Do cheap items translate to bad purchases? In some instances, yes. However, the same applies to expensive purchases. Buying an expensive and bad product just drains your wallet.
If you know where to look, Dollar Tree is a treasure trove of products that are just as good as their more expensive versions. But with so many options, which items are worth searching for? Based on research and experience, the items on this list are worth every penny.
1. Travel Essentials
Going on vacation and looking to stock up? Head to Dollar Tree for affordable travel pillows, water bottles, and TSA-approved containers for kids and adults alike. Whether you’re a habitual traveler or going on a one-off trip, you can find everything you need and stick to your budget.
2. Greeting Cards
Why pay $5 or more at local retailers when you can find quality gift cards with heartfelt messages for just $1? Most Dollar Trees have a greeting card section with various categories. If you’re concerned about someone seeing the $1 price, scratch it off. Most of the time, however, people only care about the message and intent.
3. Party Supplies
You can easily spend over $10 for a few party supplies. However, Dollar Tree has you covered with plates, cups, hats, balloons, and more for $1 each. With careful picking, you can end up supplying entire birthday parties without anyone questioning the quality of your supplies.
4. Cleaning Supplies
Cleaning supplies are essential for all homes. At Dollar Tree, you can snag mops, tissues, cleaning towels, and much more for close to $1. You no longer have to pay upwards of $10 for cleaning supplies.
5. Storage Containers
Whether it’s clothes or items you no longer use, storage containers help keep your home organized. Most storage bins start at $5 at large retailers, but you can pay just $1 at Dollar Tree. The material isn’t the most durable, but for $1, the quality is good enough. If you’re worried about your bins falling apart, you can stock up on a few extra ones and still save money.
6. Kitchen Gadgets
This will vary for everyone, but I’m betting you can find a cutting board or some cups that are suitable for your daily kitchen needs at Dollar Tree. Large retailers often charge upwards of $10 for single cups. While the quality will often be better at larger retailers, glass items still break the same no matter what you pay for them.
7. Seasonal Decor
If you celebrate holidays throughout the year, you most likely decorate your home every few months. You don’t have to break the bank each time. Vases or disposable bowls are great to buy at Dollar Tree on the cheap.
8. Craft Supplies
Whether it’s for your kids or you enjoy DIY projects, the Dollar Tree is packed with cheap and decent-quality supplies. For example, many large retailers charge $3 for basic craft sticks when you can get them for $1 at Dollar Tree. Your kids won’t be able to tell the difference. You might not either.
9. Books and Puzzles
We recommend you shop with enough time to observe Dollar Tree’s book and puzzle inventory. Though books and puzzles are limited at Dollar Tree, you may stumble upon a great read. However, purchasing a puzzle one of your kids may enjoy shouldn’t be too challenging.
10. Hair Care Products
It’s good to be picky about hair or skincare products. However, Dollar Tree has basic hair accessories that offer a good bang for their buck. For example, hair combs, rollers, and hair wraps are a steal there. However, you may want to avoid gels or creams due to the different materials being used. But if you review all the ingredients and understand what you’re buying, it’s hard to beat a $1 price tag.
11. Office Supplies
You can easily spend over $50 shopping at large retailers for office supplies. This is not the case at Dollar Tree. For example, organizational boards are priced at $5, but most items like calculators, notebooks, and pencil holders are $1. Why spend an arm and leg purchasing a few items at large retailers when you can get a dozen supplies for less than $15?
12. Wrapping Paper
Even if you purchase expensive wrapping paper that looks aesthetically pleasing, it will eventually be thrown out. This is why shopping at Dollar Tree for this disposable item is a no-brainer. Expect to pay $1 at Dollar Tree per roll of wrapping paper. Compare this to $4 at most large retailers. If you’re feeling creative with your presents, purchase several rolls. You’ll still save money and get similar quality shopping at Dollar Tree.
13. Candles and Fragrances
If you’re not picky with your scents, consider snagging a $1 candle at Dollar Tree. It’s not uncommon to spot candles from Dollar Tree at large retailers, so you may not sacrifice quality. Unless you’re fond of a particular scent, you can snag candles and candle holders on the cheap at Dollar Tree.
14. Gardening Tools
Whether it’s gloves, watering cans, or floral containers, Dollar Tree has you covered. Expect to pay five times more for similar materials at other stores. Despite the quality being slightly lower at Dollar Tree for some of these items, consider whether you need the highest quality equipment. Don’t let marketing trick you into buying something more expensive.
15. Snacks and Candy
Snacks and candy are a no-brainer if your local Dollar Tree carries them. If they don’t, consider trying out new snacks. Water, gum, and chocolate are clear winners at Dollar Tree. Your kids might not even be able to tell the difference.
16. Picture Frames
Retailers are notorious for charging high prices for picture frames. Expect to pay between $15 and $40 at the typical department stores. If you enjoy hanging pictures of your family or beautiful scenery in your home, you won’t break the bank buying at Dollar Tree.
17. Pet Supplies
Some pet supplies may be more challenging than others to find at Dollar Tree. But pet toys and bowls are a great buy here. For example, you can snag a laser for your cat or a squeaky toy for your dog.
18. First Aid Essentials
Stocking up on first-aid essentials is a smart move in case of a medical emergency. Dollar Tree offers bandages, medical tape, powders, creams, and more. Take the time to browse their selection and purchase what you need. If you have no first-aid essentials in your home, you can build your entire kit without spending much money.