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- Many people think they are getting a bargain when they shop at the dollar store.
- Financial experts caution that toothpaste and other products can have higher prices.
- For example, sunscreens sold at Walmart cost $0.87 per ounce whereas at Dollar Tree they are $1.25 per an ounce.
As I begin to plan for the final months of the year I remind myself that How expensive holiday season can be.
To ensure that you are able to Save money nowOn every day purchases, I’ve been looking for more coupons to use, and checking prices at local dollar shops to see if I can save any extra cash.
However, after speaking to financial experts, it became clear to me that not every item in a dollar store is a bargain. Some may even be more expensive than shopping at another retailer.
1. Canned food
Galstyan suggests that you don’t always get the best deal at a dollar store if you want to stock your pantry with canned foods for winter. You might find yourself paying twice what you would pay at a local store.
Galstyan discovered that the minimum price for Cans at Dollar TreeWas $1.25 At a local WalmartHe was able to purchase canned food at a minimum cost of $0.50.
2. Laundry detergent and cleaning products
You don’t have to pay a lot for household cleaning products. But you do need to be able to navigate the market to get the best deals.
Financial analyst certified Doug CareyA recent trip to source cleaning products revealed that items at Dollar Tree were more costly than those sold by other stores, such as Walmart.
Carey, for example, found that household cleaners were the most effective. Ajax cost $1.25 at DollartreeCompare Walmart: $0.98. The same applies to laundry detergent. Carey found that at Dollar Tree120 ounces are $15; 164 ounces are $16 same detergent at WalmartPrice: $12.74
3. Toothpaste
One thing you might want to grab at a dollar store is toothpaste. Galstyan warns that you won’t walk away with any good deals.
For example, at Dollar TreeA tube of Colgate Cavity Protection toothpaste (5 oz) is $1.25. However, a 3-pack of the toothpaste is available for $1.25. Walmart — in a bigger size (six ounces) — costs $4.97.
4. Sunscreen
It’s possible to get sunscreen more if you are planning to go on a tropical vacation in the winter. Galstyan states that you shouldn’t buy sunscreen at dollar stores.
He discovered Banana Boat sunscreen. Dollar TreeOne fluid ounce costs $1.25 and the same price for the same product WalmartFluid ounces $0.87
Even though some savings may only be a few cents per item, these can quickly add up, especially if your cart is full at a dollar shop. These items might cost you more than if purchased elsewhere.
