The Dollar Tree can be a great place to buy if you’re looking to save money, especially when it comes to food. Occasionally, when I’m in need of supplies, I’ll make a quick stop at Dollar Tree. It’s one of my favorite go-to’s for, well, lots of things.
But, even when you’re on a budget, there are some things that you should never toss into your cart and some things that are downright dangerous to buy in a bargain.
It’s always important to do your research before you shop so you’re not duped into buying items that either lack quality or are simply not the best deal.
We have listed below the 10 items experts say you should avoid or never purchase at a dollar store.
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Utensils
When we set out to purchase forks, knives, and spoons, we are typically hoping to find something that lasts more than a few weeks, which is why you should focus on stores that sell quality utensils. The Dollar Tree is not one of those stores.
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Electronics
If you are looking for quality electronic devices and tools, you’re better off going to Target or Best Buy because they are likely to have a very limited life. The average lifespan of headphones, chargers, and speakers purchased from the chain store is under a month.
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Spray bottles
Sure, they do the trick if you only need them for five minutes but in most cases, these bottles break after a few spritzes.
Cleaning supplies with nozzles. Similar to the lifespan of the spray bottles, cleaning supply nozzles will break off in a matter of minutes.
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Batteries
Batteries have become crazy expensive over the years, which has given us reason to shop for deals on the much-needed item, but you are better off paying a high price for them if you want them to last long.
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Crayons
We all colored as kids, which is why you are most likely familiar with those super waxy crayons that didn’t get the job done. These are the crayons that are sold at the Dollar Tree and they aren’t worth your money. For real, true quality colors, stick with Crayola and purchase from a department store.
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Plastic kitchen tools
If you need them for one use, then go ahead and buy them at the Dollar Tree. If you’d like to get more life outta them, then get them elsewhere because they are most likely going to end up in the trash not long after they are purchased from the Dollar Tree.
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Canned food
When we walk into a Dollar Tree, we are usually under the assumption that everything is automatically cheaper than other stores. This isn’t always true, and canned goods are one item that is sometimes cheaper at grocery stores.
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Hair and skin care products
If you’re looking to better your beauty regimen, then it’s in your best interest to go to a store that specializes in them and offers the real deal. The products sold at the Dollar Tree are usually off-brand items that don’t contain the best ingredients and they most likely aren’t allergy tested which could result in a major breakout.
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Gum
When it comes to gum, the Dollar Tree uses packaging to trick you and it may not be as it seems from the outside, as the packages are much smaller than they appear. You are better off buying in bulk at Costco or Sam’s Club.
Everyone likes getting a bargain, but paying a small amount of money for a piece of junk isn’t a deal. Rather, good value comes from buying something that does what you want at a price you can afford. Because tech at the dollar store suffers from low quality, you’ll get a far superior product from spending slightly more.
Once you’re done shopping in-store, be sure to take advantage of the best online deal sites too.
Source: AWM
