12 Random Dollar Tree Finds Over $1.25 That Are Worth It (And What to Skip)

Dollar Tree's sales techniques have changed over recent years, adding "Dollar Tree Plus" items that cost up to $10.

While they can no longer claim to sell every item for the same price, they can now offer steals on higher-ticket items. This strategy is ideal for savvy shoppers looking to save more on essentials, although it may not apply to all items.

We've done some digging and found which Dollar Tree finds over $1.25 are worth it and which are not.

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

Price: $5.00

Each stool measures 11.8x17x11.8 inches, and they're stackable, allowing you to customize your space. They work great for plants, but you can also use them as a table for lightweight items like a cup of coffee.

Compared to Yaheetech five-pack stools on Amazon, on sale for $59.99 from $76.59, this Dollar Tree Plus find is a total steal.

Price: $5.00

At only $5, Dollar Tree's rubber-backed door mats are a great find. Home Depot's 18x30-inch non-slip rubber doormats cost $13.98, so your budget will go further when you pick up the Dollar Tree version.

One customer shared in a review, "I needed a rug at my back door that wouldn't slide whenever it was stepped on. I ran across these on one of my DT trips. I picked one up. What a deal! For $5 I got this really sturdy rug that simply will not budge from where it's put. It looks nice too. It's been stationed at the back door for about 6 months and it's doing a fantastic job."

Price: $3.00

These 12-inch Dollar Tree tiles can save you money, especially when you need a large quantity. IKEA offers a nine-pack of interlocking tiles for $29.99, which comes out to approximately $3.30 per tile. The 33 cents difference per tile can really add up depending on how many you're using.

These interlocking tiles are perfect for a porch, patio, or balcony without committing yourself to a long-term, expensive investment in your property. You can also use them indoors to transform the look of your space.

Price: $5.00

Motion sensor lights can get expensive, but Dollar Tree Plus offers an affordable version that's well worth the buy. Plus, it has a magnetic mount, making it easy to place under your kitchen or bathroom cabinets.

With Harbor Freight selling Luminar Indoor LED Motion Sensor Lights for $9.99 and Lowe's selling a two-pack for $24.98 ($12.49 each), installing the Dollar Tree option in your home will help you light up your dark spaces without breaking your budget.

Price: $2.00

A patriotic foil balloon with stars and stripes is only $2.00, making it a frugal option since a single stars and stripes balloon costs $6.60 on Amazon.

The 18-inch balloon offers a festive feel without going overboard or overspending on supplies. When you purchase these balloons online from Dollar Tree, you can take them to a nearby location to be filled with helium.

Price: $5.00

Keeping your drinks hot or cold can get expensive if you're buying name-brand options, but Dollar Tree makes it affordable. This option is a cost-effective alternative to the pricier brands and keeps your drinks at the temperature you need.

Price: $5.00

Staying hydrated has never been easier (or more budget-friendly) with this time-stamp water bottle that keeps you motivated through the day.

It holds 64 ounces and features motivational messages alongside the timestamps to keep you on track. You can choose from various colors, such as blue or pink ombre, and transparent blue, purple, or grey.

Price: $5.00

With Crocs costing around $50 these days, these clogs from Dollar Tree are a steal. They're perfect for wearing around the yard without worrying about getting them wet, and you can wear them out and about when you need something quick to slide on.

Price: $5.00

Leggings are perfect for everyday wear, whether you're at home or running errands. You don't have to buy an expensive pair, though, with this option from Dollar Tree being high-quality and affordable.

The leggings are lined and warm, and they have many five-star reviews. One customer shared, "I bought these over a year ago. Started with 1 pair. Subsequently bought in all 3 other colors offered. Fleecy soft and warm, not bulky. Should cost more than $5! My everyday go-to. Just love them! Easy care, easy wash. LONG LASTING."

Price: $5.00

You don't have to break the bank to buy essentials like toilet paper. This 12-count pack of 2-ply double bathroom tissue only costs $5.00. The closest comparable price is at Kroger, where they have a 12-count that's $6.99.

Price: $5.00

Battery-operated string lights are a great way to brighten up your space and add a cozy element. This Dollar Tree find has 15 bulbs and spans 9.8 feet, so there's plenty to spread out. Other options are much more expensive, with Target selling a stand of 10 bulbs on sale for $47.99.

Price: $5.00

Throw blankets can get expensive if you choose the pricier options at other stores. Even with Walmart's affordable prices, a smaller blanket costs $5.58. The size difference makes the lower-priced Dollar Tree choice well worth it.

Price: $5.00

Buying a 3.5-pound bag of Gravy Train Meaty Classic Beef dry dog food for $5.00 isn't worth it when a 14-pound bag at Walmart costs just $12.88. You'd pay more buying three bags of the Dollar Tree option and get less dog food than if you'd paid more upfront at Walmart.

Price: $3.00

Buying artificial flowers from Dollar Tree might seem like a good idea, but many affordable options look better elsewhere. You can choose real flowers from Trader Joe's for only $3.99, and it's well worth paying the extra dollar. It's a better option, with the Dollar Tree faux flowers looking fake and cheap.

Price: $5.00

While other Dollar Tree entry mats are affordable and worthwhile, the printed options aren't. These mats feel thin and cheap, and the colors fade quickly, so it's not worth the lower price.

You can find higher-quality mats at Walmart for only $6.10, and they'll last longer, making the slight price difference worth it.

Price: $5.00

While this price for wireless headphones seems like a steal, it's not worth the purchase. They don't work well, with one customer commenting, "I bought these, and literally the left one keeps turning off." Other complaints revolve around the battery life, meaning you may not even be able to use them for long.

Target offers Heyday Bluetooth Wireless Earbuds for only $9.99, and you'll experience much better quality.

Dollar Tree's Plus section offers many surprising finds that are worth it, but there are also some you should skip. If you want the first pick of the Dollar Tree Plus items, you can ask your local store which days they restock so you can make it in as soon as it's out.

Find the best deals that help you withstand economic downturns by knowing what to look for on the shelves.