Dollar Store Items I NEVER BUY (And Some I Do!)

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We've done dollar store hauls in the past here at Clean My Space, and the truth is, some of the items have been great, but a lot of them really let us down - literally falling apart after a few uses. In this video I'm going to go through some things that I just do not buy at the dollar store anymore, and I also cover off some things that I think you should definitely by at the dollar store!
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Questions? Comments?
We'd love to hear from you - say hello down below!

[@mrcausey]

I am a science teacher and the Dollar Store saves me so much money. Great place for buying things you're going to destroy.

[@sirenofsound]

Mr. Causey Yes- and not to mention the adorable classroom decorations at Dollar Tree.

[@mrcausey]

Saida Agourram I am am biochemist and very a good steward of the environment.

[@miravech]

+Saida Agourram 👌

[@777nms]

Mr. Causey Yes! Indeed!

[@197228sept]

Approve! :D

[@Klaudieja]

I've felt their stationary, poster boards, and bubble envelopes are a good deal.

[@cleanmyspace]

That's a good one!

[@francaromano4821]

Klaudieja sometimes they even have good quality name pens!

[@ShellyCline]

Klaudieja I ALWAYS buy bubble envelopes at the dollar store, 2 for a $1!

[@vs818812]

the bubble envelopes at walmart 2 for 84 cents, save even more money!

[@Diamond_Skies]

Definitely. I buy packs of Post-Its and Sharpies thee for much cheaper than any other place. Re: plastic, though: I have bought plastic storage bins there and they serve the purpose well. As long as you test to make sure the lids fit, they work.

[@sassystoic]

I sense an undertone that "brand name" implies a higher quality, which isn't always true.

[@izdihar17]

also kids that still play with toys don’t care about the higher end quality of their barbie they will stop caring about that piece of plastic after two weeks

[@malvavisco10]

That's the whole topic of this. You paid no attention.

[@desertguy1362]

Disagree brand name typically is better quality other than consumables and cosmetics. Do you want legos or do want colored build blocks with no theme or creativity

[@angelaponder3348]

Totally agree with you there. Some so called off brands may just be new and trying to get into the market. Once in the market it takes a couple years and the become name brand items.

[@TheDeathmail]

In general, it's true... in general... doesn't mean it's always true. But from a big brand. They will at least have a base quality.... from other brands, it's kinda a gamble....

[@taraschmidheini4674]

The cards at Dollar Tree are 2 for $1 or $1 EA. and 90percent of them are Hallmark; really nice cards!!!

[@jenriv89]

I'm gonna disagree with the cooking tools tip. Dollar Tree carries Betty Crocker brand tools and 99cents carries the Pillsbury stuff and I've had great experiences with both of those. As with everything, it's about examining the product in your hand.

[@ClayPearl]

jenriv89 I agree. I bought a lemon squeezer there that is still going strong!

[@jenriv89]

Karen Riojas nice! My favorite thing I've bought was a zester. We use it as a cheese grater and zester lol but it's great quality.

[@vesperholly]

Yes! I have red measuring cups and spoons from Betty Crocker and they're great. Mine are at least 7 or 8 years old and still going strong.

[@jenriv89]

Idk I normally love the CMS videos but this has some classist undertones that felt pretty icky, especially about the food. Its the same things that people say about grocery stores in Latino areas, and they're statements that are flat-out wrong. I buy produce and food products there and with some careful examination you can really outfit a pantry in a pinch. Again, as with everything in every store, it's about careful examination of what you're about to put in your cart.

[@jenriv89]

vesperholly that is awesome!

[@TheLadyPrefers2Save]

I'm going to disagree about the personal care items. I've seen Yes to Carrots and Yes to Blueberries and other organic products at the Dollar Tree with an expiration date two or three years in advance. I'm also a huge advocate of the crafting materials, education materials (for my husband's classroom), including National Geographic and Newberry Award Winning Children's books, best-seller hardcover books, gift bags, and cleaning products such as generic Mr. Clean Erasers. Also, in terms of purchase pricing per unit, for those who coupon you can buy tons of name brand items for tax only, so per ounce items purchased with coupons, they will always be cheaper. So a blanket statement advocating against buying specific items at the Dollar Tree should be taken with a grain of salt!

[@modelsupplies]

A lot of the shampoos and conditioners at the dollar stores have better ingredients than big brands. It's pretty weird, but something I discovered about 10 years ago.

[@chelseav8311]

I love the organization bins/baskets, craft supplies (small canvases for painting, Mason jars, glue etc..), and the trifold poster boards for class presentations.

[@susanreynolds9947]

no way am I spending a Dollar on a box of baking soda that I can get for 50 cents at Aldi.

[@susanreynolds9947]

@@sarakhaldi9767 No, here in my area atleast baking soda (at the dollar tree) is a dollar. same with alot of things like canned food and cat food when you can buy those things for less than a dollar in other stores. But I know what you mean b/c sometimes the flower seeds are four for a dollar and sometimes they are a dollar. We are in the US, near Washington DC

[@zakirahtheniqabi]

@@sarakhaldi9767 at my dollar store its a dollar, definitely not a good deal

[@catb8661]

Aldi is not in all states.

[@silentanarchy1858]

Aldi is amazing 😉

[@jullietgeorge9653]

🤦‍♀️😄

[@tonydinozzoNCIS]

I normally love all the CMS videos, but this one was a bit eh to me. Some of the dollar store plastic organizers are garbage, but a lot of them work perfect. Drawer organizers are great, the plastic bins are great for under the sink or pantry storage, and some of the bigger bins work well to organize in drawers and cabinets. The measuring cups are great and 1/5 of the price bed bath and beyond or even target and they all do the same purpose. Just because something is "brand name", doesn't mean it's better than a lesser known name product. The home decor is great for seasonal items and if you're someone who wants to change up your space often. Of course you're going to promote your own product (it's your channel and you can absolutely do that) but pledge and a dollar store cloth removes the dust and that's all i need

[@marissasharp9892]

liukin fan I totally agree with you. I was disappointed with this. Some of us have an extremely tight budgets and can't buy "brand names" that supposedly "last." I have kids, so no matter what I spend, it's not going to last long. I love Dollar Tree plastic storage bins! They have good bins, too, great for storing toys. And I have some of their plastic cooking tools that have lasted me for years. And I have several good-quality microfiber cloths from there that have lasted me for years.

[@klimtkahlo]

liukin fan i

[@tonydinozzoNCIS]

Totally agree with you. I'm in school and am on a budget. I like quality and there's a reason I splurged on some items. I bought pyrex when going off to college and it was a great investment. But I could not justify buying rubbermaid or oxo measuring cups. Between the dollar store and TJ maxx or marshalls, you can find a lot of the kitchen gadget you need at a great price

[@brroookkeee]

liukin fan My favorite KZbinrs use dollar tree plastic organizers as do I and there's never an issue!

[@ihabzureiqi6621]

liukin fan hi

[@SchmidtHappensTX]

I actually bought my dog a rope toy from the Dollar Tree, and it lasted FOREVER. Then, bought a more expensive name brand toy from the grocery store, and she tore it up in just a few days. I guess some things are just hit or miss!

[@angelaponder3348]

If you have a big dog the firehose toy works great. Not from the $$ store though.

[@glynisrogers3323]

I love to get the foil trays for leftovers, especially at Thanksgiving! I can make leftover trays and send them home with everyone and not worry about getting my Tupperware back. I also use it for taking baked goods to school, cookie swaps at Christmas, or making food for sick friends. They also freeze well. They usually come in a 3-pack and have a lid which can be written on.

[@Mudskippered]

Me too; many fit in my pressure cooker, so double yay!!

[@charisma-hornum-fries]

Be careful littering it as the metal isn’t necessarily recycled in your district.

[@fournomore]

The dollar store is my go to for shoe boxes and bins for organizing!!

[@ClayPearl]

I think the dollar store is good if you're on a super tight budget or you have kids who will destroy everything, regardless of quality. For instance, I've bought my kids good quality storage bins and organization containers thinking they'll last longer and be of better quality, only to have my kids absolutely ruin them in a very short amount of time because they're kids and they just don't see the value in that kind of stuff. I've bought similar items from the dollar store that last around the same amount of time with my kids, but I didn't spend a lot of money on them, so I'm not as upset if they get ruined. I generally try to buy good quality items that I find on clearance or steep sales, but for kids who will do what they want with an item and don't care one ounce how much I spent on it, I'd rather get it from the dollar store and spend my money elsewhere.

[@sassybrownbeauty]

She doesn't have kids so I would take what she says about that topic with a grain of salt

[@LilCraftyNook]

Well, at some point they need to learn about the value of things. Maybe when they have to buy it themselves.

[@MustardSeedish]

Their magic erasers are pretty good. They don't last as long as Mr. Clean but work great for a couple of tough jobs.

[@katycheroske8612]

I love those!!

[@tonydinozzoNCIS]

what makes magic erasers work is the the melamine foam. there are a few other "ingredients" in the mr. clean one, but it's the melamine that is doing the cleaning. i agree that dollar store ones do the job because melamine breaks down when you use it and isn't mean to last like a normal sponge! there are also bulk ones on amazon that are super cheap too

[@maggie2465]

I agree...I get those all the time the clean our kid's mess when they decided they want to color all over the walls with crayons

[@MustardSeedish]

It also works great on the grime you get on the steering wheel of the car. It's also amazing to clean up tea and coffee stains off of mugs.

[@boutstacynsam]

I buy them because they work better than Mr. Clean haha... not as long lasting but for sure less elbow grease

[@CorinneStephens]

My personal philosophy with dollar store stuff is that everything has a use, even if it wasn't the intended use. Makeup containers hold EVERYTHING, they hold jewelry, they hold basically any little thing that needs a home. I have a cooling rack that I bought from the dollar store that I used shower rings to attach to a curtain and now functions as a makeshift scarf hanger (or a pants hanger, if you don't mind a little more bulk). Little metal serving trays serve as magnet boards, and a shower caddy can serve as a small organizer for that awkward nook in the closet. Really, you can find a purpose for just about anything you find at the Dollar Tree.

[@nanrodgers9740]

I LOVE Dollar Tree! My husband is on disability and I have a menial low-paying job (I'm 60and and employers are hesitant to hire someone my age). I buy my wine glasses (I love the ones with sayings), cleaning supplies, party supplies and the cute plastic tubs and bins. I use the tubs and bins to organize my cleaning cabinet, upright freezer and for potting herbs, etc.

[@vilanga]

Some of the things you get at the dollar store you find them at walmart for less!!

[@cleanmyspace]

It's true!

[@peggirl152]

Victoria Lang giant tiger is another.

[@natrulyvivacious]

Victoria Lang and Walgreens AND staples when they have a sale

[@FromDrea]

Think you should watch do it on a dime :) - a lot of what you didn't like I find is great- the Betty Crocker kitchen scissors are awesome for $1- and the small screw drivers and clips are awesome for $1. I use them often.

[@kaelaleedaley]

Oh my gosh, I love Cathrine and her family. A beautiful family and a great, personable channel x

[@liz9082]

Perhaps the title of the video is not the best. The Dollar Tree is a great option for many things.

[@TrishasCrazyLife]

Drea Wood same here

[@teeruh12]

Drea Wood OMG yes!!! Thank you for saying this! Do it on a dime gave me AMAZING ideas from the dollar store

[@minil0v338]

Omg yes I use those scissors almost daily and always have back ups. Literally so much of my kitchen is from dollar store lol cutting board glass bowls especially zip locks they have name brand ones.. tupaware containers are great to! I buy a lot of craft stuff for my son also and candles for the house. You can't even tell it's from dollar tree and holds up well. I get books from there and sometimes if the expiration date is approaching you can get name brand medicine like Tylenol and Excedrin there! I had my son at 16 and work 2 jobs so money is tight I love dollar tree!

[@Mamame4]

I love to get some of the home decor items because I can change them up inexpensively! Oh and the picture frames are awesome because while they are cheap plastic, they hold up pretty well and some of them look SO great! Their calendars are great too - so cute!! Organizational bins are GREAT at the dollar store too!

[@raggedyann4372]

Ann Snider I love the dollar tree store, lots of good bargains if you watch what you buy.

[@britbuscus]

I legit buy clothes from the dollar store (family dollar) and they last longer than my clothes I got at frikkin Maurice's! So maybe some more expensive items are better but the clothes are indestructible 😂😏

[@AlexLitteral]

I always buy napkins from the Dollar Store because I can get different colors and they always carry seasonal designs.

[@judysrose]

I'll buy greeting cards, gift bags, tissue paper, and plastic containers for things I end up gifting (i.e. cookies/brownies) at the holidays. NEVER buy batteries from the dollar store. That's an absolute waste.

[@IdahoTricia]

I've never had any problems with batteries from the Dollar Tree.

[@francaromano4821]

Judy's Rose Batteries for remotes are ok; I never had a problem.

[@kristiboylan4547]

This is actually ONE of a handful of items I will not buy there. Their sizing is just off enough to not work in certain items. I replaced batteries that were getting low with these new ones and they didn't work at all. I replaced them with a name brand new set and it worked again. My husband said they can be just a fraction of a cm off in sizing and it won't make the necessary contact with the item.

[@boutstacynsam]

Judy's Rose batteries are good for small items.. i use them in the remotes, computer mouse, clocks... seem to last at least a year.

[@neekahgreen5365]

their batteries are great in remotes and scales. they last forever!!!!

[@ErinLizabeth1]

I buy batteries at the dollar store, pregnancy tests, some seasonal decor, and party items like vases, battery operated candles and table cloths.

[@octoberj1289]

I kinda disagree. I luv the dollar store for most things she said not to get. lol lol ah well to each his own

[@chibiktsn3]

My mom swears by dollar store cards and several of my relatives have followed her lead. While they don't always have the best variety, you can always find one for .50-$1 to convey what you need to, and write something more heartfelt inside. There's no sense in spending $5 on something someone will read for 10 seconds when you can spend $1. Personally, I either make my cards or go dollar store. It just makes sense!

[@andreakostusyk6371]

I really appreciate how you advocate for re-using things. We come from such a consumer and entitled mindset. Thanks for being a wise consumer!

[@akivi622]

I love your videos, and I know the intention was good on this video, but I agree with many others, it just came across wrong. The comment you posted misses the point as well. Instead of commenting that the point of the video wasn't meant to be classist or judgemental, you should try and understand where people are coming from and the IMPACT of this video, not the intent. Just because the intent is good, doesn't mean the result is good. I think it would be good of you to look through some of the comments and try to understand how this video came across instead of dismissing it.

[@chessylatendresse941]

I’m 75, widow & single. Dollar Tree is ideal place to shop.

[@hisslayleader]

I am a preschool teacher and I just love the teaching supplies. boarders, bulletin board items, permanent markers, some of the art supplies, the list is endless. They last for several years and are very easy to replace. I LOVE my DOLLAR STORE.

[@annagev2171]

THOMAS E Meyer Jr ditto - I teach high school math and science and I regularly buy scissors, pencils, glue and more at Dollarama

[@k.g.1698]

As a homeschool mom we get a lot of our supplies at dollar tree! Great fun erasers and stickers!

[@mariasantos-zb4fy]

Guys you are discussing for nothing, learning the good and forget what you do not agree. She didn't say you do not buy at Dollar Store, she just do not like a lot of things from there, but if you and me like just go ahead and buy whatever you want and that is it, for God sake!

[@RiaRobi]

Really, you're a teacher and you don't know how to spell border? The word you used describes someone living in your house.

[@tatya8044]

@@RiaRobi Yeah because I am sure your predictive text never made you look silly... lol

[@glitterchiglam2855]

What surprises me about this video is how much negativity is mentioned in regards to most of the things one would find at a dollar store. I buy a lot of the "Never Buy" items on your list with no issues whatsoever. I like good quality and high end stuff like anyone and do buy them! However, when it comes to saving money on everyday items - I use the dollar store ones. If you have ever read the book "don't leave the cosmetics counter without me" the author advocates on not spending money on items just for their name or packaging. Saying something is "Icky" is a bit condescending. I generally like your videos - this one -not so much.

[@erlabeausang446]

Poopy diaper bags and art & craft supplies I always get at the Dollar store. But my favorite are the organizing bins and baskets. You'll find them all over my house and some I've had for years. They are perfect for my fridge and freezer and all the kids toys too

[@g.g.2102]

So pretty much, don't buy anything there. 😂😂😂

[@catherinehatt1224]

I work at a popular dollar store. I watch the items as they are being placed on the shelves. I`m alright with cleaning supplies and crafts. What I watch are the food stuffs. I read and look for country of origin. Some countries I trust more than others. I will not buy items that are made in China. I do not know about the pesticides that they may have used on the food or what conditions the food was packaged under. If it does not state what country it came from it`s a no go in my cart. I listen to what our customers are saying about the products and will try something if they are having a positive result. Like anything in life you are the one with the buying power and you vote with your dollars.

[@missa9146]

Teacher classroom decor! I'm a new teacher and I find that $1.25/ea compared to $10+ is much better.

[@ditavee]

I feel like there was good intent here, but it was let down by a lack of clear reasonings, which made it feel a bit contradictory and a little hypocritical. Hear me out first, I'm not 'hating', just doing what you did here and giving a point of view... Your message about plastic containers was spot on, plastic is a minefield for pollution and waste, glass is significantly better. You actually gave these two messages but in totally different parts of the video and not linked in anyway - I feel linking the two would have been a much more clear message that a lot of people could get on board with e.g. "avoid the plastics if you can, have a look at their glass options instead". You also go from the environmentally friendly plastic commentary, to advising you should buy all your cheap disposable party stuff there, actively encouraging plastic and paper disposal, It felt like you were reaching to find something that was OK to buy. You talk about wanting to know what's going on your body and not liking the ingredients, but say rawhide pet toys or basic foodstuffs are ok. Actually the same goes for these, you don't know how things are treated or what fillers are used, so really you're just as in the dark with those products... Read the ingredients and if you don't like what you see, don't buy it is a much better message. There's sweeping blanket statements about utensils and tools, yet your own video inserts show some pretty good quality brands (Rubbermaid), and you've shown videos in the past that talk about how great xyz item was, that you advised to steer clear from here (bins I believe). Target those commments to the tools you've used, don't denounce everything, it makes me start to distrust your previous videos - and trust me I've been with you for years as a viewer so that sucks. Respect throughout the video (not just a bit at the end) for other people's circumstances would have made a big difference. And yes, sorry but there was at least one very clearly snobby line - "who wants to decorate their house with dollar store stuff" - well, maybe someone who can't afford otherwise or who has totally different taste to you and genuinely likes it, is who. Replacing that comment with something about considering clutter or only buying it if you really like it (which is what I think you were trying to say) would have been so much nicer. Reading your responses to the comments below, I feel like you're not catching the points they're trying to get across. You're responding defensively (but not absorbing), and upvoting those supporting you. Maybe I've missed a comment or two (I only browsed through I admit), but I don't see anything that really shows you're considering your subscribers opinions. You've recognised it's polarising but don't seem to get why. Your pinned post doesn't reflect that greatly on you for this reason. Just my opinion here.

[@deannabarnes609]

De Ville well put constructive criticism...I do hope she listens and takes away the lessons. I have been a fan for a while and just checked out her book from the library two days past...because, like many other things, I cannot afford to purchase her book.

[@c.a.m.4958]

Buy baskets for de cluttering.....

[@brandibrinks1843]

Thank you. You made good comments about de cluttering and considering the environment when shopping. But that has nothing to do with the dollar store in particular, but applies to shopping anywhere.

[@mayradayful]

I really liked your comment, as Deanna says is very constructive, I learned something today from your comment. Thank you for your kindness and respect while giving constructive criticism

[@roxannareynolds5951]

Geez! you worte a book!

[@kayleymeredith8270]

You're worried about a cat toy breaking but totally cool with sketchily cheap rawhide?!??

[@jacquelineleblanc3640]

Kayley Hoyt raw hide is not good for your pet no matter the price .. it is a by product of leather not food !

[@getyasum24]

..I never give my pets anything made from China/Mexico, ever. Their regulations are slim. Mainly stick with USA made products.

[@angelmidknight3119]

Dude. I'm from Mexico and we have very good quality products and we do have strict quality laws. Your racism is showing.

[@getyasum24]

@@angelmidknight3119 I know some products are quality-made, but I still wouldn't trust anything pet edible. It's not racist, it's a fact. The water there isn't even safe to drink. Been to many different parts of Mexico several times!

[@raecrothers1420]

get ya Sum24 I live in Mexico and let me tell you, the standards here are way higher than in the US. They are much more comparable to European standards. So our food doesn’t have all the gross additives that US food has. We also don’t get the sketchy crappy pet food from China that always shows up on my Facebook as a warning when I mention that I bought whatever for my dog. There is a very strong consumer protection agency here.

[@daniellemills6967]

Baking soda is less than a dollar at the regular grocery store!!

[@classicrocklover5615]

And sometimes for a larger box

[@marybethfrain7165]

Danielle Mills plus....it has a newer expiration date ....

[@beccaplans]

I love the oxy cleaner they sell. I removed ice melter off our sidewalk with it and scrubbed with paper towels and voila! Gone!

[@lynnsnyder1544]

You have to be a smart consumer. Know the price points at other stores, check ingredients and expiration dates. There are a lot of name brand items and you can use coupons! I buy my Sunday paper there (for the coupons) and it's $1-1.25 cheaper there than other places. I love their cards and gift wrap/ bags!

[@earllannum9613]

"Awesome" is an awesome product as a spray, It cleans well everything but glass.

[@marysmith9843]

I love the arm and hammer carpet cleaner/deodorizer. That's one of my favorite things a love buying from the dollar store.

[@lisas.1009]

Yes I've used that good stuff.

[@JayNizzy]

I understand the concern about some of the stuff being cheaper and flimsy but like a lot of others said, just examine the item before you purchase it. For example, I bought a plastic cooking spoon and it snapped in half the first time I used it, meanwhile I bought a knife 6 years ago and it's still going strong with no sharpening and no rust. Just a side note...the only thing that concerns me about the children's toys is the small pieces. Otherwise...children break toys. It doesn't matter if you paid $40 for a Toys 'r Us toy or $1 at Dollar Tree, there's a 50/50 shot the toy is gonna end up in a couple pieces scattered on the ground.

[@kclark1242]

Sounds like I'm not alone in disagreeing with you in this video. I've gotten pet toys and treats from dollar tree and I know enough about animals to know if they're safe (unlike raw hides, which aren't safe.) I use their microfiber cloths as reusable swifter pads and have had great success. Their wall art and picture frames are great. I'm not going to list everything because I disagree with just about every thing you said not to buy. As a graduate student, I can't always afford to spend $10 on one thing. Sorry, this video was just a miss for me.

[@its_pouring_reign5422]

KClark They have AWESOME name brand dog treats! I’ll keep buying them as long as I can.

[@undercoverastrology8889]

I use their microfiber wash clothes (4 per pack) as disposable washcloths while traveling. The texture of them make you feel really clean and then you just toss the cloth in the bin and go on with your day. Some may think that is wasteful but whatever.

[@lisas.1009]

They should be always checking on ingredients list.

[@Jazzykatt23]

KClark Don’t buy any pet food or treats that are made in China. Most pet foods or treats from the dollar store are horrible for pets.

[@AwesomeMan2696]

I'm not sure buying dog treats from the dollar store is a good idea, I mean if you look at the ingredients its complete junk. I don't want that going into my dog's stomach.. causing them diarrhea, indigestion, or an expensive ER visit. As far as toys most dollar tree toys for dogs are cheap, but I've found a couple tug of war ones my dog really likes that aren't bad quality.

[@kathierouse5306]

I love LA's Totally Awesome Stain Remover and Cleaner! And I love that it's available there for cheap! You can get a bottle of Awesome at Dollar General for $2, or buy 2 bottles for the same amount at Dollar Tree. What a deal!! 😊😎🤗

[@bridgetsanders2017]

Love this product

[@Smlisley]

She's in Toronto. The Dollar store here is not as good as the Dollar Tree.

[@TheDaniAct]

I love to buy my stationery supplies at the dollar store. The little plastic sticky tab dividers are the absolute best! You can find packs at staples of 12-24 for $6-7 and these are $1 for 48!!! They also have good post it notes and mini spiral notebooks. I use these for my job and since I'm a freelancer I will save the money where I can.

[@abigailashley5855]

If I had a dollar for everytime she said Dollar Store I'd never have to shop at the Dollar Store again.

[@cleanmyspace]

Dollar store!

[@brinapeanut]

I really disagree with some of these. Like everywhere, the Dollar Store has some good things and some not-so-good things. Instead of discounting it because it was $1, just use critical thinking skills! Of course a flimsy spatula is going to suck, but I've seen flimsy spatulas in almost every store I look. But sometimes people can't save up to buy nicer items, so cheaper utensils will have to do. As long as someone uses their brain, the Dollar Store can be an awesome place to shop! I get all of my personal care items from the dollar store. A lot of it is name brand and I can beat a shampoo for $3. Especially since my Dollar General lets me load TONS of coupons onto an app that I just scan once at checkout and I'm done.

[@tavern2468]

Soooooo we should spend more money on a toy that they'll lose interest in anyway? Neat !

[@angelaponder3348]

I think she meant to say not to buy a toy that will the child will loose interest in right away. Wait and save a bit of money and buy something the child will play with longer. Personally I put toys in a box for a few months and then traded them out with the ones the kids were getting tired with. Worked great.

[@Msmmmorales]

tavern2468 You're are so right!

[@vickibittnerschlottman5041]

I was SO glad to hear that u hate waste and are concerned about the environment! Most of the de-cluttering videos concentrate on throwing everything away. Those videos are not only worthless to me, but also enrage me. Earth is our home and too many are destroying it. Thank you for not being that way! Your videos are gold!

[@Irlimzm]

Helpful reminder!!! Thanks girl!! My go to product has to be Fabuloso to Mop the house the smell is everything!! 😍😩

[@nancyneyedly4587]

I LOVE Fabuloso! Used it when I lived in the states, it does smell amazing. The lavender one was my fave. I miss it, don't think they sell it where I live now.

[@angelagflorida6943]

I have no problem with someone sharing their thoughts, opinions, and experiences about the Dollar Store. I think she had great reasons for backing up her points.....whether I agreed or not!! This made me think about some things that I usually buy and what to consider in the future. One thing I LOVE to get there are those 2-3 packs of plastic containers that (I believe) are sold as soap holders (?). They are small, rectangular, and have locking sides. They are perfect for students to put all their crayons in!! I used them last year and not one student lost their crayons or had them all over the inside of their desk. I use a lot of their colored plastic baskets/bins for my classroom. I'm not going to buy more expensive ones for that purpose. But for my home, not so much. Desk drawer organizers, ice cube trays for my earrings in a drawer, etc.....yes. Gift bags and tissue...YES! Pencils, pens, markers, etc....NO. They usually are not good quality and don't last long.

[@briarrose5208]

Thank you for gently encouraging people to spend a little more on products that will last rather than buying cheap throwaway ones. Better for the earth, and actually more cost-effective in the long run. I buy wine glasses, gift bags, party supplies note pads, drawer organizers, basic cleaning products at the dollar store. I never buy makeup, skin care, pens, markers, crayons, kitchen tools, batteries or food. All based on experience with pens that skip or leak, markers that dry out, kitchen utensils that melt, food from countries that have questionable standards, makeup that irritates, moisturizers that don't, tools that break, batteries that don't last. I'm not a snob. I'm very frugal. I don't get all the negative reactions to this vid. And I like Melissa's kitchen 🤗

[@lovelylife4233]

First of all... I love your cleaning videos . I would suggest how ever to stick to those exclusively. There are lots of people my self included “ single mom “ who need to be very frugal and save money . I use the Walmart microfiber towels they are two for a dollar and they work great . Lots of us would love to buy quality but can’t. There are products that are better in bulk but you need to understand lots of people are on a budget . The vinegar at the dollar store is not all vinegar “ label girl “. Put yourself in the less fortunate persons shoes.

[@bonesonstones1]

Wow you're bitchy

[@wwashington270]

👍

[@TheNerdshire]

YES!!

[@deoninalaxa1196]

Best comment

[@RockinDaBoombox]

I think a lot of people missed Melissa’s point of this video. I’m on disability as well and as a longtime Dollar Tree shopper, everything she said was correct. She didn’t say don’t shop or buy anything there. I highly suggest people re-watch the video.

[@LilCraftyNook]

I too have felt that cleaning products are best to buy at the Dollar Store. Clean is clean! They do a great job!!

[@thefrugalcrafter]

I just got some beautiful cobalt blue drinking classes at my local dollar tree. I had no seen that color in ages and I bought the 8 they had in stock, I think they might have been an oddball second or something because I never saw them before or after. Our dollar tree also had 2 packs of 60 watt LED light bulbs that are crazy expensive at Lowes. I bought one pack to test them and they were clean white bright light so I went back for more. The LED bulbs last longer than CFLs and use less electricity. I think that product might have been co sponsored by Efficiency Maine as there is a limit to how many you could buy. I usually make my own cleaners rather than buying toxic things but out local DT has Lime away which is great to use on hard water stains and a name brand. I have also used their oxygen cleaner and concentrated lysol floor cleaner because sometimes the all natural stuff doesn't cut it and I like the lemon or lavender scent. I get mailing supplies there so I don;t have to keep a bulk stash on hand when I need to mail something. Thick hair ties and padded hairbrushes are a great buy too. I avoid yoys but the puzzles were wonderful when my kids were small and so were coloring books (but the crayons stink) bandaids and name brand toothpaste are also good buys. The all natural trail mix and snacks are great for road trips too. If you are smart you can make wise purchases of quality items and avoid the wasteful stuff. Just remember it's not a bargain if you aren't going to use it:)

[@AngiesDoingIt]

One Christmas I did not have money after the rent was paid. So my son had twenty presents under the tree, (thanks to Dollar Store)so it looked like Santa thought he was a good boy.

[@maryrenaud6732]

When other stores were out of emergency supplies ahead if hurricane Irma here in south Florida, I was able to get quite a few canned foods, can opener, candles, sterno, aluminum pans and cooling racks to improvise a camp stove. We made hot water, coffee, and heated canned chili and soup when the power was down for 4 days. Paper plates, napkins, hand sanitizer, hand soap, and baby wipes. In the end, dollar store items allowed us to have a better ability to function and no price gouging either...

[@nancyrendell7677]

I just bought some of the cobalt glasses as well. Have you washed yours in the dishwasher and how did they do?

[@thefrugalcrafter]

they washedfine in the dishwasher:)

[@nancyrendell7677]

Thanks. I had bought some "cobalt" canisters several years ago and they looked so nice on my kitchen counter. A couple of months later, after using them, pulling them towards me and then pushing them back in line, I was upset to see that it was cobalt PAINT rather than true cobalt glass. So, I've been leery of purchasing any cobalt since. Naturally, at $1 each I was worried that they not be true cobalt glass. WOW what a great deal!

[@Dokas80s]

I buy gloves from the dollar store, the ones you wear when cleaning something nasty or dealing with chemicals.

[@anitasmith7764]

Our dollar stores have a ton of cute stuff I would love to have in my house. Alot of it is last years namebrand decorative stuff, but completely cute.

[@zoeclearwater]

The Betty Crocker line at the dollar store is amazing.

[@Claustrophobic_turtle]

The dollar store is a teacher's best friend

[@erikalaird6660]

Yes! Because we have to buy things for our students!

[@kar8abun]

PTA too. 😁

[@NicoleneOReilly]

Yes! I have a dedicated Dollar Tree list on Google Keep.

[@britnnydomingues5386]

She's obviously never been really broke lol.

[@Mudskippered]

Because she does not buy EVERYTHING from the dollar tree, which is a sure way to stay broke. Some deals are good, some are not.

[@angelaponder3348]

@@Mudskippered That is funny. People aren't broke because they shop at the $$ store.

[@biteofdog]

@@angelaponder3348 Some folks are broke because they don't know how to manage money.

[@831mrscardoso]

@@biteofdog Not necessarily true. It depends on where you live. It's getting more and more expensive to live in certain states in the United States. If your job hardly ever gives out raises or promotions you're stuck. Rent goes up every year, price for utilities go up, if you have student loans your trying to pay, car insurance and dmv registration fees, health insurance, and ya gotta love unexpected emergency visits to the ER if something should happen on a weekend/at night/on a holiday. It all adds up which makes Dollar Stores a life saver for most ppl.

[@mariepena1533]

Muds Kipper is

[@tinawenaQQ]

What?! Dollar store stuff is cheap?! “Brand name” is probably better?! NO WAY! 🙄

[@sirenofsound]

My favorite cleaning items from the dollar store are: Palmolive dish liquid in Blueberry Almond, Arm & Hammer pet odor baking soda for the carpet, and CLEANING WIPES of all kinds! (And thanks to CMS, I know the difference between cleaning wipes and disinfecting wipes!)

[@theresawestphal2055]

The dollar store by my house sells the aluminum pans 4 for a $1 cheaper than anywhere I've seen. And they're exactly the same sturdiness as the ones they sell for $3+ for one in the supermarket.

[@nancyhillyer8359]

I’d never buy tools for home repair at dollar store. But, I do buy things like organizers items (baskets) and things like paper bags, filters, etc.

[@brewer921]

My favorite things at the dollar store -- Candy bars. Buy a big Kit Kat, for example. It would $1.50 at the grocery store, $2 at the drug store, $5 at the movies. Put it in your coat pocket, that's your movie snack. -- Any present related stuff. Gift bags, bows, etc. I would rather spend my money on the actual gift. -- Thank you notes. A box of 10 blank ones for $1. The design on the front is good enough. Doesn't have to be high-end art. -- She is right about the toys. But as a preschool teacher, I like the off-brand Nerf balls. They will be destroyed soon enough. And the Crayola crayons are name brand. Cheaper than Target and even Walmart. -- Like she said, glassware is glassware. Use them as regular glasses. Put marbles in them, put flowers in them, put them on your mantle, put toothbrushes, use them in beach house rental, which you might be decorating on budget. You might spend 10 or 20 times the amount for the same thing at Pottery Barn.

[@stagpie6449]

Fun fact, most cinemas make zero money besides concessions. If you sneak food into your cinema instead of actually supporting it, you kinda don't deserve to have one. Unless you're crazy broke ofc.

[@TheGoldProject]

I purchase party supplies, clear plastic gift bags, bandages, coloring books, water bottles for my daughter's cheer practice (if she loses them, then I only spent a $1.00), and some plastic storage for my kitchen.

[@c.a.m.4958]

The color books are awesome. A must have at grandma's house.

[@budoneof15]

I also like the serving spoons when taking a dish to a party. I don't mind leaving it there.

[@thejourney1369]

budoneof15 that's a good idea!

[@thesomedayhomestead8908]

The freeze dried fruit and pea's. They are great sizes, healthier snack, and taste freaking great! In my area its hard to find freeze dried or dehydrated foods that are good but reasonably priced

[@kahnaemery7767]

I bought two 3-D puzzles to give as a gift for a girl and a boy (from Dollar Store), and their mother said they spent hours having fun putting them together. That was in California years ago and now I see the puzzles in other stores. Our Dollar Tree in Rathdrum Idaho is kept clean and well-stocked; I feel proud of it.

[@NWHomesteader]

Research microfiber pollution before buying any microfiber - it is becoming a very serious problem...

[@shirleycastle5170]

Canned veggies are cheaper at Wal-Mart and Super Store . I love buying chocolate bars or bag candy before going to the movies which are way way cheaper.

[@terrycrane6468]

canned veggies have no nutrition and tons of salt.

[@shirleycastle5170]

terry crane You are so right. Fresh is always best

[@thejourney1369]

(Jen) because they either don't have the freezer space or prefer the taste of canned. I prefer canned.

[@nora_nayeli]

I don't know now but when I had moved out from home at 18 I would always buy candy at the Dollar tree if I was going to the movies because they sold the same exact products at the Dollar tree for a $1 when at AMC that same candy would cost $3-4.

[@DavidHernandez-oc1oz]

Agree with the vast majority of your comment except the "tiny bit" of salt statement. If that were true, they'd be labelled "low salt/sodium" (unless they are "no salt added varieties")

[@thedunavants5673]

I love your advice on sustainability! We are passionate about learning to live more sustainable.

[@juliannadipalermo970]

I never buy food and always buy glitter and pens and craft stuff.

[@tooblessedtobestressed9715]

LA's Totally Awesome degreaser and heavy duty cleaner is my all-time favourite cleaner from Dollar Tree (I'm just east of Oshawa). I've also recently discovered the laundry stain pretreated from the same line. I have liked everything I have tried from the LA's Totally Awesome line..

[@adrianacanales5924]

Too Blessed To Be Stressed I love Awesome products!!

[@jazzyfizzle7975]

LA's totally awesome timber floor polish is amazing. I prefer it to the $50 hardware store brand I used to use.

[@tooblessedtobestressed9715]

I live near Melissa Maker in the Greater Toronto area. We don't have that floor cleaner at Dollar Tree here. I really, really like Method Wood Floor Cleaner but I know I would like LA Totally Awesome better even if for price alone if they work identical. I'll have to request it at my local locations!

[@tooblessedtobestressed9715]

Jazzy Fizzle - I lied... I just looked it up on Google Images. I saw that the other day at Dollar Tree and said "That must be their version of Fabuloso." (Which we also don't have in Canada but I've seen on KZbin LOL)

[@vanessathomas6486]

LOVE the LA's Totally Awesome Cleaner for $1 and their other products are $2--they work great and very reasonable!

[@RAE.ofSunshine]

the dollar store helped me out so much for my first apt & first few years on my own . this video hurts my feelings. lol

[@nicolepickering4031]

In my apartment in college all of the decorations my roommates and I put up came from the dollar store. It was so homey and cute! I think that when you are starting out the dollar store can be a huge help. No shame in that :)

[@its_pouring_reign5422]

Nicole Pickering...you had money for decorations?! 😏Lol... yep, the struggle is real and the dollar store is awesome!💯

[@nicolepickering4031]

Haha valid question Jennifer Price! I did yup. Lots of dollar tree fake flowers

[@me1234540]

Chelsea she is stupid, basically she doesn't like the dollar stores, good for her if she does a lot of money to spend on "high quality and brand name products"... I always find very good products here

[@aliceranger8681]

I must disagree with you. I have bought Betty Cocker kitchen utilities and found them to be very good quality. My spoons did not come apart. A cookie sheet I bought still looks like new and works great after a year. I think I will go back and get a couple more, I could go on, but I think you get the message. The Dollar Tree has saved me so much money and the quality is good to great. So why are you doing such a hatchet job on dollar stores? People still should judge for themselves.

[@reneekerner9326]

alice ranger I too have bought some very good Betty Crocker products.

[@Watercandle0219]

alice ranger I agree some people still think that name brand or non dollar tree items means better quality because they have no concept of Private Label

[@brooklynbaby1987]

I agree. I don’t know about the other brands of kitchen utensils but I’ve always had good results with the Betty Crocker utensils.

[@janinelew2483]

My red BC rubber spatula and measuring spoons are my favorite, even though I have more expensive ones. I never had trouble with them.

[@drasco61084]

I didn't finish the video thinking "obey her, don't judge for yourself" ..... lol

[@Munky332]

2 favorite things from a specific dollar store here called "the dollar tree" == Foam board (i use it to build RC planes, and other projects). and "La's Totally Awesome" all purpose cleaner. Batteries are also pretty good depending on their usage. what I hate: most electronics. ie; wife tends to cheap out and buy crappy USB chargers from the dollar store. the cables always break after like a week of mild use, they make awful buzzing noises like they're about to catch on fire, or in the case of the one she currently uses in her car to charge her phone; it shorts itself out and causes the FM radio to lose most of its signal. if she spent all of like 3$ more, and maybe another 10 minute drive to walmart even, she'd have an average quality charger that would have worked for a couple years; or hell, she could have waited 2 days for one on amazon prime for probably the same price as the dollar store one as an add-on to something else we ordered, but nope. live and learn I guess.

[@cindyewyatt]

YES! I have been dollar store shopping since they were dime stores and shop regularly at some & occasionally at others but always with specific cautions about SAFETY! Many DS things are cheaper because they don't meet strict safety standards for toxins (cat food) or mechanics (child gates/car seats.) I am completely poor so I am not being snobby when I say that I will not buy most of the same things she talks about, ESPECIALLY PET products! I am just being aware that most of this cheap, plastic crap they sell at DS is stuff I lived very comfortably without before trade laws changed in the 90s. It is pollution dressed up as convenience.

[@tarotundercandlelite]

I have gotten brand name pens and highlighters at the dollar store and they work great, as well as the white out tape.

[@sidneyboo9704]

I love how you tackle the whole quality and being wasteful. We definitely should stop being this disposable society.

[@lauradavenport8199]

I’ve seen several videos like this and I find it funny how some of the items you say not to buy others say you should buy. I think it’s really all about personal preference and what people want to accomplish with their purpose. People know that when they are only spending a dollar on something they are not to expect too much when it comes to quality so I think that’s the best advice you can give someone. Just be aware that some items are not going to last very long

[@waitingforspring317]

I buy oxygen cleaner, handiwipes (I use in place of paper towels to clean counters and rewash), toilet bowl brushes, and greeting cards at Dollar Tree.

[@stephanieschweigert3659]

Totally agree with the plastic but not much else. Don't love the tone of video. As a parent I have found amazing wooden puzzles and other cool items. Not a fan.

[@angelwitt9400]

LAS Totally Awesome Cleaner from Dollar Tree is amazing on cleaning hard cleaning jobs. I use it on stuff like stained carpets, house siding, Outside concrete patios, Outside grills, car upholstery, car tires, greasy hand tools, microfiber furniture, and yes even cleaning shoes. Works great on my sons football cleats.So many great uses for LAS Totally Awesome and tons of you tube videos on different uses to use it on, plus it’s only $1.00 at the dollar tree.

[@colleentaylormccubbin5219]

As with personal items, toys and pet items may also have unsafe ingredients or construction. For example, China sometimes melamine to their products. I wouldn't want my dog or kid chewing on that.

[@ggermc]

Books for the kids. Colouring or activity books, readers or game books. You can get favourites there. Name brand but maybe a little outdated. We bought a full series of minecraft gaming books at Costco for about 10$ each only to find them a few months later for 3$ each at our local dollarama. Video game characters, sky landers, Lego dimensions, Disney infinity. If you already have the console and the game this is a less expensive way to add to your player character collection. 3-4$ instead of 10-20$ a piece. You just have to look and do it without the kids in tow. Save the items for gifts or for rainy days. Love this video and agree with you. :)

[@paulsharon7521]

I find the kitchen shears (scissors) are the best. They do as well as any I have gotten for a lot more money. In fact I just bought 6 pairs to have in case the dollar store here decides not to carry them in the future.

[@rosebud64rg]

UR RIGHT! That’s TRUE I ONLY BUY CERTAIN PRODUCTS !!

[@sportluver98]

I decorated and organized my whole room with items from dollar general and the thrift store I work at and it looks great. Dollar general has modern and cute home decor ... idk what dollar store you go to

[@itsrachelleeann]

I agree with almost all of this except for the toys! I love to have some inexpensive toys on hand for the kids. There are always certain situations where a child will be interested in a toy for 30 minutes then never want to play with it again, whether it's a dollar store toy or a nicer more expensive toy. So if I need something new and different to just keep my kids busy for a bit, like at the dr. office or church or a longer car ride, dollar store toys always do the trick! Then I'll just get rid of them after they have served their purpose!

[@anneliese4654]

Real Life Mom yeah that's not wasteful at all

[@itsrachelleeann]

Anneliese Fisher oh it totally is! I'm not going to argue against that! But you have to do what you have to do in order to keep your sanity sometimes!

[@pearlbeere1946]

Since most items are made in CHINA, I would steer away fm things that go in the mouth including toys for toddlers! China fm China may have LEAD in the glaze. And the plastic items, godonlyknows what kind of plastics, etc are in the toys, drinkware, straws and on and on. I shop at the $Tree and love to buy cards, faux flowers, plastic bins, glassware, etc

[@IceXiao]

The more expensive brand name stuffs are made in China too though.

[@kyragd2009]

Starting a cleaning business! I love your tips. Thanks for sharing

[@sisaofrost]

the dollar store is a great place to buy all your camping kitchen gear. Everything is compact, cheap and you don't care if it get's lost or wet.

[@craftwhimsy4776]

I buy the off brand magic eraser sponges and microfiber cleaning cloths, both of which work really well. I think you could have been fairer in the video. While you do make a valid point about mindless consumerism, I believe your audience is already at least partially aware of it by virtue of watching your channel devoted to cleaning and maintaining what they already own. You also cross signals when you extoll the virtues of your "superior" but more expensive product over a cheaper product that may already be working well for them and dissuading some throw away products while okaying other throw away products, all the while having struck an anti consumption tone.

[@stonedfurry3435]

"The string started unravelling so i thought my cat would choke on it "..... Do u not realize a cats favorite toy is string....

[@Msmmmorales]

LOL!!!

[@jennifersamples2518]

STONED FURRY Do you not realize that just because they love it doesn’t mean that it’s good for them? Do you know how many vets have removed strings from cats stomachs to the tune of hundreds and hundreds of dollars in vet bills? Maybe you’re just an irresponsible pet owner

[@crybebebunny]

Name brand bandages different sizes, candy and gum, floss picks (for children and adults), reading glasses, cleaning wet wipes, coloring books, folio paper, parcialmente paper, Rubbermaid containera, any and all sizes of zip-type bags, some school supplies, bubble solution and other if found (name brand soaps and snacks).

[@laurenann4693]

CLOTHING HANGERS!! The dollar store’s hangers are AMAZING quality

[@brieb9750]

So would two dollar store microfiber cloths equal one of yours plus save me about $30?? There's is 24g and yours is double that...

[@rosangha2022]

Frankly the grams per square meter of her microfiber towels are probably not that great. If you want great microfiber, look into those used for automotive detailing. They're much better than hers since they're meant to pick up very difficult substances like dried waxes and handle vehicle paint finishes without leaving swirl marks. Not to mention they'd be a crapload cheaper than hers.

[@MamiOf3kids]

I never thought of that. Good idea thanks

[@conniekam1074]

As a mom myself, I totally disagree with your suggestion to avoid cheap 1 dollar toys. Cheap toys are great for traveling as kids tend to lose their stuff/toys.

[@starlightwhispers6781]

Connie Kam They may however contain toxic lead or cheap plastic none of which should be near a child's mouth. Children explore and may accidentally chew on these harmful materials

[@marissasharp9892]

Connie Kam I totally agree! My kids don't put things in their mouths because they're older. But I give them an allowance and they can spend it at Dollar Tree if they want. Good incentive. Also, they have had good-quality toys there. I remember last year they had the Webkinz stuffies...for a dollar each?!?! You bet they sold out! We also love the National Geographic books and teaching stuff (we homeschool).

[@tonydinozzoNCIS]

Webkinz first came out when I was in elementary school about 10 years ago and I remember how expensive and hard to find they were! I can't believe they're at the dollar store now

[@rosangha2022]

Don't take advice on children from someone without any, even though they've got pets

[@sham3998]

liukin fan o

[@illbnice2u2]

AWESOME Best cleaning agent leans everything grease (cuts right through it) great for bathroom and kitchen. Never never buy food at dollar store.