Are You Really Saving a Buck at the Dollar Store?

re: Are You Really Saving a Buck at the Dollar Store?

Jake — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 21:45:31 GMT

Excellent point.

I'm currently developing a price book and I recently compared Wal-Mart to Dollar General on approximately 30 items. Wally World (I hate their practices but I hate being in debt worse, and yes I do feel a bit guilty) had DG beat on everything but toilet paper, paper towels, and candles (I use the candles while showering in my bathroom instead of leaving the light on). This list included food staples and necessary toiletries.

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re: Are You Really Saving a Buck at the Dollar Store?

Suzy Queue — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 02:41:08 GMT

I have been reading more and more about the "value" of supporting local businesses to help out our local economies and in the end our own pocket books. Here is a link to a pretty interesting article from the American Independent

Business Alliance - amiba.net/.../benefits_doing_biz_locally.pdf

Suzy

re: Are You Really Saving a Buck at the Dollar Store?

howdah — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 16:30:37 GMT

Even if the item is smaller at the dollar store it still might be the best fit. For example, I can get a small bottle of Goo Gone for $1.00. It may cost more per ounce than the same item in the supermarket, but this small bottle will last me for several years since it only takes a drop or two for most messes. The last bottle accidentally got knocked over and spilled and I was only out $1.00.

I also got a tiny bottle of clear nail polish, again probably more expensive ounce for ounce. But I only use it to stop runs in nylons and to put a drop on the screw of my glasses now and then so the lens stays in. The bottle will be too thick to use long before it is empty, and again I have only invested $1.00.

Sharon

re: Are You Really Saving a Buck at the Dollar Store?

JH in Portland — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 15:05:12 GMT

I use the Dollar Tree for certain items. They have good holiday cards, crossword books, puzzles, and kid's socks (my dog eats them so my kid's use allowance to replace since they leave them out). As you see, not a weekly visit place. The toys, food, and cleaning products are either poor quality or not a great value.

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re: Are You Really Saving a Buck at the Dollar Store?

frugal_fun — Fri, 07 Nov 2008 11:52:39 GMT

I agree with you. It amazes me that people don't factor in quality when shopping.

Truthfully, we generally do not shop at dollar stores. Because of my allergies, I need to eat "whole foods", which eliminates the food section. After the scare with Chinese toothpaste, I'd be scared to buy toiletry items or chemicals. I do love the paper section, though, which is about how much cards and bags "should" cost.

For cleaning supplies, we buy only 3 items: Simple Green in a gallon jug which can be diluted 20:1, window cleaner (also in bulk and can be diluted) and soap scum remover. I'd recommend Simple Green to anyone not into making their own cleaning supplies. Cheap, easy to dilute, safe, and used by the pros. We use it to clean toilets, floors, and everything imaginable. (Except windows and soap scum!!) *grin*

re: Are You Really Saving a Buck at the Dollar Store?

Hofmama — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 08:18:31 GMT

It always comes down to knowing your prices, doesn't it? I've heard the same complaint about warehouse clubs many times (that they seem like a bargain but aren't--although you can't beat Sam's Club Brand baby formula with a stick!)