Dollar Tree is the go-to place for budget-conscious shoppers, offering a variety of items for just over a dollar. To help you get the most out of your shopping experience, we’ve put together 20 smart tips to maximize your savings and ensure you’re getting the best value for your money. From leveraging coupons to buying seasonal items early, these hacks will transform your Dollar Tree experience.
1. Stock up on essentials
Dollar Tree is a great place to buy everyday items like cleaning supplies, paper products, and grocery essentials.
These basic prices are often significantly lower than other stores.
Look for items like dish detergent, sponges, paper towels, and canned goods to keep your finances running smoothly without breaking the bank.
pro tips
One of ANYWHERE’s most popular all-purpose cleaners is sold at Dollar Tree and is called LA’s Totally Awesome Cleaner. For just $1.25, you get 20 ounces of this cleaner, which has rave reviews from trusted sources like The Kitchn and Cleaning Talk.com. Try it at home and save money!
2. Buy in bulk
Many Dollar Tree stores offer multi-packs of items such as snacks, canned goods, and toiletries.
Buying in bulk can save you a lot of money over time, especially when it comes to non-perishable foods.
Check the price per unit to ensure you get the best price.
See also: How to make the most of Dollar Tree’s return policy
3. Use coupons
Dollar Tree accepts manufacturer coupons that can be combined with low prices for even more savings.
Keep an eye out for coupons in newspapers, online, and in coupon apps. My friends over at The Krazy Coupon Lady have a Dollar Tree page that they keep updated with the latest offers.
Combine these with in-store sales and you can significantly reduce your total bill.
pro tips
Don’t forget about books. Several times, I bought my dad a great non-fiction history book about World War II for just $1.25. he loved them. You might not find a bestseller, but you can usually find a good book or two.
4. Buy seasonal products early.
Seasonal items such as holiday decorations, school supplies, and garden tools are in high demand and often sell out quickly.
Shopping early will ensure you get what you need before stock runs out.
Plus, you’ll have time to plan and avoid expensive last-minute purchases elsewhere.
Check out Craft Girl
My daughter is obsessed with the Crafty Girl channel on YouTube. Crafty Girl releases Doll Tree’s “Haul” video. This is perfect for the holiday season, showcasing Doll Tree’s seasonal items and providing great gift ideas and home decor tips.
5. DIY projects
Dollar Tree has a huge selection of craft supplies perfect for DIY projects.
Create personalized home decor, gifts, and party decorations at a fraction of the cost of purchasing ready-made items.
Check out our online tutorials for inspiration on how to creatively use Dollar Tree materials.
6. Check expiry date
When purchasing food, always check the expiry date to ensure freshness and longevity.
Most products are perfectly fine, but especially when it comes to fresh produce, it’s a good idea to make sure you’re getting the best value.
7. Compare sizes
Not all items at Dollar Tree have the best price per item.
Please compare the size and quantity with other stores.
In some cases, it may be more cost effective to use larger packages elsewhere. Use the calculator if necessary to determine the best purchase.
Dollar Tree never claims that buying in bulk at a discount grocery store (ALDI or Grocery Outlet Bargain Market) or Costco may be better in terms of cost per item.
SEE ALSO: Dollar Tree raises prices: Smart tips to fight back
pregnancy test
Dollar Tree’s pregnancy tests seem to have a pretty good reputation. They pass FDA standards and have the same accuracy numbers as more expensive tests. The worst thing about Dollar Tree pregnancy tests is actually finding them, as they tend to get snapped up as soon as they’re in stock.
8. Avoid impulse purchases
Dollar Tree has a lot of great items, but it’s important to stick to your shopping list.
Impulse purchases can quickly add up and destroy the savings you were aiming for.
Plan ahead and focus on what you actually need.
9. Visit weekly
Dollar Tree brings in new inventory frequently, so visiting regularly can help you find great deals before they sell out.
Weekly trips ensure we have the latest products and discounts, increasing your chances of getting the best product.
Check out our weekly online ads to find out what’s coming next.
10. Check markdown
Always check our clearance section and markdown bins for even more savings.
These areas often have overstocked and seasonal items at deep discounts.
It’s a great way to find bargains on items you need or want.
reading glasses
At Dollar Tree, you can get some pretty decent reading glasses in a variety of magnifications for just $1.50. And before you ask, they have a pretty high rating from AARP. Many drugstores, such as CVS and Rite-Aid, sell reading glasses in the $7 to $10 range that are essentially the same reading glasses you can buy at Dollar Tree for just $1.50.
11. Buy party supplies
Dollar Tree is a treasure trove of party supplies.
From balloons and streamers to plates and napkins, you’ll find everything you need to throw a great party without spending a fortune.
A wide range of choices allows you to easily adjust themes and colors.
Related Article: 22 Best Buy Products You Can Find at Dollar General
12. Save money on greeting cards and gift wrapping
Greeting cards, gift bags, and gift wrapping are expensive at other stores, but Dollar Tree offers them for just over a dollar.
From birthdays to holidays, you’ll find something for every occasion, so you can always send a heartfelt message without having to buy something expensive.
change the way you think
If your gift budget is $30 and you buy gift wrap and cards at Dollar Tree, you’ll free up nearly $10 to buy someone a more expensive gift. After all, gift wrap will tear and the card will be thrown away, so why spend a fortune on something like this?
13. Use reusable bags
Save money and the environment by bringing a reusable bag.
Some stores may offer a small discount for using your own bag, which reduces the need for plastic and is in line with environmentally friendly practices.
Related article: The best fast food ducks for Chick-fil-A, Starbucks, and Five Guys
14. Buy generic brands
Dollar Tree’s generic brands often offer the same quality as name brand products at a lower price.
Products such as cleaning products, snacks, and health and beauty aids are sold under common labels, allowing you to save big without sacrificing quality.
toilet bowl cleaner
Sure, you can buy Lysol toilet bowl cleaner for $11.89 on Amazon, or you can opt for a Dollar Tree variety called The Works Basic, which is just as effective, if not more effective.
15. Purchase a storage solution
Organizing your home doesn’t have to be expensive.
Dollar Tree offers a variety of storage bins, baskets, and containers to help organize spaces like closets, pantries, and bathrooms.
It’s an affordable way to keep your home tidy and functional.
16. Find educational supplies
Teachers and parents can find a wide variety of educational supplies at Dollar Tree.
From workbooks and flashcards to art supplies and classroom decorations, you can support learning at home or in the classroom without spending a lot of money.
My wife is a kindergarten teacher and every week she stops by the local Dollar Tree to buy inexpensive craft supplies to use in her classroom.
See also: 50+ places where teachers can get discounts
17. Buy health and beauty aids
Dollar Tree offers great savings on personal care products like shampoo, toothpaste, and deodorant.
Stock up on these essentials to keep your bathroom cabinet stocked and hygiene habits affordable.
pro tips
I have a friend who absolutely believes in Dollar Tree’s “Sensitive Tooth” toothpaste. She skipped the $10 tube of Sensodyne and is much happier with the Dollar Tree alternative, both in taste and effectiveness.
18. Check out the Dollar Tree app
Download the Dollar Tree app to stay informed about the latest sales, coupons, and promotions.
This app often has the latest information on exclusive discounts and new arrivals, which can help you plan your shopping more effectively.
19. Online shopping
If you prefer to shop from home or need to buy in bulk, Dollar Tree’s website offers convenient options.
Visit our online store for bulk purchases and exclusive online offers. This is especially useful for party supplies, seasonal supplies, and organizational supplies.
20. Seasonal Clearance
After holidays and seasonal events, Dollar Tree often offers deep discounts on unsold items.
It’s the perfect time to stock up on decorations, party supplies, and gifts for next year at affordable prices.
By implementing these strategies, you can maximize your savings and get the most out of your Dollar Tree shopping experience.
Ask our readers: Would you like to add any tips for saving money at Dollar Tree? Let us know in the comments.
Written by Kyle James
I started Rather-Be-Shopping.com in 2000 and have become a consumer expert and advocate writing about out-of-the-box ways to save money at stores like Amazon, Walmart, Target, and Costco. Ta. I’ve been featured on FOX News, Good Morning America, and The New York Times for my money-saving tips. (learn more)
