9 Items To Splurge On, Settle For or Skip at Dollar Tree
Written by
Cynthia Measom
Edited by
Rebekah Evans
Commitment to Our Readers
GOBankingRates' editorial team is committed to bringing you unbiased reviews and information. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and services - our reviews and ratings are not influenced by advertisers. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and our products and services review methodology.
20 Years
Helping You Live Richer
Reviewed
by Experts
Trusted by
Millions of Readers
Dollar Tree is known for its ultra-cheap prices on a wide variety of items, with the majority of its stock priced at $1.25. However, the quality can vary depending on what you’re buying.
If you know what to splurge on, you can save a ton. However, you also need to know what items you should only buy in a pinch and what you should completely avoid.
Party Supplies: Splurge
Brendon McCullough, founder and managing director of Dealhack, said that DollarTree is a goldmine for party supplies.
“From balloons to tableware, you can find high-quality items that look just as good as more expensive options,” he said. “The variety and affordability make it easy to throw a fantastic party without breaking the bank.”
It’s also worth noting that Dollar Tree sells mylar balloons for only $1.50, which the store associate will fill with helium.
Cleaning Supplies: Splurge
If you’ve shopped for cleaning supplies at your grocery store or big-box retailer, you know they are expensive. That’s why McCullough recommended splurging on cleaning supplies at Dollar Tree, including bleach, dish soap and sponges. He claims you can find some excellent buys.
“The performance is comparable to name brands, and the cost savings are significant,” he said. “Stocking up on these essentials can stretch your budget further.”
Seasonal Decorations: Splurge
Even if you splurge on holiday decor at Dollar Tree, you’ll still have plenty of room for gifts and food in your budget.
“For seasonal decorations, Dollar Tree offers an impressive selection,” McCullough said. “Whether it’s Halloween, Christmas or Easter, you can find stylish and festive decorations that rival those in more expensive stores. These items are perfect for adding holiday cheer without a hefty price tag.”
Kitchen Utensils: Settle On
McCullough recommended settling on basic kitchen utensils, like spatulas, measuring cups and peelers, at Dollar Tree when you need to.
“While they may not have the longevity of higher-end brands, they are functional and a great bargain for everyday use or occasional cooking,” he said.
Office Supplies: Settle On
Dollar Tree might not be your first choice for office supplies, but you can find the basics if you need something in a pinch.
“Dollar Tree offers a wide range of office supplies, including pens, notepads, and folders,” McCullough said. “These items are perfect for stocking up your home office or for kids’ school needs. They provide decent quality at a fraction of the cost.”
Craft Supplies: Settle On
When it comes to craft supplies, Dollar Tree won’t have the wide variety or top quality that Michael’s or Hobby Lobby offers, but you should be able to find the basics.
“For crafting enthusiasts, Dollar Tree has a variety of supplies that are perfect for DIY projects,” suggested McCullough. “Items like glue sticks, markers, and foam sheets are good quality for the price, making them ideal for budget-friendly crafting.”
Electronics: Skip
McCullough said that it’s best to skip Dollar Tree when it comes to electronics.
“Items like headphones, chargers and batteries often lack durability and can fail quickly,” he recommended. “Investing in higher-quality electronics from reputable brands is a better choice for reliability and safety.”
Vitamins and Supplements: Skip
Although you might think buying vitamins or supplements from Dollar Tree is a great way to save, McCullough said they should generally be avoided.
“The quality and efficacy of these products can be questionable, and it’s crucial to invest in reputable brands to ensure safety and effectiveness,” he explained.
Toys: Skip
“While tempting, toys at Dollar Tree often lack durability and can break easily,” McCullough said. “For children’s safety and long-term value, it’s better to spend a bit more on higher-quality toys from trusted brands.”
More From GOBankingRates
