6 Dollar Tree Finds That Could Cost You More in the Long Run
Written by
Jordan Rosenfeld
Edited by
Molly Sullivan
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Dollar Tree stores can be great in a pinch for items you need quickly and at a price that will fit almost any budget. However, these stores are also known for cutting corners on many products, making them with cheaper materials, as well as smaller and less durable.
Here are some Dollar Tree finds that could cost you more in the long run when you ultimately have to replace them, deal with potential damage and more.
Charging Cords or Power Strips
Cheap charging cables or power strips on their own may not be a huge waste of money if they don’t last long, but a faulty or incompatible one could damage your devices, costing you hundreds or even thousands of dollars in replacing or fixing technology. This is one of those items it’s better to buy the quality version of for a bit more money.
Kitchen Utensils and Cookware
While some brand name kitchenware can be overpriced, it’s often got the durability and quality to back it up. At Dollar Tree, you may find thin metal spatulas, knives or other cookware aren’t built to last, wearing out or breaking quickly. Higher-quality basics can last years and are worth paying a slightly steeper price.
Batteries
Dollar Tree batteries may be great in a pinch if you’ve run out and need to charge up a device quickly, but you might end up spending more money in the long run. Consumer experts suggest Dollar Tree batteries might last only half as long as name-brand versions. Worse, if they’re shoddily made, they could leak and ruin electronics.
Small Plastic Toys
If you’re just looking for some quick party favors for a kid’s party or something to tide your toddler over, you won’t regret spending a couple dollars on a cheap toy. But if you’re buying anything with the goal of longevity you’ll likely be disappointed. Worse, some plastic toys, if they break, can pose safety hazards for children, and send you back to the toy store, where you might end up overspending to make up for the disappointment.
Pet Supplies
Pet owners who see their fur babies as family can be prone to overspend on products and supplies to make their furry darlings happy. However, be wise about the kinds of toys and treats you buy for dogs and cats, in particular, who might chew or ingest plastic parts. Reddit is rife with stories of Dollar Tree products that led to health complications — expensive veterinary bills — for their pets.
Canned or Packaged Foods
Anyone living on a very tight budget understandably looks to purchase essentials like grocery items cheaply. While Dollar Tree offers a variety of canned, packaged and frozen foods, be very careful when purchasing these items. Not only do they often come in smaller sizes than competitor’s products, but they may also be close to their expiration dates. You don’t want to have to foot a doctor’s bill from a can of food.
When it comes to Dollar Tree, use your best judgment and consider whether the immediate savings now are worth any unforeseen costs that could come with not investing in higher quality items.
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