8 Best Things to Always Buy at the Dollar Store
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8 Best Things to Always Buy at the Dollar Store
Paying $1 for a household item at the Dollar Tree or Dollar General might seem too good to be true—you get what you pay for, right?
Although there’s some validity to this statement, you don’t have to pay big bucks for certain things. Some items you can ALWAYS buy at the dollar store, especially if you’re looking for a real bargain or amazing discounts.
Here’s a look at 8 things you should always buy at the dollar store.
1. Movie candy
A few months ago I purchased candy at the movie theater for the first time in probably five years. We were late and didn’t have time for our usual Dollar Tree “pre-movie” run. I sent my husband to the concession stand, and honestly, I really didn’t know what to expect with regard to prices. To my horror, he paid nearly $5 for a half-filled box of skittles—never again!!
Of course, bringing your own candy to a movie theater is frowned upon—and yes, there’s a chance that you’ll get caught. But if you’re okay living a little “outside the law,” stopping at the dollar store and stocking up on candy is an excellent way to enjoy movie snacks without breaking the bank.
You can find every candy under the sun – M&Ms, Skittles, Starburst, Mike and Ike‘s, Goobers, and more. Basically anything the movie theater sells…but at a fraction of the cost.
2. Greeting cards
I only started purchasing greeting cards at the dollar store within the past couple of years, and when I think of how much I’ve spent on cards from Target and Walmart, I could slap myself.
The dollar store isn’t only the perfect place to buy greeting cards, but also gift wrapping and party supplies.
3. Socks
Socks are not cheap, especially if you buy from places like Target or department stores. You might pay $10 for only two or three pairs.
I was a little skeptical about buying socks at the dollar tree (I thought they would bust a hole in a matter of days). However, I was pleasantly surprised. Not only did the socks last just as long as the expensive ones, they were often more comfortable.
4. Kitchen supplies
The back wall or aisle of any dollar store is probably dedicated to kitchen supplies. This is an excellent place to go when you need to upgrade your utensils, or maybe you’re just starting out and need to fill your kitchen with the essentials.
No matter the situation, you can get mixing bowls, measuring cups, plates, glasses, mugs, and other little kitchen tools for just $1.
5. Picture frames
I’m always on the hunt for cheap picture frames, and usually go to TJ Maxx, Marshalls, or Ross. These retailers typically have great styles at low prices, but don’t sleep on dollar stores. They have a nice selection of picture frames too.
Granted, the selection can be hit or miss. But if you shop on the right day, you might find a gem or two.
6. Reading glasses
Most people wouldn’t dare purchase a pair of reading glasses from the dollar store. But after testing out a pair, I find that their prescriptions and quality of frames is comparable to what you’ll find at TJ Maxx or Kohls. But while other places might charge $10 for a pair, you can get them at the dollar store for only a buck.
7. Pregnancy tests
I used to silently joke and feel sorry for those who put their trust in a dollar store pregnancy test. But after doing some online research, I learned that many women received accurate results from their dollar store pregnancy tests. So I stand corrected.
A pregnancy test at the grocery store might set you back $10 to $15. Why spend this much when you can get the same results with a dollar pregnancy test?
As a word of caution, some pregnancy tests expire after two or three years, so make sure you check the expiration date on the box.
8. Medication
Before going to a drugstore and spending big bucks on medication, stop by the dollar store and check out their selection. You’ll find many generic selections of well-known brands, as well as brand names like Vicks, Airborne, Alka-Seltzer, and TheraFlu. Again, always check the expiration date before buying.
Final Word
The dollar store is a discount shopper’s paradise, and depending on where you live, your dollar store might have a frozen food section and a generous selection of canned goods. Shop here and you can significantly reduce your grocery bill.
Other things you should always buy at the dollar store:
- Cleaning products
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Storage containers
- Hair accessories
- Pens and notebooks
- Vases and decorative bowls
- Paper products
- Personal care items
- Sandwich bags
- Aluminum foil
What’s your favorite item to buy at the dollar store?