20 Things You Should Always Buy at the Dollar Store

Posted by Doug Murray on October 14, 2016, Updated on October 26, 2017

If you haven't been to a dollar store lately (or ever), you might be surprised at what they offer. And how low the prices are. Dollar stores stock everything from tools to tuna, and you can find many common items for a fraction of what you'd pay elsewhere. 

Next time you go shopping, stop at the dollar store first to see what items you can tick off your list. You'll be shocked by how much you can buy and how much you can save. In the meantime, here are 20 things that you should always buy at your local dollar store.

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    1. Party Supplies

    Why spend a lot of money on party supplies when you're only going to use them for a few hours? Your local dollar store has hats, banners and all the items you need to throw a fun party — without a big bill.
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    2. Greeting Cards

    It's more about what you write in a greeting card than the card itself. So why spend $5 or more on a card? The dollar store has a good selection of cards that are cheap but just as meaningful.
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    3. Office and School Supplies

    Office and school supplies are expensive. But the dollar store has most of what you need for very little money. If you need something like a stapler, but don't want to pay for a heavy duty one, this is where you'll find it.
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    4. Hallowe'en Decorations

    Your local dollar store has everything you need for Hallowe'en, making it easy to transform your house into the most spooktacular on the block, without spending a fortune. Don't forget to come back for decorations and supplies for Christmas and Easter.
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    5. Canada Day Stuff

    And let's not forget Canada Day. You can pick up flags, hats, buttons, beer holders, and much more for just a few bucks.
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    6. Cleaning Supplies

    Cleaning supplies are another bargain at the dollar store. You'll often find brand-name products and the generic versions are just as good.
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    7. Kitchenware

    Nutcracker? Spatula? Cutlery? You can get everything under the sun for your kitchen at much less than you'd pay in a department store.
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    8. Tools

    If you need a specific tool that you're probably only going to use once, why spend big bucks at the hardware store? You can find a cheap version at the dollar store, and while the tools aren't meant for heavy-duty use, they're just fine for occasional fixes.
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    9. Reading Glasses

    It can be shocking to see what some stores charge for simple reading glasses. Why pay $30 when you can pay $2? Stock up and scatter them throughout the house so you'll always have a pair on hand.
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    10. Canned Food

    Not all the food items at a dollar store are bargains, so you'll have to do your research. But some tinned and packaged goods are available for just a fraction of what they sell for at the supermarket.
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    11. Drugs

    Your dollar store has a great selection of brand name and generic drugs for headaches, allergies, stomach upset and other minor ailments. The packages contain limited doses and are great for carrying with you when travelling.
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    12. Candy

    You'll find all your favourite treats at the dollar store, many for much less than at the grocery or convenience store. If you're planning a party or stocking up for Hallowe'en, make the dollar store your first stop.
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    13. Computer Cables

    Have you ever picked up a printer for a great price only to find out that you've got to buy a cable that's $25? Ignore the upsell and head to your local dollar store. You'll find printer cables, Ethernet cables, USB cables and all kinds of other computer accessories for just a few bucks.
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    14. Tissues

    Surprised at how much tissues, toilet paper and other paper products cost? You'll find all these items at the dollar store. You'll have no problem with brand name products, but be careful with generic brands. Buy a package to see if you're happy with the quality before stocking up.
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    15. Storage Containers

    The dollar store has a wide selection of storage containers for everything from soup to nuts, and at much lower prices than you'll find elsewhere.
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    16. Gift Bags, Boxes, and Wrapping Paper

    Why pay more for gift bags, boxes and wrapping paper? You can find everything you need for gift giving at the dollar store.
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    17. Hair Accessories

    Hair accessories are a bargain at the dollar store as well. Stock up.
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    18. Home Decor Items

    If your walls and shelves are a little bare, take a trip to the dollar store. You'll find all sorts of knickknacks that will help fill that empty space.
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    19. Toys

    Need some new toys? The dollar store has a good selection of cheap toys for all ages. It's also a great place for grandparents to stock up for when the grandkids come to visit.
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    20. Toiletries

    Why pay more for shampoo, conditioner, and other toiletries? You'll find familiar brands and quality generic products for much less than at the drugstore or supermarket.
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