Dollar stores are a great place to score budget-friendly finds, but not everything on the shelves is a steal. While some products offer decent value, others may end up costing you more in the long run due to poor quality, misleading sizes, or even safety concerns. If you’re trying to save money, here are 11 items you should think twice about before grabbing them at a dollar store.
1. Vitamins
When it comes to vitamins, quality matters. Unlike medications, vitamins and supplements are not regulated as strictly by the FDA, which means dollar store brands may not contain the amount of nutrients they claim. Past studies, including one by Consumer Reports, have found that labels on dollar store vitamins were often inaccurate. For something as important as your health, it’s best to stick with well-known brands from a trusted pharmacy or health store.
2. Laundry Detergent
The price may look appealing, but dollar store laundry detergents often come in much smaller bottles compared to what you’d find at Walmart or Target. For example, a 10-ounce bottle of detergent at a dollar store may cost $1.25, while a 31-ounce bottle of the same brand at Walmart is priced at $3.44. That means the Walmart option is actually cheaper per ounce. Plus, off-brand detergents may not clean your clothes as effectively.
3. Batteries
Batteries from dollar stores are usually made with carbon zinc instead of alkaline, meaning they won’t last nearly as long. Even if you find name-brand batteries, be cautious—many dollar stores sell surplus stock that is close to expiration. Reader’s Digest warns that these batteries often don’t hold a charge as well as fresher ones, so you may end up spending more money in the long run.
4. Canned Foods
While it may seem like canned goods are a safe bet, dollar store options can be a gamble. Some products may be close to their expiration date, and others might be available for a lower price at a grocery store, especially now that dollar store prices have increased to $1.25. Always compare prices and check expiration dates before buying canned goods at a dollar store.
5. Electronic Accessories
If you’re looking for a charging cable or headphones on the cheap, a dollar store might seem like an easy choice—but you’ll likely regret it. Many of these electronic accessories are poorly made, with thin wiring and low-quality insulation that can fray or break easily. Worse, some off-brand chargers can be a fire hazard. If you’re using an Apple device, the cheap cables may not even work properly. It’s safer to buy electronic accessories from a reputable brand.
6. Oven Mitts
Heat protection is something you don’t want to skimp on. Dollar store oven mitts are often made with thinner material, making it easier to burn your hands while cooking. Investing in a high-quality pair of oven mitts from a department store or home goods store is a much better (and safer) option.
7. Knives
Cooking with a dull knife can be dangerous, and unfortunately, dollar store knives are notorious for being low-quality. According to Bob Vila’s website, these knives often don’t hold a sharp edge, making it harder to cut properly and increasing the risk of injury. If you need a good knife, it’s worth spending a little extra for one that will last.
8. Cereal
Many dollar stores sell name-brand cereals, but the key is in the packaging. Instead of full-sized boxes, they often carry much smaller bags or boxes. When you break down the price per ounce, you’ll likely find that it’s cheaper to buy a larger box at Walmart or a grocery store. Always check the weight and do the math before assuming a dollar store cereal is a good deal.
9. Toilet Paper
Cheap toilet paper may seem like a way to cut costs, but in reality, it’s a waste of money. One-ply toilet paper found at dollar stores tends to be thin and less absorbent, meaning you’ll end up using more sheets per visit. Even if they carry name-brand toilet paper, it’s often in smaller rolls that cost more per square foot than bulk packs from grocery stores.
10. Notebooks and School Supplies
Back-to-school shopping at the dollar store might seem like a great idea, but notebooks and other school supplies aren’t always the best value. For example, a standard one-subject notebook costs $1.25 at the dollar store, while the same notebook can be found for $0.97 at Walmart. If you need supplies for school or work, you may get a better deal at a big-box retailer.
11. Sunscreen
Sunscreen is essential for protecting your skin, but buying it from a dollar store can be risky. Bob Vila’s website notes that some off-brand sunscreens have been mislabeled with incorrect SPF levels. Even when you find name-brand sunscreen, it’s often sold in tiny bottles that are overpriced. It’s best to buy sunscreen from a reputable store where you can ensure the product is effective and fresh.
Final Thoughts: Are Dollar Store Deals Always Worth It?
Dollar stores can be great for certain items, like party supplies, greeting cards, and seasonal decorations, but they’re not always the best place for everyday essentials. When it comes to products like vitamins, electronics, and cleaning supplies, quality and value matter. Before making a purchase, compare prices and consider the longevity of the product. Sometimes, spending a little more upfront can save you money (and headaches) in the long run.
Disclaimer – Our editorial team has thoroughly fact-checked this article to ensure its accuracy and eliminate any potential misinformation. We are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of integrity in our content.