Josh Elledge - Chief Executive Angel
The local dollar store holds some fun finds and great buys”¦ but some things are not the bargain they may seem at first look. Because we're all about bargains, and getting your money's worth, we've taken a look at some items that are a good bet ““ and some items you shouldn't even spend a dollar on. Don't get caught up in the mindset that “it's only a dollar.”
What to snag:
Greeting Cards ““ You'll save a bundle over the normal cost of these paper affection-conveyers. At $1 ““ or sometimes even 2 for $1 ““ you can get 4 or 8 cards for the price of just one elsewhere.
Party/Events Supplies ““ The dollar store beats just about any other source for necessities such as tableware, table covers, and even plastic serving pieces. Most stores have multiple colors, and even patterns. To make your event even easier, most dollar stores carry quality, clear plastic serving pieces, such as bowls, platters, tongs, and more.
Mylar balloons ““ Where else can you get Mylar helium-filled balloons for only $1 each? Best of all, you can buy enough to make a colorful balloon bunch, or just a single balloon to brighten someone's day.
Party Favors ““ The selection at your local dollar store will vary, but most have packages that contain multiple little pieces of plastic fun to thrill the kiddos. Just look them over carefully for quality and safety before buying.
Hair Needs ““ Pick up hair clips, barrettes, brushes, headbands, and sometimes even quality shampoo, for 1/3-1/2 of the normal price elsewhere.
Gift Bags, Wraps and Tissues ““ The prices at other stores for some colored paper and a pretty bow can add up to more than the gift they conceal! Stick to the dollar store for these items.
Small Pool Toys and Floats ““ Most of the time, pool stuff doesn't last more than one season anyway, so why pay too much?
Kitchen utensils ““ Dollar stores will often have name-brand kitchen items, and even non-name brand that stand up to use and abuse. If you're choosy about your buys, you're not likely to notice a difference between your dollar store ones and any more expensive ones. You may even find you like them better!
Body Wash ““ Especially when there are no good sales and coupons, you can get some nice body washes, with a decent amount of ounces.
Shower Curtain Liners ““ If washing your inner shower liner is frustrating to you, you can simply buy a fresh one whenever needed.
Socks ““ This is especially true for children's socks. They outgrow them, and lose them various places so fast, you can get some good replacements without spending a lot. They often have fun patterns and seasonal socks, too.
Spices ““ Unless you need, or want, gourmet spices, these bottles will give you the basics you need at a fraction of the cost.
Craft Supplies ““ You'll need to know your prices, as some things sell for less than $1 elsewhere, but there are some good bargains to be had at some dollar stores.
What to shun:
Pet Supplies and Treats ““ Dollar stores usually get their items from China, which can put your furry friends at risk. Supplies from China have been reported to have a higher risk of contamination and misleading labels.
Health Care Items ““ Unless you can find name brands, and use coupons, many of these items (not including those mentioned above) are actually more expensive at a dollar store than using coupons and watching sales.
School Supplies ““ These are usually lower quality, and you can score quality supplies less expensively during the back to school time (starting in July). Stock up during fantastic sales to avoid paying more later ““ even if it's “only a dollar”.
Food Items ““ Not because the quality isn't fine, but because only a small handful are a good bargain. Many items are actually less than $1 each elsewhere. Know your prices before buying.
Electric cords and batteries ““ Unless you can find a name brand, they are not made with the quality you want to keep your electronics safe while running.
Tools ““ Some are okay, but many are flimsy and poorly made, causing your efforts to use them to be frustrating.
Some Toys ““ No one expects high quality, but being careful of safety hazards and being aware of materials used is advised. Some toys can be a fun buy (understanding they won't last), but others can be potentially dangerous.
Dish Washing Liquid ““ Unless you're in a bind, and can't stop elsewhere, you can usually get good, name brand dish liquid for less than $1 on sale, and/or with coupons.
