14 Items You Should Never Buy at Dollar Tree

Just because everything is a dollar at Dollar Tree doesn’t mean it’s a good buy. Here’s a list of 14 items you should never buy at Dollar Tree.

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There are a lot of great items to buy at Dollar Tree, but there are some that aren’t worth spending a dollar on. Just because everything is a dollar doesn’t mean it’s a smart purchase.

I have been a Dollar Tree shopper for several years and I’ve learned a few shopping tips over time. And since I’m all about saving money, I’ve figured out the Dollar Tree items that aren’t worth buying.

Luckily for you, I’m sharing some of those items in this post so you don’t have to waste your time and/or money!

Keep reading for a list of items you should never buy at Dollar Tree.

Items You Should Never Buy at Dollar Tree

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1. Playdough/modeling clay

Unless you can find a brand name, then avoid buying playdough or modeling clay from Dollar Tree. The quality is terrible and they both dry out really fast. It’s better to purchase these items elsewhere and spend a little bit more money on them.

2. Crayons

Just like with playdough and modeling clay, crayons should be avoided unless they are brand name. They are poorly made and break easily and they don’t color very well.

3. Batteries

Batteries are an “iffy” purchase when it comes to Dollar Tree. Some people say they work fine and last just as long as the more expensive brands. But others are saying just the opposite. I’ve never had much luck in Dollar Tree batteries lasting a long time. If you need batteries for something for just a few days, then go for it. After all, they’re only a dollar!

4. Toilet paper/paper towels

Unless there’s another toilet paper crisis, then you should skip buying paper products from Dollar Tree. These items are better purchased at big box stores because you can get them for half the price.

5. Scented candles and wax melts

I love scented candles and wax melts, but I also love for them to have a somewhat strong scent. Candles in Dollar Tree can be deceiving because they smell so good in the store. However, once you get them home, you can barely smell them when burning.

Plain candles are great to buy if you want to make your own scented candles. Just melt the wax down, add in some essential oils or fragrance oils, and pour them into containers with a new wick.

6. Canned goods

Typically canned goods are cheaper at grocery stores. However, if you come across brand-name items, such as soup, you may be able to use a coupon to get it even cheaper. Brand name pantry foods come in smaller packaging, so they’re not quite the deal you think they are. (TIP: Make sure to check expiration dates!!) Check your store’s coupon terms before using coupons there.

7. Clothes hangers

Plastic clothes hangers are actually cheaper at Walmart and the velvet hangers are cheaper on Amazon. They’re aren’t as many hangers in Dollar Tree packages, causing them to cost more per hanger.

8. Bandages

Bandages found at Dollar Tree usually lose their stickiness pretty quickly, which can cause you to go through an entire box in a day.

9. Electronics

Electronics are definitely items you should never buy at Dollar Tree. You are getting what you pay for in this category. They break soon after purchasing so don’t expect any long-term quality. Once again, just because everything is a dollar doesn’t mean every purchase is a good deal.

10. Medications

Honestly, this category is entirely up to you. I personally do not trust any supplements or drugs made specifically for this market. But again, that’s just my opinion.

11. Plastic wrap & aluminum foil

Plastic wrap and aluminum foil aren’t made of the best quality for Dollar Tree stores. These items are made to sell cheaply. The rolls are shorter, meaning you’re wasting money because you have to buy more rolls more often. Purchase these items elsewhere to save.

12. School supplies

Most of the school supplies found at Dollar Tree stores are low quality. It’s best to wait for Walmart’s back-to-school sale and then stock up. This is the best way to get the cheapest deals on better quality school supplies.

13. Pet food

First of all, Dollar Tree sells smaller bags of food, which ends up costing you more per ounce than bigger bags. Second, even experts warn against the lack of standards of pet food at dollar stores. Keep your animals safe and purchase their food from brands and stores you trust.

14. Brand name cleaning products

Brand name cleaning products are packaged in smaller quantities at Dollar Tree. This is actually causing you to spend more per ounce. However, Totally Awesome is one of the best cleaning products for cleaning, degreasing, and disinfecting. Just do the math and decide what you need and what’s best for your budget when purchasing brand-name cleaning products from Dollar Tree.

What are some items you never buy at Dollar Tree and why?

Looking for more money-saving hacks? I recommend reading these next:
16 Easy Shopping Hacks to Help You Save Money on Groceries
35 Topnotch Frugal Living Tips
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