Never underestimate how great an experience shopping in a dollar store can be. With the right amount of searching you can find items that are totally worth a buck. So ditch the doubt! We’ve scoured the aisles and found 19 things that are actually real steals. Ready to become a dollar-store pro?
1. Greeting Cards
For real, why shell out a ton of money for something that a person can read once and then either throw out or stash in a drawer? Unless they want a greeting card that actually sings, just say, “It’s the thought that counts.”
2. Spice Products
Well, this is a shocker. Who knew you could “spice up” your bland meal for a dollar? Time to fill up your kitchen rack with top-rated spices priced at less than $2 each. Just check the expiration date, and if it’s no time soon, then you’re good to go.
3. Party Needs
Sometimes, celebrations aren’t worth breaking the bank. Balloons, party hats, plastic plates and utensils don’t need to be too pricey, especially if you’re only going to use them once. If you want to keep your wallet on a diet, better opt for party needs that are less than a dollar.
4. Gift Bags and Wrappers
Aside from party needs, you will also find gift bags and wrapping paper for cheap. They may not be the same thickness as the name brands, but hey, you don’t need to pay more for it since it’s going to end up in the trash anyway.
5. Scrub Buddies Sponges
Introducing the Scrub Daddy dupe under $1: Scrub Buddies! Their sponges have the same foam that gets firm under cold water for a tough scrub, or soft under warm water for a light clean. You’ll get the same spotless kitchen without the splurge.
6. Glassware
Water goblets, champagne flutes, or even simple wine glasses and shot glasses for a fraction of the price. You won’t even care if they actually break, and you don’t need to buy a set, especially if it’s used on occasion, which for some may be all the time.
7. Plastic Food Containers
It’s better to buy quality food containers at a dollar store than disposable ones, which can cost more than $5 at the grocery store. Plastic food containers are actually amazing dollar store deals. Just be mindful that cheap plastics are still everywhere, so it’s best to pay attention when buying.
8. Ajax with Bleach
It scrubs stubborn grime and will surely wipe the grimness off your face too. It also makes things whiter and brighter because of the bleach, plus it’s a germ killer! Great for a deep clean.
9. Dental Products
Not only can you make your countertops whiter and brighter, but also your precious teeth! Your pearly whites don’t need to come with a hefty price when dollar stores are stocked with good deals on toothbrushes, toothpaste, and packs of floss. Get ready to smile for two reasons: clean teeth and deals.
10. Hair Accessories
A pack of hair ties or bobby pins, and then the next day, poof! All gone. It has always been the drill. Check the dollar store for all things hair before going to an even pricier beauty aisle. It’s actually worth it.
11. Travel-size Items
Packing up for a trip can be a hassle, fitting everything in your bag, plus those airline liquid rules that you need to follow or else? You’ll be the one to use those on-the-go items like small bottles of shampoo and conditioner anyway, so it’s better to save your travel budget and your luggage space.
12. BPure Lavender and Aloe Super Infused Pads
Just the thought of having your period for a week is scary enough; spending a lot on period pads actually makes it worse! But guess what? You can have a budget-friendly upgrade with these pads. They soothe and absorb well during heavier days. Comfort and protection without an empty wallet.
13. Pregnancy Tests
You’ll be wondering why there’s a delay in your period. Bet you didn’t catch that one! Aside from getting pads, you might want to make sure nothing’s brewing down there. Thankfully, dollar stores offer pregnancy tests that are 99% effective and priced around 99 cents.
14. Reading Glasses
Stop squinting at the tiny print or your screen and head to your dollar store for your reading glasses! Not just flimsy throwaways, but actual lifesavers for quick everyday use. A pair or two is enough for you to see things clearly, plus your wallet to be happy.
15. Crafter’s Products
Unleash your inner artist and create DIY decor for your home with craft tools that cost only a dollar (and a quarter). These products, like glues, felt sheets, googly eyes, and other crafty materials, can also be used to keep the kids busy and reveal their inner Picasso.
16. Activity Books
Little minds can learn more while you spend less., Keep them busy using good-quality coloring books, word searches, or simple workbooks for letters and numbers that are priced at $1. You can even do this every time they come home from school for less screen time.
17. Toys
A dollar store’s toy aisle is actually a goldmine when it comes to toys. You’ll find both indoor and outdoor toys, stacking toys, toy cars, dolls, stuffed animals, board games, and even character-themed items from brands like Disney and PBS. Kids will surely leave the store happy without you spending too much money.
18. Candies
Sometimes, when you go to the movies, you want to sneak in some goodies because cinema food is just expensive, let alone the tickets. Don’t worry, we’ve all been there. And no, we’re not the bad guys here. No one wants to enjoy watching a movie and then leave the cinema broke, right?
19. Seasonal Items
Holidays are celebrated once a year. And let’s be real here, we can celebrate them without spending a fortune. You can already find seasonal items, especially decor, at your local dollar store, and oftentimes they are better than the pricier ones.
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