9 Surprisingly Useful Things You Can Still Buy for $1 or Less

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One dollar doesn’t go nearly as far as it used to.

According to online inflation data, $1 in December 2015 would need to be $1.37 in December 2025 to have the same buying power. Even so, there are still useful items you can buy for $1 or less. 

Also see why experts say more people are shopping at dollar stores.

Cotton Swabs

Cotton swabs are handy to keep in the bathroom for a variety of applications, including grooming needs. Walmart sells a 300-count carton of Equate cotton swabs for just $0.98.

Spaghetti 

Making a spaghetti dinner can help trim grocery costs, and keeping the ingredients on hand is smart. A 16-ounce package of Clover Valley pasta at Dollar General is just $1. The best part is that you can probably squeeze more than one meal out of a box. 

Canned Vegetables

Canned veggies are shelf-stable and make for a quick-and-easy side dish. Although prices vary by retailer, Walmart has different varieties, such as whole kernel corn and cut green beans, for $0.76 each. 

Paper Plates

Although you won’t want to use paper plates daily if you’re trying to save money, they’re useful for keeping cleanup to a minimum. Believe it or not, Dollar General has an 18-pack of Serv everyday paper plates for $1. For a family of four, that’s four meals that don’t require doing the dishes. 

Toothbrush

Dental professionals recommend replacing your toothbrush approximately every three months, so it makes sense to stock up. Dollar General sells Oral-B toothbrushes for $1 each.

Ibuprofen

Body aches, fever and arthritis are no joke, and ibuprofen can help. A 40-count bottle of Equate ibuprofen at Walmart is just $1.

Hot Hands Handwarmers

Whether you’re hiking, skiing, hunting or camping, Hot Hands handwarmers can help keep your hands toasty warm for less than $1 when you shop at Walmart. Open the package, shake the handwarmers, and place them in your pockets or gloves — no batteries required. 

Disposable Travel Body Sponges

People who prefer body sponges to washcloths will find a use for a two-pack of Equate disposable travel body sponges. These mesh poufs are priced at two for $1 at Walmart.

Baking Soda

Baking soda can be used for more than baking. It also can be used as a cleaner, stain remover and deodorizer. Walmart sells a 1-pound box of Great Value baking soda for $0.92.

Editor’s note: Pricing and availability may vary depending on location.

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