Even dollar stores have been hit by inflation. Some stores, such as Dollar Tree, had to bump things up to $1.25 or more. But not everything at these discount stores is a bargain. Here are the 15 worst deals at dollar stores.
15. Batteries
Those $1.25 packs of batteries might seem like a bargain but look closer. They are often carbon-zinc batteries. Not only do they not last as long as alkaline batteries, but if they leak they can damage your devices. Read the labels, as you may find a warning reading: “Use for low-drain devices.” This means things such as remotes and clocks only.
14. Electrical Products and Charger Cords
Electrical products and charger cords have appealing prices at dollar stores but this is a case of “you get what you pay for” if there ever was one. Many of these products stop working shortly after you buy them or our duds right out of the box. Plus, some could risk damaging your electronics. Why chance it?
13. Beach Towels
A beach towel for $1.25 seems like an incredible bargain. But these flimsy towels leave something to be desired when it comes to drying you off. They aren’t made to last. Perhaps it’s a deal if you need it for a one-time use and plan to throw it away afterward. But still, isn’t that incredibly wasteful? No sustainability there.
12. Toilet Paper
Toilet paper is one product people can’t do without (remember the pandemic?). It’s expensive too, making prices at dollar stores appealing. But some of those off-brands have fewer fibers and feel rough. Or the deals are on 1-ply, so you have to use twice as much. Some are both. Bottom line: spend a little more and get better quality.
11. Windshield Washer Fluid
At many dollar stores, you can purchase windshield washer fluid for about half of what you’d find at stores like Walmart. But here’s where you need to read the label. These bargain fluids tell you they aren’t effective in the winter. The better brands promise they function well in sub-zero temperatures. Having your windshield washer system freeze could be costly.
10. Liquid Detergents
You’ll often find name-brand detergents at bargain prices at dollar stores. But not so fast. Look for an expiration date. Liquid detergents lose efficacy over time. If an expiration date isn’t listed, the discount could reflect an aging product. You’ll be wasting your money on a less effective product. Better to pay full price elsewhere.
9. Wrapping Paper
The prices of wrapping paper are inexpensive at dollar stores but there’s a reason for that – it’s usually of cheap quality. Typically, it rips easier, making you use more paper and tape to cover up the flaw. Look closer: the price per square foot for paper at dollar stores is often more expensive than you’ll find at big-box stores.
8. Jewelry
You’re probably already aware that you’re going to get cheap jewelry when you shop at a dollar store. Therefore, unless you’re buying the jewelry for use as a costume, you’ll want to do your shopping somewhere else. Jewelry from these stores is typically not very durable. Some may even discolor your skin or cause allergic reactions.
7. Toys and Costumes
Experts agree on not buying these items at dollar stores. Name-brand toys are rare. Most toys are made of cheap materials and break easily. Parts may break off that are hazardous. While you’re not spending much, your money could be spent on something better that lasts. Costumes degrade easily and have fabrics that may have you itching all night.
6. Plastic Food Storage
Plastic food storage containers seem like a bargain at dollar stores. However, experts warn of a hidden danger in many of these products. Many use cheap plastics that aren’t safe or BPA-free. When heat is applied in a microwave or dishwasher, they can release toxins. Those end up in your food and your body. Only purchase for storing non-food items.
5. Tools
Tool prices are very appealing at dollar stores. But your enthusiasm over your discount tool evaporates instantly when it breaks in the middle of using it. Tools from dollar stores are of low quality and aren’t likely to last long. If you need something for repeated uses over the long haul, spend a little more and buy something that lasts.
4. School Supplies
Dollar stores seem like the go-to place for finding deals on school supplies, especially when there are many items for $1.25 or less. However, many of these products are of poor quality. For example, mechanical pencils with lead that continually breaks or pens that stop writing. You’ll find both deals and better quality featuring name-brands at warehouse stores.
3. Beauty Products and Toiletries
Beauty products are expensive and finding good prices is always a challenge. Discount stores offer deals, but one expert advises avoiding anything that isn’t a name brand. Even then, you need to check expiration dates if they have them and skip them if they don’t. Skincare products, such as those with SPF, degrade over time.
Read More: 10 Items to NEVER Buy at Aldi
2. Perishable and Non-Perishable Food
Be very discerning about anything you put in your body. The freshness and quality of perishable and nonperishable foods can be questionable. Always check the expiration dates. Canned foods have a longer shelf life, but you need to check closely for dents that could create pinholes you may not be able to see. Botulism from canned foods is not uncommon.
Read More: 20 Creative Ways to Stretch a Dollar at the Grocery Store
1. Consumable Wellness Products
Ironically, a product you buy for wellness can be harmful to your health. Others may not be harmful but have lost their efficacy. One expert warns not to take any chances. This expert advises that any wellness product consumed internally, such as vitamins, should be purchased at a pharmacy, big-box store, or wholesale warehouse rather than discount stores.
Read More: 20 Grocery Store Rip-Offs You Should Never Buy
