4 Dollar Tree Shopping Mistakes That Cost You
Written by
Emily Fowler
Edited by
Cory Dudak
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Dollar Tree offers plenty of tempting deals, but some bargains might not deliver the value they promise. Knowing where to be selective helps stretch budgets further.
While it’s a great place for greeting cards, party supplies and seasonal decor, avoiding these common shopping mistakes ensures better choices and smarter spending overall.
Not Comparing Price Per Unit
A $1.25 sticker might look like a bargain, but the amount being paid per ounce, sheet or count can be much higher than at regular stores. A single 7.5 oz bottle of hand soap for $1.25 works out to 16.7 cents per ounce. At BJ’s Wholesale, for instance, two 64 oz bottles for $8.29 is only 6.5 cents per ounce — a huge difference.
Without checking unit prices, it’s easy to end up spending more for less, especially on pantry basics, paper goods and cleaning products.
Buying Batteries Without Checking the Label
In a recent YouTube video, Jeff Rossen explained that “super heavy duty” is just code for carbon zinc — these are low-drain batteries meant for devices like clocks or remotes. They run out fast, don’t hold a charge well, and can leak if misused.
While Dollar Tree also sells alkaline batteries for $3, many grab the cheaper option without realizing the risk. Mixing carbon zinc with alkaline can be dangerous and may damage electronics, so what looks like a deal often leads to ruined devices and more money spent replacing dead or leaking batteries.
Buying in Bulk Without Considering Quality or Storage
Buying in bulk can seem like a smart move, but at Dollar Tree, bulk often means multiple small packages bundled together rather than larger, better-quality items. These bundles may not have the same durability or freshness as true bulk products from warehouse stores.
Plus, without proper storage space or usage plans, bulk buys risk going to waste. It pays to think beyond quantity and factor in product quality, shelf life and storage before stocking up.
Assuming All Cleaning Products Are Safe
A year-long Campaign for Healthier Solutions study found nearly 50 cleaning and personal care products sold at dollar stores, including Dollar Tree, contained toxic chemicals, according to according to Consumer Affairs. In addition, several hand sanitizers sold under Dollar Tree’s Assured brand were previously recalled by the FDA for containing toxic methanol, which can cause serious health harm if absorbed through the skin or ingested.
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