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How Much Does It Cost to Open a Lush Store

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Here's a "head's up" on what to buy and which products to skip when shopping at the Dollar Store. Not everything is priced at one dollar.

You might head over to the dollar store to find a good deal, but you could end up paying more than you would at another store.

You might head over to the dollar store to find a good deal, but you could end up paying more than you would at another store.

Family Dollar or Dollar Tree: Are They the Same?

The "Big Daddy" of the the dollar discount stores chain is Dollar Tree, Inc. Only the Dollar Tree is a true dollar store. While Family Dollar Store boasts many items priced at $1 or less, it also has many more priced higher than $1 and even higher than $5.

All Dollar Stores are not equal. In fact, the dollar store can cost you more. You may have already found this out. The area I shop in boasts a large variety of dollar stores just waiting for your dollars. However, out of all of these stores available to the shopper—only one lives up to its name and that is the Dollar Tree.

Every single item is exactly one dollar including top brand named foods. The ambience is relaxing, spotless and friendly, while clerks bag your treasures with a smile.

If you aren't lucky enough to find a store like this, you'd best be careful and watch the prices and quality of the products. Since I've had plenty of experience buying the wrong stuff at so-called dollar stores, I thought I'd help you out by doing some careful research. Hopefully you'll learn from my mistakes.

Good Buys at the Dollar Store: What to Buy

  • Cleaning Supplies - Although some cleaners are slightly diluted, you'll like the price. Most Dollar Stores now carry name brands at 60-70% lower than supermarket prices.
  • Bath and Beauty items - Toothbrushes and floss (1$), Ivory bar soap(33 cents a bar), cotton balls (1$), lipstick (1$), Pregnancy Tests (1$), Shampoo (1$). Most bath and beauty items will save you some money, and many have the same ingredients as the more expensive brands.
  • Party and gift supplies - You'll love the savings on these items, which include cutlery paper plates and cups. And don't forget the inflated party balloons (1$ including the helium).
  • Seasonal and holiday items are a steal but you want to shop early as these favorites go very fast - especially Christmas, Valentines and Easter.
  • Containers for storage and baskets in a variety of sizes are 70% less than other stores.
  • I buy all my stickers for my young piano students at the Dollar Store as well as a good assortment of candles.
  • Snacks for lunches and such are name brands and can be anywhere from 35-50% cheaper than the super markets, especially the bags of candies. And this is the place to pick up goodies for a trip to your local movie theater. Talk about your savings (an arm and a leg, sometimes both legs at the theater.)
  • Cooking accessories like spatulas, ice cream scoops, flatware and wine glasses will give your wallet a smile too, including dinner plates, serving bowls and such.
  • I find all of my artificial flowers and trimmings at the Dollar Store, along with seeds for my vegetable garden in the spring and summer.
  • If you're tired of paying 4-5 dollars per greeting card, then you'll love the 1 dollar cards.

This list will give you a general idea of what to look for when you visit the Dollar Store.

But buyer beware. Not everything in the store is only 1 dollar as the name would indicate—some items are not even a good bargain.

Make sure you shop smart at dollar stores!

Make sure you shop smart at dollar stores!

Ripped Off at the Dollar Store

I am always up for saving a buck. It somehow gives me a feeling of superiority. I've done my time in the dollar store and its associate knock-offs, and learned through my own mistakes that not everything on the shelves is a bargain.

Read More From Toughnickel

Just this week I made my shopping rounds and the dollar store was my first stop. One of the bargains I purchased was a regular size can of butter beans for only 1 dollar. My second and final stop was at my regular food chain. To my utter dismay, I found the same can of butter beans for 69 cents.

It was time for me to get smart and do some quick research. I wanted to know if a trip to the dollar store was really a savings for me.

This is what I learned after doing my own research.

A Plan in Action

Now my plan was going to cost me some time and I realized that it would, going in. However, in the long run, it would prove to be cost-effective. Please take note—I am not cheap, but I'm frugal. And I get a "rush" when I come across a good bargain.

I researched prices and the size of items and food at a couple of the local discount stores. These stores include Walmart, Target, and the Dollar Store. I also included the local Kroeger Market. I kept a record of everything. It wasn't long before I found out which Dollar Store products were savings and which ones were not.

Things Not to Buy at The Dollar Store

  • Toys - they are cheaply made and can contain lead.
  • Vitamins
  • Batteries
  • Aspirin, Tylenol and other medications
  • Canned food
  • School Supplies
  • Electronics
  • Apparel
  • Dog Food
  • Toothpaste (fake Colgate)
  • Beauty Creams

Not all dollar stores are the same, and prices can vary depending on the area. The biggest chains other than the dollar store are Dollar Tree, Family Dollar, Dollar General and 99 Cents Only.

Do some comparison shopping on prices before buying items at the Dollar Store.

Do some comparison shopping on prices before buying items at the Dollar Store.

Recapping What We've Learned

Now you know which items may be best to buy at dollar store chains. You've also learned which products to avoid. Whether you're on a budget or you just like a good bargain, you will definitely save by shopping for the right items. The fun part is that you just never know what you will find. New products arrive every single day.

Just remember, the dollar store can cost you more. Print out the lists above and take them along with you when you shop. Also, be aware of impulse buying on products with a higher price point.

You'll find more dollar stores in areas where residents are considered low income. Dollar Tree also owns Family Dollar and has over 15,000 locations. This corporation took in $22.82 billion bucks last year and it's biggest competitor, Dollar General, has almost 16,000 locations and made more than $27.08 billion.

Warning:

Cheap costume jewelry — like the stuff found at dollar stores — has tested for high levels of lead, nickel and even asbestos in some dollar stores. Toxins can leach into the skin and cause long-term organ damage, particularly in children.

Recalls of costume jewelry from some dollar stores are quite common, since the lead levels found in cheap trinkets often surpass the amounts allowed under U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission guidelines.

© 2011 Audrey Hunt

Abby Slutsky from America on July 20, 2020:

Glad you enjoyed it.

Audrey Hunt (author) from Pahrump NV on July 20, 2020:

Hi Abby

Thanks for being here. I find that prices depend on which dollar store I go to. I'm always up for a bargain, that's for sure. Just read your article about protecting yourself from intruders. I like the "toilet plunger' weapon!

Abby Slutsky from America on July 19, 2020:

I have noticed a few items that I didn't think were worthwhile there too, but I do find plenty of good bargains. Thanks for sharing.

Audrey Hunt (author) from Pahrump NV on February 05, 2017:

Happymommy

Your comments are so helpful for others reading this article. Thanks for your help!

Amy from East Coast on October 10, 2016:

Another helpful Hub. I just spent about $20 on sponges and cleaners at Walmart. I was second guessing myself when I walked out of the store. I will be shopping for these items at the dollar store from now on. Great article. Simple, beautifully written, and to the point.

Audrey Hunt (author) from Pahrump NV on July 15, 2012:

Jason Marovich - I'm so glad to see you here Jason. When I wrote this hub, I was so tired of being "ripped-off" by false advertising. When I go to a "bargain" store, I expect to see more bargains - not "barely any" bargains. It's a waste of my time and uses extra gas.

I've found items that are a true bargain, so I now use the dollar store for certain items only. The poor quality items are mostly junk.

Thanks for your comments.

Jennifer Vasconcelos from Cyberspace and My Own World on July 14, 2012:

Great advice! I have done that before too - stings a bit when you realize the gotcha. As you mention some stuff is a true bargain and some items can even be dangerous or poor quality.

Audrey Hunt (author) from Pahrump NV on July 12, 2012:

ThoughtSandwiches - You wrote: There is a dollar store up here that says "Dollar Store: Everything in the Store over a dollar."

I found that very amusing...and honest. In most dollar stores you're lucky to find a handful of items priced at just one dollar. And you're not the only one who becomes so frustrated when shopping for bargains that do not exist, that you leave your shopping cart and fly out the door. I've done it too :)

Thank you for your support!

Jools Hogg from North-East UK on July 11, 2012:

Audrey, we have Pound (£) stores in the UK and they're the same as your stores in that some stuff really is a genuine bargain but you do need to be savvy about what is actually a bargain and what isn't. This is a very useful hub for the savvy shopper!

Audrey Hunt (author) from Pahrump NV on July 10, 2012:

rajan jolly - Thank you for sharing your information. I actually stopped shopping at the dollar store. I found that my local supermarket actually have better buys and quality. We don't have a 99 cent store close by. I love your hubs rajan and look forward to reading more of them. Thankyou!

talfonso from Tampa Bay, FL on July 10, 2012:

Gosh, I need all that advice to take when going to the dollar store! Thanks for taking the time to write this - will consider printing it out and taking it there!

Jen Smith from UK on July 10, 2012:

I have noticed the same thing here in the UK. I think the supermarkets are getting so competitive with prices that they can offer a much better price. I think the dollar or pound stores will have to catch up, they used to be the first stop for a bargain but now people are realising they aren't always.

moonlake from America on July 09, 2012:

Another thing I noticed at our Dollar General. I buy containers to put my quilt squares in, they were 4.50 at Dollar General where all the ladies were buying them. So I checked at Walmart they were 3.99 and better made. Voted Up on your hub.

Kelly Umphenour from St. Louis, MO on July 09, 2012:

You did a lot of leg work on this one! Thank you and it is great information. I always wondered which place has the best price for most things like Wal-Mart vs. the grocery store...I usually buy my cleaning stuff from Wally world because it's kind of a one stop shop with the super centers now.

I do have several Dollar stores in my area - the kids LOVE to go there! If I give them 5 bucks they think they are rich! haha!

Great hub!

Janine Huldie from New York, New York on July 09, 2012:

Very comprehnensive list of what to buy and what not to buy at the dollar store. I do agree I loe going there for greeting cards, because I used to spend so much money at Hallmark for cards and seriously they are cards that people read and than throw away. Also, pregnancy tests, I did purchase from the dollar store when we were trying to conceive, they are a good buy, but did feel that they weren't as good quality as the brand names, like First Response. Again thanks for putting this list together and am voting up and sharing too.

Ron Hawkster from United States of America on July 09, 2012:

Other things not to buy at dollar stores:

- used cars

- 2nd hand wives

- dead pets.

None of them works.

Rebecca Mealey from Northeastern Georgia, USA on July 09, 2012:

How cool that you found the beans cheaper at the market than Dollar Store. I will have to say though, I have had good luck with purchasing their school supplies. Thanks for sharing you r findings!

Victoria Lynn from Arkansas, USA on July 09, 2012:

I am frugal, too, and I have learned the same thing about dollar stores. They are more expensive on many of their "only a dollar" items. And some things are just cheap. I love their greeting cards. At our local Deals (owned by Dollar Store), they're only 50 cents, and I actually like them better than what I see at Wal-Mart for 3 or 4 dollars! I buy similar things as what you just mentioned. Interesting hub. Everybody should read this who is interested in saving money. I'm sharing it. Thanks!

CrisSp from Sky Is The Limit Adventure on July 09, 2012:

Definitely voting up! Our Dollar Store in Toronto is no longer a Dollar Store since recession hit us in 2009/2010. All items have been marked up by 25 cents except for some sweet snacks and candies. So, it's a $1.25 and some items are marked $2 plus of course the 13% tax. I guess, they should also change the store sign now. Having said that, I still love roaming around the Dollar Store only to pick up my 2 for a $ snicker bar chocolate. Awesome hub. Useful tips. Thanks for the sharing.

Mary Hyatt from Florida on July 09, 2012:

I absolutely agree with everything you say here in this Hub. You have to be careful. I enjoy our Dollar Store very much for the things you mention.

I voted this UP, and will share.

Joshua Zerbini from Pennsylvania on July 09, 2012:

Audrey,

I love the Dollar Store and this hub is right on! There are definitely some things to avoid while shopping there! Thanks for the share! :)

Jason F Marovich from Detroit on July 09, 2012:

I'm inherently frugal, but I like your list of 'don't buys at the dollar store'. There are some items that are complete junk, when you need them to be reliable. Excellent concept for a subject that's always on our minds - spending less money.

ThoughtSandwiches from Reno, Nevada on July 09, 2012:

Audrey,

This is a very disciplined approach to shopping. I must confess to a complete lack of order and disarray in y shopping excursions. (I've actually been known to abandon my basket mid-aisle and exit the store when I decide I'd rather to the fast food across the parking lot).

I am fully noting what to/and not to do at the local dollar store.

Thanks,

Thomas

PS...There is a dollar store up here that says "Dollar Store: Everything in the Store over a dollar."

Rajan Singh Jolly from From Mumbai, presently in Jalandhar, INDIA. on June 19, 2012:

Audrey, I agree many items should be avoided at the dollar store. for one everything is not priced at 1$ and for another, some of the things are inferior in quality.

While I was at LA I used to frequent the 99c store. I believe they have better variety and everything is at under a $.

You have some work making out a fine list so I'm sharing this hub for others to benefit from.

Voted up & useful.

Liz Rayen from California on January 17, 2012:

Good Advice. I for the most part stay away from the Dollar stores. :)

Tammy from North Carolina on January 04, 2012:

This is great advice. I would not buy the food either. It has probably been there a long time and shuffled from place to place. Good reading!

mljdgulley354 on December 28, 2011:

Great hub. I found out the same thing. I was excited to find an actual dollar store. There were other ones that weren't dollar stores and they were more expensive than walmart,kmart or target.

Linda Bilyeu from Orlando, FL on December 10, 2011:

The Dollar Store serves it's purpose for some items but not enough. I tried to suggest more items to buy from there but you have the list covered:) Voted UP!

Shasta Matova from USA on December 10, 2011:

This is a very useful hub. Voted up. That happened to me - I thought I was getting such a great bargain only to find that I had been ripped off. It does pay to know the price of things.

Audrey Hunt (author) from Pahrump NV on December 10, 2011:

Peg - Hahahaha! Yes, ma'm...I sure do remember the 5 and 10 stores. And some of them even featured a lunch counter which I visited when I had some spare change. Seems like a lifetime ago. You gave me a welcomed laugh, Peg, my friend! Thanks.

Peg Cole from North Dallas, Texas on November 26, 2011:

I love shopping at the Dollar Store and you are absolutely right about watching the values. At our Dollar General, bread is higher and so is milk, but the TP and cleaning products are a good deal. Their greeting cards are a steal at 2 for a dollar and some are really beautiful cards. At Dollar Tree I love to find spices and wrapping paper and as you noted, the serving dishes and paper items like foil and baggies are good deals.

What a great idea for a hub. Good one! PS. Do you remember when it was called the Five and Dime?

Audrey Hunt (author) from Pahrump NV on November 12, 2011:

Wow! Billrrr, thanks for the history lesson on Eric Esch.

I am in the process of writing a hub on the Butterbean (just for you:) They are one of my favorite beans.

So, keep an eye "peeled" for my next hub, because your name will be mentioned in it. See what you have done?

Thanks for the comment and for the great idea for my next hub! I am laughing and delighted.

vocalcoach~

Bill Russo from Cape Cod on November 05, 2011:

The only Butterbean I ever heard of is a man named Eric Esch who fights under the Butterbean moniker. Butterbean is called the King of the Four Rounders and has appeared dozens of times on nationwide televised bouts. He has a cult following of many thousands.

I know they didn't can Eric, so what is in a can of Butterbeans? We do not have these in the Northeastern United States. I know we are a bit food challenged. So what am i missing?

Audrey Hunt (author) from Pahrump NV on September 09, 2011:

carcro - Well, I'm so glad to see you. Thanks for liking my hub and watch your money :)

Dee - You are absolutely right. The books are a great buy and I have found several to add to my library. Take care and many blessings to you.

Denise - Hi, my friend. I am once again, joining the 30 hubs in 30 days challenge. I hope to make it this time. In any case, you are the wonderful person who inspired me to do this the first time.

Just want to thank you for that and thanks for commenting here. :)

Denise Handlon from North Carolina on July 31, 2011:

Good points, Audrey. I also compare shopping between the 'value stores'. I love stationary, so I go for that many times. Interesting hub.

Dee aka Nonna on July 25, 2011:

Oh, I totally agree with you. I too learned a valuable lesson. My favorite is Dollar Tree or simular where every thing is $1.00. I agree with you list and for me the only thing I will add is books. Paying $1 for a hardback book is great. You will not find the NYtimes bestsellers but I have found some wonderful gems that I've enjoyed very, very much. Voted up and useful. People should print them one out and use as a guide.

Paul Cronin from Winnipeg on July 21, 2011:

Bang on, you are so right! Excellent tips, thanks for the info.

Audrey Hunt (author) from Pahrump NV on July 20, 2011:

dallas - You don't waste anytime and certainly make the most of every minute. And, good luck on your book!

pamela - Gift bags and party supplies are great items to buy at the dollar store. When I shop there, I know exactly what I'm going for and stick to that. Thanks.

TheListlady - I'm so glad you mentioned light bulbs. I forgot about those. And yes, how can it be called the dollar store when the majority of goods are way more than 1 dollar? Thank you for your input. :)

CountryCityWoman - I wonder - if the dollar store ever did charge just 1 dollar for everything in the store? :)

If so, I missed it along the way. Thanks for visiting.

Audrey Hunt (author) from Pahrump NV on July 20, 2011:

slappywalker - Thanks for the good info on the spices at the dollar store. Sticking to a list of items when shopping instead of browsing around really saves money.

Enjoy your day (and shopping). :)

hotwebideas - Very glad you stopped by. And...I think your hubs on web info are great! Thanks.

WillStar - Absolutely! I seem to buy less and less at the dollar store. But those .99 cent greeting cards are tempting, altho I recently discovered greeting cards at my supermarket for .99 too. :)

timorous - You are right on the money! Being selective and using the dollar store for specific items only is the key to smart shopping and safety. Thanks, my friend!

Mentalist acer - Thanks for the great info about baggies at the dollar store. I'm on my way to pick some up. :)

Dahoglund - I recently started doing "thin" when I buy TP. Big savings there. Thanks!

Audrey Hunt (author) from Pahrump NV on July 19, 2011:

Sylvia - I haven't been to the .95 + store...and like you point out, the dollar store is turning into the 20 dollar store :) And to think that only a few yrs ago, I would stick up my little nose at the thought of the dollar store.!

Audrey Hunt (author) from Pahrump NV on July 19, 2011:

happyboomernurse - I wonder how much longer the dollar store will be in business with the hike in food prices. I noticed that our local dollar store jacked up prices on most of the food - however the prices are still below the super market on most items. Thanks!

Audrey Hunt (author) from Pahrump NV on July 19, 2011:

Micky, marvelous one! I am keeping fairly cool by hiding out inside the house with the help of the AC. It sure is hot here in Tennessee. Take care, my friend and blessings to you. :)

Audrey Hunt (author) from Pahrump NV on July 19, 2011:

Eiddwen - You always manage to put a smile on my face. I love seeing your name come up in my comments. Thank you for your support and for reading and the wonderful rating. Hope your day is marvelous - just like you!

Audrey Hunt (author) from Pahrump NV on July 19, 2011:

b. Malin - Thanks for adding the brand canned soups. Something else to look for at the dollar store. I hope your day is as pleasant as you are, my friend. :)

Audrey Hunt (author) from Pahrump NV on July 19, 2011:

always exploring - thanks for the tip on fab laundry detergent. It sure pays to compare prices. Have a good day.

CountryCityWoman from From New York City to North Carolina on July 19, 2011:

So true - we see the word 'dollar' and just assume, great bargains galore. I am usually better off going into the supermarkets. But yes, for party supplies and light bulbs for all the weird lamps I have which are probably so outdated.

Thanks for the list. Yay!

Audrey Hunt (author) from Pahrump NV on July 19, 2011:

Suzie - I have to agree with you that wal mart has better bargains on most food. I save a lot of money on Clanceys (my dog) milk bones and pupperoni too. Thanks for your comments and enjoy your day, Suzie :)

Audrey Hunt (author) from Pahrump NV on July 19, 2011:

drbj - You have a 5 dollar store near you? Unbelievable. But, as you have pointed out, the way things are going, we may be seeing the final days of the dollar store. Thanks, my friend and have a million dollar day!

TheListLady from New York City on July 19, 2011:

Really good tips about what not to buy as well. Isn't it interesting how they are still called dollar stores while charging more.

Since I live here in the City with a million supermarkets around me - I can always get a better deal in the supermarkets - but for light bulbs - it is the dollar store.

We have to remember to always be educated consumers.

Rated up!

Audrey Hunt (author) from Pahrump NV on July 19, 2011:

Ladywriter - So glad to see you! I noticed yesterday while visiting the dollar store that the sizes are smaller but that is also true in the super market. Urggggh. I stuck to my own list and only spent 6 dollars. :)

Audrey Hunt (author) from Pahrump NV on July 18, 2011:

Chatkath - I made a quick trip to the dollar store today and even followed my own advice :) But today, everything looked way to low-quality and I'm having second thoughts about going back. :) Thank you, Kathy for your on-going support. They just don't make them any better than you!

Pamela N Red from Oklahoma on July 18, 2011:

Good advice, Vocal. You can get bargains there but you have to watch. I get gift bags, wrapping paper and some party goods there like paper plates.

Audrey Hunt (author) from Pahrump NV on July 15, 2011:

allpurposeguru - (love the username). So nice to receive your comments. I normally never go out of my way to shop the dollar store and confine my cart to a couple of cleaning products, extra toothbrushes and greeting cards.

Thanks for taking time to check out my hub. :)

Audrey Hunt (author) from Pahrump NV on July 15, 2011:

Kate - Comparative shopping can take some time, but for me, I save money in the long run. I rarely shop at the dollar store anymore. The quality of most merchandise seems to have taken a turn for the worst. Thanks so much for your comments. :)

Audrey Hunt (author) from Pahrump NV on July 14, 2011:

breakfastpop - Hahaha! This made me laugh, because it is mostly so true. Love it. :)

Audrey Hunt (author) from Pahrump NV on July 13, 2011:

prasetio - Hello, my friend. I can hardly believe you have a .50 cent store. Would be helpful to have one here.

Thank you for reading my hub and for the wonderful rating you have given to me. That is so nice of you. But then, you are the nicest man in all of hubland! Big hugs to you, dear Pras. :)

prasetio30 from malang-indonesia on July 13, 2011:

Nice information, my friend. You open my eyes about what happened outside, including this store. Actually there's a store with the same scheme in my home town. We called this "50 cents store". Everything were sold with 50 cents price. It looks affordable for us, but there's other section which sold things above this price. I really entertained with this hub. Again, you wrote this very well. I push "useful, awesome, beautiful and interesting" . I give this special for you. Keep it up! Cheers...

Blessing and hugs,

Kathy from California on July 13, 2011:

What a great hub idea Audrey! I go all the time and always wonder if some of the stuff is even worth $1. This little guide is most helpful! There are good deals to be had but you must do your homework -- Or read Audrey's Hub!!!!LOL

Bookmarked - Rated up and useful mu friend....

Eiddwen from Wales on July 13, 2011:

A brilliant hub and thank you for sharing vocalcoach.

Here's to many more to share.

Take care my friend and I vote this one up all the way as I always do with yours.

Take care my dear friend,

Eiddwen.

Micky Dee on July 13, 2011:

Great advice dear vocalcoach. Be well and stay cool this summer.

Dallas W Thompson from Bakersfield, CA on July 12, 2011:

Thanks! Completed a cabin cruiser restoration and update... Now back to getting my book published!

Audrey Hunt (author) from Pahrump NV on July 12, 2011:

dallas - Wonderful to see you again. Thanks a lot for your comments. Take care and watch your dollars :)

Audrey Hunt (author) from Pahrump NV on July 12, 2011:

hyphenbird - I bet I could learn a lot from you. :) Being mentally prepared and aware are the best tools to take with you at any store. Thanks for your contribution.

Dallas W Thompson from Bakersfield, CA on July 12, 2011:

Thanks for the information. Great article! Awesome.

breakfastpop on July 12, 2011:

I have been in dollar stores and have never seen a thing I thought was worth more than 10 cents.

LadyWriter from UK on July 12, 2011:

Same here in the UK; Pound (£) stores are great for the things you mention, cleaning products, paper table items etc - they cost far more at the supermarket. They do sell a lot of tat though!

Kate on July 12, 2011:

I so agree with you, You have to know your costs before shopping at Dollar stores as you can so easily get stung.

i found that buying things like paracetamol was one to watch out for. It is so much cheaper at a super market.

Also things like chocolate and other snacks can also cost you more at the Dollar store.

Brenda Barnes from America-Broken But Still Beautiful on July 11, 2011:

I go to the dollar stores for some items. Thankfully I have a great memory and can "see" in my mind prices from other stores when I shop. We are minimalists and that keeps us from buying junk from anywhere, like toys and minutia. Thanks for a great Hub.

Audrey Hunt (author) from Pahrump NV on July 11, 2011:

Lyn.Stewart - Oh yes, not that much seems to change. So glad you liked the hub. Hope all is well in your part of the world. :) vocalcoach

Gail Sobotkin from South Carolina on July 11, 2011:

Great hub and a good reminder of the things not to buy at the Dollar Store, especially the children's toys that may contain lead or have flimsy parts that break and present a choking hazard.

I do swear by the Dollar Store for basically all the items on your "what to buy" list.

drbj and sherry from south Florida on July 11, 2011:

Excellent Dollar Store recommendations, Audrey. It's still one of the best places to find a bargain as you pointed out. I expect, however, that before long, the way prices are rising, our favorite dollar stores may soon become two, three and five dollar stores. We have one of those in my neighborhood.

Voted up.

SusieQ42 on July 11, 2011:

Yes, I love saving money while shopping. I find some great deals at flea markets too. And Walmart is cheaper than our grocery store, Winn Dixie. Winn Dixie has great sales on meat- buy 1 get 1 free, but everything else is priced way up! Nice hub. Thank you.

Don A. Hoglund from Wisconsin Rapids on July 11, 2011:

It has been going on for quite awhile. How much is in a 3 lb can of coffee. Toilet tissue i find impossible to make comparisons on.I do thin it is deceptive packaging.

Audrey Hunt (author) from Pahrump NV on July 11, 2011:

chspublish - Before I got wise to how the Dollar Store works, I was spending money left and right. I really wasn't paying much attention to cost back then. I imagine many people do the same. Thanks for stopping by and enjoy every moment! Vocalcoach

chspublish from Ireland on July 11, 2011:

Well done. You've had the effect of making me re-think my dollar/euro store approach. You're right, it's best to shop further and check what other stores may be offering.

Audrey Hunt (author) from Pahrump NV on July 11, 2011:

lisa, my sweet friend - So happy to see you as always. And as for being frugal, I am always open to additional tips, so keep me in mind. :) vc

Ruby Jean Richert from Southern Illinois on July 11, 2011:

I shop at the Dollar Store, but i'm careful. I use Fab laundry detergent, and found that it was cheaper at Walmart. Thank's for the tips.

Audrey Hunt (author) from Pahrump NV on July 11, 2011:

dahogland - Speaking of smaller packaging, I have a real problem with super markets reducing the size of food products, then raising the prices. I suppose that is a sign of the times. Thank you for your comments.

b. Malin on July 11, 2011:

I do have to say, I sometimes have found (with good dates stamped on them) cans of Brand Soups. I agree on all of your Things to Buy at the $1.00 Store and find they are Fun to visit as long as we know our limitations. Good Hub as Usual, Vocalcoach. LOL.

David Guion from North Carolina on July 11, 2011:

Your lists should help lots of people. Alas, most of the categories of stuff to buy there are things I don't often buy at all. I don't go there very often, but I'll check it out the next time I do a snack run or want greeting cards.

Sylvia Van Peebles from Southern California on July 11, 2011:

This was great! I always thought the name should be changed to the "Twenty Dollar Store" because I always seem to spend at least that! Have you ever been to the 95+ Cents Stores? Everything is plus. I don't think I found anything for .95!

Mentalist acer from A Voice in your Mind! on July 11, 2011:

Baggies at my dollar store are a good buy...thanks for sharing vocalcoach.;)

WillStarr from Phoenix, Arizona on July 11, 2011:

True. Many things are actually higher at the Dollar Store, so shop carefully.

Tim Nichol from Me to You on July 11, 2011:

You're quite right Audrey, you can save a bundle at the dollar store. However, you still need to be 'smart' shopper. Many of the items are of rather cheap quality (you get what you pay for), and are not a good value in the long run..filling up landfill sites with broken can openers, etc.

I'm also leery of any food items, and personal hygeine items, unless they're the same name brands as the supermarkets.

I find the real bargains are plates, bowls and glasses, which are perfectly good quality and often quite substantial (as long as they don't have lead in them..who knows).

Audrey Hunt (author) from Pahrump NV on July 11, 2011:

Esmeowl - Its always fun to shop here and easy to get "carried away" - not something we want to do when every dollar counts. Thanks for visiting and I hope to see you soon. On my way to read your profile and a hub or 2. :)

Bruce Chamoff from New York on July 11, 2011:

Great information and thanks! V-Up!

Kieron Walker from Saratoga Springs, NY on July 11, 2011:

Good list. I still get mad at myself when I walk in the Dollar Store and realize that I just overpaid for an item at another store. One of the things that I always forget is that the dollar store sometimes has basic dry spices in the cooking section. Nothing fancy, but it can save a little money.

Lyn.Stewart from Auckland, New Zealand on July 11, 2011:

Brilliant ...thank you. I have noticed a similar thing here in New Zealand. some things are the same all around the world arnt they.

lisabeaman from Phoenix, AZ on July 11, 2011:

Great points Audrey! I love being frugal!

Don A. Hoglund from Wisconsin Rapids on July 11, 2011:

I don't get to the dollar stores too often but I have noticed that some products are smaller than at other stores, that is have less product.

Cindy A Johnson from Sevierville, TN on July 11, 2011:

Very good points. I love the dollar store but you do have to shop carefully. Thanks for the tips. Voted up and useful.

How Much Does It Cost to Open a Lush Store

Source: https://toughnickel.com/frugal-living/The-Dollar-Store-Can-Cost-You-More

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