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Never Buy These 17 Items Anywhere But at Dollar General

Discover why smart shoppers swear by Dollar General for these items.

happy couple buying groceries
Updated Sept. 24, 2024
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Dollar General has a ton of low-priced items to help you save, including their special $1 aisle with unbeatable deals.

You can find plenty of essentials in this store to help you get ahead financially. Plus, everything on this list is under $10 for serious savings.

Editor’s note: Prices are subject to change and may vary by location.

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Party supplies

Courtesy of FinanceBuzz Happy Birthday plates from Dollar General

Price: $2.00

Dollar General has a ton of party supplies for every occasion, and they cost less compared to party stores.

You can get an eight-count of decorative party plates for just $2, along with other festive essentials, like banners, balloons, and more.

Plus, you can find matching items for these party decorations, so you’re saving big on some stylish pieces.

Arts and crafts supplies

Courtesy of FinanceBuzz Acrylic paint set from Dollar General

Price: $5.00

Stock up on all of your arts and crafts supplies, like this acrylic paint, for less.

You can avoid spending extra cash at Hobby Lobby when you buy paint, paintbrushes, DIY frames, and more at Dollar General. This value store offers high-quality products at a much more affordable price.

Greeting cards

Courtesy of FinanceBuzz Greeting card with puppies on the front

Price: $1.00

Greeting cards can often cost upwards of $10 these days, so buying them at Dollar General is a wise choice.

You can find cards for birthdays, anniversaries, baby showers, and more. You’ll only spend $1 per card, so you can stock up for upcoming occasions to save time and money.

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Fabric softener

Courtesy of FinanceBuzz Bottle of fabric softener from Dollar General

Price: $1.00

For just $1, you can grab a bottle of fabric softener that gives you 21 loads of fresh scents.

This smaller bottle is more affordable and easier to pour into your washer than those heavier, larger containers. Plus, you can choose from different scents, including tropical or lavender.

Water bottles

Courtesy of FinanceBuzz Pack of Dasani water bottles

Price: $5.95

Having water on hand this season is a must, and Dollar General makes it easy to stockpile this everyday essential.

A 24-pack of refreshing Dasani water costs under $6, and each bottle costs only $0.25. Buying just one bottle can cost around $2, so this is a much savvier purchase.

Trash bags

Courtesy of FinanceBuzz Box of large trash bags

Price: $1.00

This pack of trash bags is perfect in a pinch and only costs you $1.

Take these with you during your summer travels to keep your rental clean or separate your dirty laundry. Each $1 box comes with seven 30-gallon heavy-duty trash bags for any mess.

Medications

Courtesy of FinanceBuzz Box of cough medicine

Price: $1.00

Did you know you can find over-the-counter meds at Dollar General for a steal?

For just $1 per box, this store has medications for colds, fevers, body aches, and more. Plus, these have the same ingredients as name-brand medicines, but you’re spending much less.

Bath products

Courtesy of FinanceBuzz Bag of lemon-scented bath bombs

Price: $1.00

Indulge in the ultimate rest and relaxation, knowing you saved money during your shopping trip.

These bath bombs are the perfect way to unwind, and a three-pack only costs $1. Bath bombs at other retailers usually cost $5 for just one, so this is an incredible deal.

Paper towels

Courtesy of FinanceBuzz Pack of paper towels

Price: $5.95

This six-pack of large paper towels is equivalent to eight regular-sized rolls, giving you more bang for your buck.

Each roll comes with 100 two-ply sheets you can tear to choose your own size, and you’re spending less than other retailers for this bargain.

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Sink strainer

Courtesy of FinanceBuzz Green sink strainer

Price: $1.00

This handy sink strainer can save you even more money in the long run from clogging and drain backups.

Use this in your kitchen sink or shower to keep food, hair, and other small particles at bay. Plus, it’s only $1, so you can even buy a few for each drain in your home.

Pet toys

Courtesy of FinanceBuzz Bottle-shaped squeaky dog toy

Price: $5.75

Keep your pet happy and your wallet full when you shop for toys at Dollar General.

You can find everything to keep your dog or cat busy, like this squeaky toy in a fun bottle shape. There are tons of high-quality toys at affordable prices, much cheaper than PetSmart or Petco.

Air freshener

Courtesy of FinanceBuzz Clorox air freshener

Price: $1.00

This gel air freshener costs just $1 and keeps your home smelling its best. To inject a fresh scent, set it in your bathroom, living room, closet, and other spaces.

Since this deal is so cost-effective, you can easily buy multiples to set around your home to give each room its own unique aroma.

Spray cleaner

Courtesy of FinanceBuzz Bottle of window cleaner

Price: $1.00

This powerful and affordable spray will give your windows and mirrors a lovely shine. It’s much cheaper than buying cleaners at other stores, like Walmart or Target.

You can buy all of your household cleaners at Dollar General in the dollar aisle to clean countertops, floors, and any surface.

Canned goods

Courtesy of FinanceBuzz Can of chili with beans

Price: $2.00

Keep your pantry full of your favorite foods when you buy Dollar General’s own brand of goods.

This value store has various canned goods to choose from, including soups, veggies, and fruits. These canned items can save you time in the kitchen for a quick, tasty meal that won’t cost much.

Soda 6-Packs

Courtesy of FinanceBuzz Bottles of diet Pepsi

Price: $5.25

Stock up on your favorite soda brands for less, like these Diet Pepsi bottles.

Right now, you can save when you buy more — all Pepsi six-packs are three for $14. That means you can mix and match flavors, including Mountain Dew, Starry, and regular Pepsi.

Parchment paper

Courtesy of FinanceBuzz Box of parchment paper

Price: $1.00

Grab all of your baking must-haves — like this pre-cut parchment paper — to save time and money.

This pack has 12 sheets for just $1, an unbelievable deal that lets you cook and bake your favorite treats. The paper is also heat-resistant and safe to use in the microwave or oven.

Seasoning and spices

Courtesy of FinanceBuzz Container of lemon pepper seasoning

Price: $1.00

Add some zest to any recipe when you buy your spices from Dollar General.

Typically, you’re paying for name brands at other stores, but this selection of seasoning lets you save big. You can find plenty of options to liven up your dishes, like this flavorful lemon pepper.

Bottom line

jetcityimage/Adobe Dollar General Retail Location

Dollar General is a treasure trove of deals and discounts, making it easy to save more on everyday essentials.

Be on the lookout for seasonal must-haves for the summer to save on vacation items and upcoming parties.

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Author Details

Ariel Taranski

Ariel Taranski is a writer for FinanceBuzz. She has worked as a content marketer for CPAs and financial advisors, and she enjoys being frugal and money-savvy in her day-to-day life. Ariel has also worked with clients such as The Knot, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Alpha Prime, and many more in her time as a freelance writer.