While there are certain things you absolutely shouldn’t buy at the dollar store, they’re full of deals that you should. While you still need to pay attention to things like unit price and size, these 34 things you should buy at the dollar store are almost always a great buy and an awesome deal.
34 Best Things to Buy At The Dollar Store
Party Supplies – Throwing a party? Swing by the dollar store for the supplies. You can typically find everything from streamers to balloons for a buck and cards are usually priced at 2 for $1.00.
Dishes – At most dollar stores you can buy single plates, bowls, and other dishes for $1.00 each. This means you can put together a complete service for 4 for only $16.00. Some of my favorite dishes are heavy-duty stoneware plates that I picked up at Dollar Tree for only $1.00 each. They’re awesome quality and I saved a ton over going with a more traditional set.
Kids’ Books – Most dollar stores have shelves upon shelves of kids' books. They’re priced right for filling up your kiddo’s bookshelf and they’re the same exact books you’d pay $5 or more elsewhere. Also, be on the lookout for coloring books at the dollar store too.
Brand Name Meds – Advil is a big one here. This could save you so much. These smaller bottles are great for in the car or traveling.
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School Supplies – You may be saying wait… this was on your What NOT to buy list so why is it on this one as well. Certain school supplies are a score at the dollar store. Posterboard, comp books, index cards, and the like. Avoid pens, pencils, etc as they are smaller packages and of less quality.
Holiday Décor – Dollar stores are fantastic for picking up holiday décor for cheap. I once saw an entire (and really pretty) glass Christmas village at Dollar Tree for only $10! You can find ornaments, wall décor, outdoor décor, wrapping paper, and more for really great prices!
Pool Toys – Most of the time these only last a summer anyway so keep your spending low and get them from Dollar Tree.
Candy – Headed to the movies? Maybe a quick trip to the dollar store for cheap snacks is worth it.
Cleaning Supplies – Unless you make your own cleaning supplies, cleaning supplies can be great finds at dollar stores. A lot of them sell the same brands that you already love, but for much less. To get the best deals, make sure that you combine their low prices with any coupons you might have or any cashback savings apps that you use.
Feminine Hygiene Products – Ladies? Pads are pads and tampons are tampons. If you can get them cheaper at the dollar store? Do it!
First Aid Products – One final thing that the dollar stores are GREAT for is basic first aid supplies for your first aid kits. Things like Band-Aids, gauze, rubbing alcohol, peroxide, and more are all dirt cheap and the quality is just as good as their more expensive counterparts. Be sure to stay away from meds though because they may be lower quality and/or already expired.
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Buy Q-Tips at the Dollar Store – You just can’t find a better deal on Q-tips anywhere else. When it comes to buying Q-tips, you can get a whole 300-count box for $1 at the dollar store.
Vases – A plain vase is a plain vase no matter where you get it from. Go cheap here.
Bobby Pins – I don’t know about you, but I lose every bobby pin I buy in a month! Don’t spend more than you have to; buy a whole package of bobby pins for $1 at the dollar store.
Bread – Some dollar store locations sell bread and when you can get it for cheap, you should stock up!
Kids Silverware and Dishes – Of course, you don’t want your toddler using your fine china, but buying kids' dishes can be just as pricey. Instead, grab some plates, cups, and silverware for $1.
Photo Frames – Some you can get from the dollar store are the exact same as major retailers and can save you a ton of money.
Toothpaste and Tooth Brushes – It’s not every day you find dollar store items that are name brand, but occasionally you find the secret gem. Name brand toothpaste like Colgate can be found for the best deal at the dollar store.
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Scotch Tape – Scotch tape is one of the best brands of tape that you can get. With that being said, you can score the best prices for Scotch tape at your local dollar store.
Envelopes – Same envelopes as Walmart or Target for a lower cost.
Shaving Cream – If you like using shaving cream to teach your kids lessons or enjoy fun crafts, you can get a whole can of foamy shaving cream for just a dollar at the dollar store.
Craft Supplies – You don’t have to spend an arm and a leg finding things for your kids to do this summer. The dollar store is full of inexpensive gifts, cool crafts, and supplies for any endeavor. Spend less being crafty when you shop at the dollar store.
Cookie Sheets – using these cheap cookie sheets for projects saves a ton.
Hula Hoops – Perfect for single summer use and low cost.
Greeting Cards – The Dollar Store has pretty much the same cards as a regular big-box retainer just a smaller selection. They are also just a buck so better to get these at a dollar store.
Pregnancy Tests – I know, skeptical right? Even if you spend the dollar for a trial test you save a lot of money.
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Picnic supplies – most picnics end up with you tossing everything in the trash. Use dollar store paper plates and utensils to make it easy and less costly.
Coffee – Smaller containers but still brands you love! Great for traveling.
Coffee filters – some filter packages are bigger than major retailers for cheap.
Flashlights – While not the best of the best, in case of emergencies they will work for you.
Baking Pans – If you are headed to a potluck and want to be able to leave what you brought without worrying about getting your dish back, use disposable pans from the dollar store.
Reuseable shopping bags – Stores sell them to you at the checkout for $3-5 EACH! Get them from the dollar store and hold on to them for everyday use.
Socks – Funky sock day doesn't have to cost an arm and a leg.
So there you have it, our top things to buy at the dollar store. What do you think? Anything we missed? Let me know in the comments below and I’ll be sure to add it to our list. Happy shopping!
There are many things I buy for less at the dollar stores and the quality is great! Thank goodness for the dollar stores!