Over 20 Dollar Tree Finds Still Worth It (+ 6 That Aren’t)
Ever wonder what are the best things to buy at Dollar Tree? We’ve got a list of all the best Dollar Tree products!
Once upon a time, Dollar Tree’s claim to fame was that everything in the store was priced at just $1.
In 2021, it was a shock to our bargain-loving systems when, after 35 years, the store abandoned its $1 pricing model and raised prices to $1.25.
Since then, Dollar Tree has implemented even more price hikes, with product prices now varying by location. At some stores, $1.50 is the lowest price you’ll see, with select items costing as much as $7! 😱
Despite Dollar Tree’s current multi-price strategy, it can still be one of the best places to stretch your budget. There are still some great deals across various departments, including brand-name goods, home decor, and food.
Below, you can see our updated list of the best things to buy at Dollar Tree, even after the store’s price hikes. Plus, see which Dollar Tree products we avoid because they’re no longer a bargain, or because the quality just isn’t worth the savings.
Check out the best Dollar Tree items to buy, even in the post-$1 era:
1. Candles & candle holders
Dollar Tree still offers a wide variety of candles, many starting at just $1.25. You may also see larger or specialty candles priced at $3 or $5. Still, they’re a fraction of what you’d pay elsewhere for similar fragrances and aesthetics.
2. Planters & garden supplies
Small tools, seed packets, and basic planters are often $1.25, while larger planters may be found at higher price points.
These products may be seasonal items at your local Dollar Tree, depending on your area’s growing season. But when you can find them, these items are great for gardening on a budget!
“I like to browse their gardening items in the spring! They have cute pots, hand rakes and shovels, and the little mats to kneel on are a lifesaver too! Even their seeds are a great buy. I still have flowers that pop up each summer that were Dollar Tree bulbs – planted at least 10 years ago.” – Hip team member, Amber
3. Glass vases
Glass vases are still one of the best deals at Dollar Tree! Many classic glass vases remain at $1.25, although some decorative or oversized options may be priced higher.
“The simple flower vases are a must! I used them for my wedding as candle holders, and I am using a bunch tonight for tulip vases. You cannot find them cheaper elsewhere (trust me, I looked)! I like keeping a few on hand to use for gifting flower bouquets, too.” – Hip team member, Emily
4. Makeup & cosmetics
Dollar Tree continues to carry budget-friendly beauty items, including popular lines like Ioni. Prices vary, but many essentials are still $1.25 – $3. It’s still possible to find some solid deals compared to what you would see at your local drugstore.
Even sweeter, you can still use coupons on Dollar Tree items for significant savings on name-brand cosmetics! Take some time to scope out the beauty/personal care section for name-brand products mixed in with the store-brand items.
“I like all the small-sized brand-name products for gift baskets, stocking stuffers, etc. They’re not necessarily cheaper per ounce or any other unit of measurement, but they work great when you want high-quality items in a small format for putting together gifts. When it comes to beauty items that go on your skin (which I’ve used for advent calendars in the past), I avoid anything that isn’t a name brand.” – Hip team member, Emily
5. Storage & organizational products
Bins, baskets, and storage solutions are still generally a good buy at Dollar Tree. Expect a mix of $1.25 basics and sturdier options from $3 to $5.
Whether you’re looking for plastic, canvas, or wire mesh, you’ll find a ton of storage and organizational products in a variety of shapes and sizes.
6. Learning & educational supplies
Teachers, we know you spend your own hard-earned money outfitting your classrooms to be fun and functional for your students.
Thankfully, you can still score affordable classroom supplies, learning tools, educational decor, and more. Just keep in mind that some larger kits and decor bundles may now be priced above $1.25.
7. Picture frames
Basic picture frames are often still $1.25, while more decorative or larger frames may be priced higher. These frames are still one of our favorite things to buy for crafts and DIY projects!
Hip Tip: Before purchasing, check to make sure that the hanging bracket or hook on the back is securely attached.
See how Lina used Dollar Tree frames to make these lanterns! 😍
8. Greeting cards
Dollar Tree’s greeting cards are sold in-store only, but we’ve found them to be totally worth the trip! Most of the cards are just $1.25, but you’ll find some that are two for $1 – only 50¢ each! We stock up on these every single time we set foot inside Dollar Tree.
These greeting cards are made by a division of the Hallmark company, so they’re surprisingly high-quality for the price. Stock up and keep them on hand for children’s birthday parties and all of life’s other occasions. You can’t beat that price!
“Any time I go into Dollar Tree, I come out with a handful of greeting cards to add to my stash. I love having cards ready to go for any occasion! This has saved me from countless last-minute trips to the store on the way to drop off my kids at birthday parties. They can just “shop” our selection at home! “- Hip team member, Jenna R.
“Holiday, birthday, and celebration cards are another win at Dollar Tree. I cringe at having to pay 4x or 5x more elsewhere. I love their gift bags, too! The gift wrap is just alright in my opinion — it’s cute and obviously cheap, but it’s very thin so depending on the design, it’s on the more sheer side and tears easily when wrapping gifts.” – Hip team member, Emily
9. Gift bags
One of Collin’s all-time favorite Dollar Tree attractions is the store’s huge assortment of gift bags!
Pair one with Dollar Tree’s inexpensive tissue paper or shreds, and it’s the absolute easiest, most cost-effective way to wrap up a pretty present in no time at all!
10. Laundry care and clothing storage
You’ll find everything you need to help care for your clothes with the laundry essentials and storage solutions from Dollar Tree!
Their vacuum pack bags are some of our readers’ favorites, and they’ll save you big when compared with their name-brand competitors.
11. Reading glasses & sunglasses
Keep your eyes peeled for prescription-strength fashion reading glasses for just $1.25 per pair, because they normally sell for much more at other stores.
If you’ve been known to lose or break expensive sunglasses in the past, you may want to grab a couple of pairs of cheap sunglasses to have on hand, too!
12. Hair ties & styling tools
If you’re constantly losing hair ties, Dollar Tree is a great place to replenish your stash! They have a huge, affordable selection of hair ties and other styling tools, perfect for everyday basics.
13. Bread products
You really can’t beat $1.25 for name-brand bread (sold in-store only at Dollar Tree)! There are lots of different varieties to choose from, including multigrain loaves, mini-bagels, and tortillas.
Availability can be hit-or-miss, so take advantage and stock up when they have a nice selection! If it’s close to the expiration date, you can always throw these products in the freezer until you’re ready to use them.
14. Books
You may be able to find best-selling books at Dollar Tree priced at just $1.25 each! Some newer titles may be priced higher, but they retail for much more on Amazon or at your local bookstore, so this is a great deal on new reading material.
Dollar Tree also has a pretty impressive selection of children’s books, activity books, and puzzle books for both kids and adults, all for just $1.25!
15. Pregnancy tests
Why pay drugstore prices for a pregnancy test when you can find them for just $1.25 at Dollar Tree?! Most readers seem to agree that these tests work just as well as the name-brand tests.
If you’re trying to conceive, Dollar Tree also sells a highly-rated ovulation predictor for just $1.25!
“I can confirm that the pregnancy tests at Dollar Tree work JUST as well as the expensive ones you find at Walgreens. With my first pregnancy, I spent at LEAST $50 (probably more) on 7 pregnancy tests. With my second I wised-up and went to Dollar Tree so I could take as many tests as I wanted without breaking the bank. I got very clear results 4 days before I was supposed to take the test. I’ll never buy them anywhere else again. 🙂” – Hip reader, Briana
16. Toys and kids’ gifts
You’ll find some of your kids’ favorite characters in the aisles of Dollar Tree and brand-name toys like Hot Wheels, Matchbox, Barbie, and more!
These are perfect for party favors, stocking stuffers, and rewards for your kiddos.
“I teach in a kids’ program at church, and give goodie bags away for the different holidays. Dollar Tree always has cute seasonal bags and then all the fillers, mini bubbles, pencils, silly glasses, etc.” – Hip team member, Stef
“My younger two have grown out of the ‘puts everything in the mouth’ stage and are both now in the ‘constantly needs bribes to do ANYTHING’ stage. So, I bribe them with ‘credits’ that they can spend at Dollar Tree. They spend them on bubbles, balls, hula hoops, squirt guns, and other cheap toys. I know these toys aren’t going to last forever, but each child averages one ‘prize’ per week and actually cares about the toy half as long, so I don’t feel like I’m wasting money.” – Hip reader, Leighann
17. Party supplies & decorations
Throw the best parties on a budget with inexpensive party supplies, including tableware, decorations, party favors, and so many other party essentials.
Basics start at $1.25, although themed or licensed items may cost more. Many Dollar Tree locations also have mylar balloons that they will inflate with helium for you while you shop!
18. Holiday and seasonal merchandise
You’ll have no problem finding HUGE assortments of holiday and seasonal decor, gifts, and accessories at Dollar Tree. Seasonal decor now spans multiple price points, but you can still score some great finds for just $1.25.
“I love their holiday items and get fun little decor items!”– Hip team member, Stef
“Another thing totally worth buying is the Christmas ornaments! They have absolutely BEAUTIFUL Christmas ornaments that sell out quickly. I’ve found amazing ornaments that looked like they cost way more than a dollar, and the ones that I’ve purchased get raves every Christmas.” – Hip reader, Gigi
19. Beach & pool toys
Dollar Tree is the perfect spot to grab inexpensive pool toys, beach gear, and swim goggles. Since they’re bound to get lost or take a beating, you may as well pay the least amount possible for them!
20. Pet supplies (non-food)
Dollar Tree has a pet department where you can pick up supplies like collars, leashes, harnesses, grooming tools, waste bags, and more. They have some fun extras too, like toys and rawhides for your furry friends!
“I always buy Dollar Tree’s dog waste bags! I believe they come 3 to a pack for $1.25. The pet stores sell them sometimes for $5+ per pack!” – Hip team member, Denise
21. Dinner plates and Serveware
Dollar Tree’s tableware selection includes some of the best finds in the whole store! Basic dishes from brands like Royal Norfolk are still a solid deal, though expanded collections may include higher-priced items.
While you’re there, check out Dollar Tree’s Catering Supplies and serveware, too.
Their serving platters and bowls are great to have on hand for potlucks, cookie exchanges, or taking a meal to someone. For such a low price, you don’t need to worry about leaving it behind, cleaning it, or getting it back!
22. Baking Pans
Dollar Tree has an impressive selection of reusable baking pans, including cookie sheets, baking pans, and muffin tins, for only $1.25!
23. Spices
If you love to cook, you know how expensive seasonings and spices can get. Dollar Tree’s spice section is still a great budget option, though prices may vary slightly.
24. Candy, gum, & snacks
If you’re buying name-brand candy like Sour Patch Kids, M&M’s, or theater box candy, shopping at Dollar Tree can be an easy win. You can often find standard-size boxes for $1.25, which easily beats movie theater and even convenience store pricing.
Beyond candy, you can also find trendy snacks and limited-edition seasonal treats at Dollar Tree, too. Buying these can be a great way to sample some new goodies without spending a lot of money!
“They have a good selection of healthy snacks in smaller sizes like Jacks Links beef jerky/turkey jerky, Boom Chicka Pop popcorn, Skinny Pop popcorn, Veggie Chips, and mini pretzels. Those are my go-tos! I try to stay away from the non-name-brand snacks and foods.” – Hip team member, Amber
“We have a Dollar Tree next door to our movie theater. We don’t do movies often, but when we do, we definitely get candy at Dollar Tree!” – Hip team member, Melinda
“My family is obsessed with Brim’s Movie Theater Butter Flavored Popcorn!” – Hip team member, Stef
Worst Dollar Tree items to buy:
1. Brand-name cleaning products
These may seem like a deal, but more often than not, these cleaning products are packaged in smaller quantities than you’re used to seeing on the shelves of big-box stores. This means that you’ll actually end up paying more per ounce.
Instead, look out for cleaning products from the LA’s Totally Awesome and Fabuloso brands. Readers LOVE these budget-friendly cleaning products from Dollar Tree. We like to buy sponges there, too!
2. Brand-name pantry foods
As with Dollar Tree’s cleaning products, some of the packaging sizes for the store’s name-brand foods are small, so be sure to compare the cost per ounce with your grocery store’s prices.
You may stumble upon a good deal from time to time, but you have to compare the prices closely.
3. Canned goods
While we used to recommend buying certain canned goods at Dollar Tree, we’ve been skipping them since the price hikes. You might as well pick up these items at Walmart or even Target, which often sell them for less.
4. Pet food
The price per ounce of Dollar Tree’s name-brand pet foods can be much higher than if you buy a bulk bag at another store.
Plus, experts have expressed concerns about the lack of quality standards for off-brand pet foods. You may want to stick to pet stores and other retailers for brands with stricter ingredient guidelines.
“I do not buy pet food from the dollar store. Besides being of questionable quality, it’s cheaper in bigger sizes from other stores. Also, NEVER use flea and tick products from dollar stores. I’ve seen dogs with chemical burns from cheap flea treatment.” – Hip reader, Ash
5. Brand-name baby products
Brand-name baby products can be hit or miss, depending on the product size. Most of the time, it’s better to locate these brands at a retailer that sells them in bulk.
6. Tools
Don’t buy your tools at Dollar Tree unless you’re only planning to use them a couple of times. The quality just isn’t that great. Consider investing in a more expensive tool during a sale.
Typically, the big-box home improvement stores have some great offers during their Memorial Day, Father’s Day, and Labor Day sales.
That said, if you’re painting around the house and trying to avoid the time-consuming task of cleaning paintbrushes, you may want to pick some up at Dollar Tree. They’re so inexpensive that you won’t feel too guilty about tossing them at the end of the job, rather than trying to get them clean.
“I wouldn’t recommend any of the tools from their hardware section. They’re really you-get-what-you-pay-for, and they’re (understandably) very cheaply made. That said, they do have some handy home stuff there that you don’t need to overpay for elsewhere, like mini Armor All car cleaning supplies, microfiber towels, etc.” – Hip team member, Emily
“I buy paintbrushes at Dollar Tree, and that way I don’t have to clean the brushes when I’m done painting. The kids are able to help paint, and if the brush gets ruined, it’s not a loss. Our house is a testament that they work fine on trim and interior corners!” – Hip reader, M
The jury’s still out on this Dollar Tree item: Batteries
We’ve received so many comments from readers saying that they’ve found Dollar Tree’s batteries to work just as well (if not better) than popular name brands. At the same time, we know that many of our readers have had a much different experience with these inexpensive batteries.
So if you’ve never tried Dollar Tree’s batteries, it might be worth $1.50 to see for yourself. Maybe snag a few the next time you’re there and give ’em a try. If you do, be sure to come back and join in the debate!
“Dollar Tree’s batteries run out fast, and sometimes they have no charge to them when you buy them. However, I do have to say if you need a specialty battery like the ones that look like nickels and go in things like small electronics, those are awesome to get there because you can’t beat the price, and they do work.” – Hip reader, Jen
“I use a lot of batteries and have done a lot of research into which batteries are the best, and it’s my conclusion that the cheaper batteries are better than the name-brand batteries. They sure cost a lot less, so I will continue to buy batteries at Dollar Tree. I’m very happy with them!” – Hip reader, Joan
“Dollar Tree’s regular batteries don’t last long at all. But I do like buying the lithium batteries there (the flat silver ones), as they are so expensive elsewhere. Those seem to last ok.” – Hip team member, Angela
“DT batteries seem to be OK for items that don’t need a ton of juice, like a TV remote or flashlight. But a no-go for video controllers! We bought rechargeable batteries a few years ago, and it’s definitely a better investment than having to fork out $$ for batteries every few months.” – Hip reader, Mel
“I only use Dollar Tree batteries, and they are fine for me. We use them for remotes, my cordless mouse, battery string lights for crafts, and battery-operated pillar candles. For that, they are great! I don’t use them as the battery backup for our wired smoke alarms, as I don’t trust that they will last. For those, I do buy name brands. Otherwise, I think they work well for small stuff, considering they are so cheap!” – Hip team member, Amber
Here are a few other Dollar Tree shopping tips:
- Looks can be deceiving! Compare sizes and prices to what you’d normally pay at your local grocery store after coupons. For example, 6-load bottle of Tide Simply Clean & Fresh for $1.50 may not end up being the best price per ounce.
- At Dollar Tree, you can use manufacturer’s coupons or occasional store coupons for increased savings! Plus, they accept coupons for over the value of an item, but the coupon value will be reduced to the purchase price of the item. You may find it helpful to print the store’s coupon policy and bring it with you when shopping.
- If you have issues using coupons at Dollar Tree, contact Dollar Tree customer service by phone at 1-877-530-TREE, or via the contact form to share your feedback.
A lot of the canned goods come from other countries; although some are US & are a Good buy! Please read the labels!
I think the book section is hit or miss, but sometimes I find treasures… I popped in to grab a sympathy card the other day and found a Tabitha Brown cookbook and a Ripley’s Believe It Or Not book that individually retail for $12 and & $15 on Amazon, so I was super excited! Happy shopping!
What fun finds, Anna! 🤩 Love when Dollar Tree surprises with treasures like that. Such a great score on those books! Thanks for sharing! 💕
As of about 2 weeks ago our toys start at $1.75. It is marked on the shelf and items. Not at all worth it.
A warning about the picture frames. They are not the sizes they say. If you are ok with trimming your pictures then it’s ok. We bought 8x10s for a work project and they were about 1/4″-1/2″ smaller.
Thanks for the heads up on the sizing of the picture frames acgold! Good to know they may be smaller than advertised. 💗
Love the Dollar Tree batteries, but at our Dollar Tree they went to $3 quite awhile ago. :/ They have name brand batteries now too and they are even more expensive. Not so much a bargain in my book anymore.
Thanks for letting us know what you’ve noticed at your store, Becca. I’ve noticed some higher priced, name brand battery options at my location as well.
I get my batteries at Harbor Freight. Their’s is 24 to the pack of AA & AAA for $7.99. But often (especially near holidays) they will be $4.99 or $5.99. It’s their name brand. But it’s the only kind I’ve bought (except for once when my car was down) in the last decade. I bought one of those battery holders as “seen on TV”. Filled it up before covid and it’s still over half full. I bought some Amazon ones in a pinch and they die quick. Btw those battery holders are great. They even come with a easy to use battery tester. we never run out of batteries now.
Thanks a bunch for sharing all that helpful info, Sylvia! 🙌 Sounds like those Harbor Freight batteries have been such a reliable win for you, and I love the tip on the battery holder with the tester too. I’ve been looking at one of those to grab and use also! 🔋 Super smart way to stay stocked up!