you can consider making this flowery bib necklace out of the T.

Japanese Lantern

Make this Japanese-style lantern out of manila folders, bamboo chopsticks or wooden skewers, and colored tissue paper, rice paper, or textured paper.

Egg Pendant Lamp

Make an egg pendant lamp with oversized plastic eggs (courtesy of Easter) from the dollar store, battery-operated tea lights, and some string.

Spring Table Runner

This Spring table runner was made out of dish towels from the dollar store. All the crafter did was use leftover cloth to stitch on some flowers and sewed together three dish towels to make this runner.

Flower Brooch

Make an oversized flower brooch from The Original Shammy, a dollar store staple.

Shabby Chic Hooks

Buy plastic hooks from the dollar store and stick faux metal embellishment tags on them. Then paint them with some acrylic paint, and you have your shabby chic hooks!

Tiled Mirror

To get this beautiful tiled mirror, piece together nine framed mirrors from the dollar store.

Beaded Chandelier

Get some hanging baskets from the dollar store as well as some Mardi Gras-style beads to create this lovely beaded chandelier.

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Get your craft on for less with these fun and inexpensive projects for accessories, home decorations, and more.

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This article is from POPSUGAR Smart Living of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Getting it Done at Dollar Tree

Staff — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 16:39:37 +0000

While dollar-priced retail chains are nothing new, the Dollar Tree stores in particular have caught my attention as having a few categories of coolness. So what do I find there that I can't necessarily put my hands on at some of the other stores? Read on.

Crafting supplies, including glass pebbles and river rocks to create your own spa candles or table-scapes.
Children's art materials to celebrate creativity in your home, classroom, or homeschooling environment. We're talking paint brushes, craft sticks, colored art foam, pipe cleaners and more.
Square storage baskets with handles. I found these in fun colors and a size that is actually conducive to storing things in an organized fashion. Great for organizing your shelving or pantry.
Very affordable manicure items. OK, so the selection isn't going to rival Sally's Beauty Supply. But there are still a fair number of decent quality cheapies to help you create that at home spa bathroom affordably.
Various sizes of affordable scrub brushes (including bottle brushes for any canning jars you use to store leftovers) for easy housework hacking.
Dirt cheap personal care products, including Pepsodent and triple antibiotic ointments. (Remember, this brand of toothpaste scored well on the EWG toxicity scale. Here's the article, for your reference.)
Decent gift wrapping supplies. If you weren't able or interested to stock up on this stuff during post season sales you can easily get the gift wrapping job done at this store throughout the year.

Got another great bargain idea you can pull off at the Dollar Tree? Clue us in with a comment post!

This article is from Staff of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

dollar store

Ask the Readers: What Are Your Favorite Dollar Store Buys?

Win 1 of 3 $20 Amazon Gift Cards

Giveaway Rules:

Best Money Tips: Things to Avoid at the Dollar Store

Top 5 Articles

Other Essential Reading

Best Money Tips: 85 Things You Should Buy at the Dollar Store

Top 5 Articles

Other Essential Reading

Best Money Tips: How to Resell Dollar Store Goods

Top 5 Articles

Other Essential Reading

11 Dollar Store Buys That Are Almost Too Good to Believe

1. Toiletries

2. Household Tools

3. Cleaning Supplies

4. Pregnancy Tests

5. Party Supplies

6. Reading Glasses

7. Storage Containers

8. Hair Accessories

9. Greeting Cards

10. Wrapping Paper and Gift Bags

11. Books

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10 Things You Should Never Buy at the Dollar Store (and 10 You Should)

What to Buy

1. Gift Wrap, Cards, and Party Supplies

2. Glassware, Cups, and Mugs

3. Reusable Plastic Containers

4. Coloring Books, Crayons, and Kids' Crafts

5. Batteries

6. Holiday Decorations

7. Most Cleaning Products

8. Personal Hygiene Items

9. Socks

10. Movie Theater Candy

10 Things to Avoid

1. Anything With a Plug

2. Food Storage Bags, Aluminum Foil, and Cling Wrap

3. Kitchen Utensils

4. Vitamins

5. Toys

6. Medicines

7. Oven Mitts

8. Soda

9. Tools

10. Chewing Gum

Like this article? Pin it!

Best Money Tips: Things You Should Buy at a Dollar Store

Top 5 Articles

Other Essential Reading

9 Dollar Store DIY Projects to Try Out

Umbrella With Ruffles

T-Shirt Necklace

Japanese Lantern

Egg Pendant Lamp

Spring Table Runner

Flower Brooch

Shabby Chic Hooks

Tiled Mirror

Beaded Chandelier

Like this article? Pin it!

Getting it Done at Dollar Tree