This article originally appeared and was published on AOL.com
We brought you the best items to get at the dollar store, but these are common Dollar Tree purchases we think you’re better off skipping.
Although they may be only $1 a pop, you may be throwing money down the drain by investing in these low grade items. You can sometimes risk substandard quality, missing components and smaller packaging.
It’s best to err on the side of caution for some dollar store deals like cables and toys that may not meet safety requirements or are prone to breaking. Consider skipping over potential medicine and vitamin knock-offs that risk inferior quality to a drugstore version, or opting for Costco for some bulk buys.
When shopping for these 9 everyday items, you’re better off scoping out wholesale stores or the clearance aisle at retail stores if you’re on a tight budget.
Avoid being short-changed, and check out our list of products you should skip at Dollar Tree and shop for elsewhere.
It’s best to err on the side of caution when buying cords and cables at the dollar store. Some merchandise may not reach safety requirements or may be prone to breaking.
Toys run the same risk as cords, so consider buying toys from the clearance aisle at a retail store if you’re on a tight budget.
Tools at the dollar store are typically of substandard quality, so you may want to find a discounted set at a hardware store instead.
Medicines at the dollar store may be missing ingredients, so you’re better off buying at a drugstore to ensure the highest quality.
Similar to medicines, we recommend purchasing vitamins at your local drugstore.
In addition to medicines and vitamins, you run the risk that dollar store pet food is missing ingredients and of lesser quality.
Soda at the dollar store is often packaged in only 1L bottles, so you’ll most likely find a better bargain at a grocery shop or wholesale store.
When I go to the 99 Cent Store, I always try to guess which brand of soda Shasta is ripping off…
Similar to soda, gum is often sold in smaller packaging at the dollar store, so you’re better off buying in bulk at wholesale store.
You risk knock-offs to name brand versions that are less efficient.
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