The Lure of the Dollar Store

The lure of the dollar store is hard to resist with all those bargains calling out to you. No need to resist, this is one guilty pleasure you can absolutely indulge. There are many terrific deals found in dollar stores. In fact, they should be a part of your weekly shopping.

The following are the Top Dollar Store Deals with some helpful hints on what to avoid.

1. Gift Bags, Ribbon, Tissue Paper, Cards

Dollar Stores have everything you need to wrap up the prettiest package for any occasion at a fraction of the cost of Hallmark or even Walmart.

Avoid: Transparent tape - it is often a factory second and won't work properly.

2. Children's Craft Supplies

Look here for construction paper, stickers, coloring books, pipe cleaners and glue.

Avoid: Crayons, markers, paint - they are of lower quality than the name brands.

3. Dishes

If you need a few little fruit nappies or some pretty glass plates, the Dollar Store has a better selection than Sears.

Avoid: Ceramic plates or bowls - turn them over first to make sure they are intended for food use. Some are simply decorative.

4. Birthday Party Supplies

Almost everything you need for a birthday party can be found at the dollar store. You can often find popular characters (Spiderman, Whinnie the Pooh, etc) on napkins and plates. Make sure to pick up some plastic cutlery and disposable cups in the same color hues. You can also get prizes, birthday hats and games.

Avoid: Candy which is often imported or not fresh and birthday candles which tend to burn very quickly.

5. Sunglasses

Why would you pay $20 a pair just to lose them? The Dollar Store has UV rated sunglasses for the whole family at a dollar a pair. Buy a few pair for each family member.

Avoid: Frames with rhinestones which will likely fall off.

6. Outdoor Toys

Pails and shovels, water guns, inflatable toys and bubbles are all sure to bring huge grins from young kids. The Dollar Store has terrific selections of these toys.

Avoid: Anything painted - there is always the worry that some lead contaminated toys from China may have found their way to the Dollar Stores.

7. Dog Supplies

Leashes, collars, chew toys can all be found at unbelievable prices.

Avoid: Dog food - name brand food maybe manufacturing rejects and no-name food is too risky to give your dog.

8. Home Decorating

For a student decorating the dorm room or anyone who is looking for a cheap home makeover, you can find deal after deal at the Dollar Store. Welcome mats, area rugs, curtains, throw pillows can be found for next to nothing.

Avoid: Candles - they burn too fast and may not be safe

9. Calculators

Great for doing the budget. Pick yourself up a big button calculator or a pocket sized one for the same low price.

Avoid: Novelty calculators, such as pens or key chains. They seldom work for more than a couple of days.

10. Reading Glasses

At a dollar a pair you can keep a spare pair in the kitchen, car or a purse for those days when you forgot where you put your prescription glasses.

Avoid: Using them in place of getting prescription glasses.

There are even more bargains that can be added to this list, as well as more things to shy away from. The savvy buyer shops at the Dollar Store with an open mind but a wary eye.