I Started Buying These 6 Things at Dollar Tree and My Budget Thanked Me
As your friendly neighborhood personal finance writer, I’ve learned a few things over the years. One of the biggest lessons is that generic, low-cost versions of everyday items are often just as good as their pricier counterparts. So, I’ve become quite a regular at my local Dollar Tree.
By swapping items I’d typically get at the grocery store or a big-box retailer like Target for less expensive alternatives, I’ve been able to trim my spending without sacrificing much convenience or quality. Here are six items I now buy at Dollar Tree — and why my budget is better for it.
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1. Scrub Buddies Long-Cuff Medium Pink Reusable Latex Gloves
Price: $1.50
When it comes to latex gloves I use for scrubbing dishes, cleaning the bathroom and tackling less glamorous tasks like clogged drains, there’s no reason to overspend. These reusable latex gloves do the job, clean easily and hold up well enough that I get plenty of use before needing to replace them.
2. Ultra-Concentrated Rain Fresh Scented Liquid Laundry Detergent
Price: $1.50
This 64-ounce bottle of laundry detergent lasts me quite a while, and I love the way it makes my clothes smell. Spending only $1.50 on one bottle is a much cheaper alternative than snapping up a brand name at a grocery store. At my local Giant, a smaller bottle of Arm & Hammer detergent retails for more than $5.
3. Waste Basket
Price: $1.50
At the end of the day, a waste basket is far from the fanciest item in anyone’s home — so why spend big on it? When I need a replacement, I head to Dollar Tree for a simple, durable option in neutral colors like white or black. It serves its purpose just as well as higher-priced versions sold elsewhere.
4. Healthy Choice Chicken Noodle Soup
Price: $1.50
Like anyone trying to be more frugal, I’m a fan of keeping my pantry loaded with cost-effective and delicious options. When I’m feeling under the weather or short on time, I like having a few cans of this chicken noodle soup available. I get them at Dollar Tree because even the store-brand soups at traditional grocery stores are typically more expensive, running closer to $2 or more per can, depending on location.
5. Crystal Louisiana’s Pure Hot Sauce
Price: $1.50
I don’t put hot sauce on everything, but sometimes I crave a little heat in dishes like scrambled eggs. I used to add Crystal Louisiana’s Pure Hot Sauce to my Target orders for nearly $2 a bottle, but then I learned I could get it cheaper at Dollar Tree. And why not save everything I can? Even 50 cents here and there adds up over time.
6. Small Natural Kraft Paper Gift Bags, 3-ct. Packs
Price: $1.25
Rather than spend between $3 and $5 on individual gift bags from Hallmark or a grocery store — which can quietly add up if I have several gifts to give at once — I get a three-pack of gift bags from Dollar Tree. The best part? Since the bags are a neutral brown color, I can personalize them with drawings, stickers or ribbon.
Editor’s note: Prices and availability are subject to change.
This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal, or tax advice.
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