A shopping trip to Target or Walmart can get expensive fast, especially when your cart fills up with everyday basics. Toothbrushes, hair ties, greeting cards, cleaning supplies, and other small purchases may seem cheap on their own, but the total can add up before you reach the checkout.
That’s why some shoppers now check Dollar Tree first for certain household items. In a Reddit discussion, people shared the things they no longer buy at larger retailers, from bathroom supplies to party decorations.
Here are 15 items worth checking at Dollar Tree before paying more elsewhere, though prices and quality can vary by store.
Toothbrushes and Dental Basics
Toothbrushes, floss picks, and other basic dental supplies are among the items some shoppers prefer to buy at Dollar Tree. Check the packaging and bristle quality, then compare prices with multipacks at other stores before deciding which option offers better value.
Related: 10 Affordable Dollar Tree Beauty Finds That Feel Surprisingly High-End
Hair Clips, Scrunchies and Hair Accessories
Claw clips, scrunchies, hair ties, bobby pins, brushes, combs, and headbands are easy to find at Dollar Tree for everyday use. If you tend to lose hair ties or want a few extra clips for your bag, drawer, or bathroom, buying a low-cost pack can make sense.
Greeting Cards
Greeting cards can cost several dollars each at some stores, even for a simple birthday or thank-you message. Dollar Tree carries cards for birthdays, graduations, Mother’s Day, and other occasions, so you can keep a few on hand without spending much.
Gift Bags, Tissue Paper and Wrapping Supplies
Gift bags, tissue paper, tape, and other wrapping supplies are popular Dollar Tree buys because they’re often used just once. Buying them there leaves more room in your budget for the actual gift, especially if you need supplies for several birthdays or holidays.
Related: 16 Things You Should Seriously Consider Buying With Cash
Razors and Shaving Supplies
Some shoppers buy razors, shaving cream, and shaving oil at Dollar Tree to save money compared with familiar brands elsewhere. Compare the number of blades, the quantity in each package, and how comfortable the product feels before making it your regular choice.
Cleaning Supplies
Disinfectant sprays, toilet bowl cleaners, gloves, sponges, brushes, and cleaning vinegar are among the household supplies shoppers check at Dollar Tree. Compare the bottle size and ingredient information with similar products elsewhere, since a lower shelf price doesn’t always mean a lower cost per use.
Tissues
Tissues are another household staple that can cost more than expected at grocery stores and big-box retailers. Some shoppers mentioned Dollar Tree’s triple-aloe tissues as a lower-cost option, particularly for households that go through several boxes each week.
Related: Surprising Facts About Toilet Paper Most People Never Learn
Shampoo, Conditioner and Hair Care
Shampoo, conditioner, hair masks, hairspray, and leave-in conditioner are among the hair care items people report buying at Dollar Tree. Since hair products work differently for everyone, check the ingredients and package size, and stick with a formula that suits your hair.
Basic Personal-Care Supplies
Loofahs, washcloths, bar soap, cotton swabs, nail files, and nail clippers are simple items many households replace regularly. Dollar Tree can be a convenient place to pick up these basics without paying more for decorative packaging or brand names.
Nail Polish and Press-On Nails
Nail polish, press-on nails, polish remover, and other manicure supplies can be inexpensive finds at Dollar Tree. Check seals and packaging before buying, and compare the quality and quantity with similar products at beauty stores.
Related: 12 Little-Known Ways a Bottle of Nail Polish Can Fix Annoying Problems Around Your House
Notebooks and Basic Stationery
Notebooks, sticky notes, envelopes, and other stationery supplies can add up if you buy each item separately at a larger retailer. Dollar Tree shoppers have reported finding everything from small notebooks and writing supplies to envelopes and watercolor paper for less.
Pet Toys
Some pet owners check Dollar Tree for toys instead of spending more at pet stores or larger retailers. Look for secure stitching, sturdy construction, and age-appropriate designs, and avoid toys with small parts that your pet could swallow.
Party Supplies
Balloons, decorations, disposable plates, cups, and cutlery can make party planning more expensive than expected. It’s worth checking Dollar Tree for these supplies, especially if you’re hosting a one-time event and don’t need premium tableware.
Seasonal Decorations
Small signs, figurines, window clings, and other holiday decorations can be inexpensive finds at Dollar Tree. Since many seasonal items come out for just a few weeks each year, buying affordable decorations can help you switch things up without spending much.
Reading Glasses
Some shoppers buy inexpensive reading glasses at Dollar Tree to keep spare pairs in different rooms, bags, or desk drawers. Check the magnification printed on the glasses and consult an eye care professional if you have ongoing vision problems or need a prescription.
