Not something you hear too often, right?

Once we reach a certain age, there becomes almost a stigma surrounding the dollar store.

Isn’t that… for poor people!?

Not really! Making excellent use of your money is just a smart thing to do no matter what your bank account looks like – and getting into that habit now will only help you more and more down the road. 

After all, learning how to maximize your money is the key to keeping your money when you stop working (for most of us, anyway).  

That said, the dollar store can be great – but only if you know what to look for. You can actually be getting a terrible deal if you’re not savvy. So I’ve put together a list of the best and worst things you can buy at Dollar General or Dollar Tree.  

Lay your money down on:

  • Greeting cards – grabbing these sentimental holiday staples at other stores can cost more than 5x the dollar store price!
  • Pregnancy tests – they can cost $15 at the pharmacy, and the dollar store version is just as accurate.
  • Cleaning supplies – mops, buckets, brooms, sponges, scourers, hand towels, and bleach are all a good buy.
  • Holiday decorations and party supplies – someone with an eye for decor (or a Pinterest account for inspiration) can create a beautiful event for a fraction of what you’d pay at department stores.
  • Housewares – you can find some attractive dishware and glass sets, but skip utensils since they’re often super cheaply made.
  • Organizational supplies – spice up your office space with wire mesh or plastic on the cheap.
  • Pet supplies – not food. Treat your dog or cat to a new leash, bowl, toy, or even a pet-themed blanket, and know you’re not getting gouged.

Avoid at all costs:

  • Tools – you get what you pay for here, and they often break after a few uses – skip.
  • Toilet paper – horrible quality, and you actually get way less than buying at your usual department or grocery store. There’s always a sale somewhere on toilet paper. Just keep your eyes open.
  • Canned food – you can find better brands often for less than a dollar at your grocery store.
  • Chargers – often poor quality, can cause a fire hazard and even void the warranty on your electronics.
  • Laundry detergent – for a few dollars more, you can get far better quality and more loads per bottle at other stores. 
  • Garbage bags – these wastes of plastic will have you muttering some choice words as they fall apart while you’re carrying your terrible dollar store chargers and tools to the curb. 
  • Knives – cheap knives are often extremely dull and poorly put together, which is actually dangerous.

Did any of these surprise you? Which one?

But, you’ve probably already figured out that you’re not going to have enough money for retirement just from buying from the dollar store – and you’re spot on.  

That takes looking at the entire picture and coming up with a holistic plan of wise money management, smart spending, and diverse investing. In other words – exactly what I can help you with. 

If you want to chat with me to find out exactly how a financial advisor like me can be an invaluable part of your future plan, the next step is simple. Just call 513-563-PLAN (7526) to book your 15 minutes – or click here.