Gone are the days when dollar stores actually had $1 prices. Inflation has changed the landscape of discount shopping, making it harder to keep more cash in your wallet. That's why we scoured Dollar Tree for the best bargains of the month.
Even though our favorite finds are all over $1.25, these popular picks are definitely worth the extra cost. From kitchenware to electronics, here are 11 Dollar Tree deals to snap up before August ends (and three to completely ignore).
Editor's note: Prices and availability are subject to change and may vary by location.
Worth it: Cutting board
Price: $1.50
Pass on plain kitchen gear and nab this adorable (and affordable) chef-themed cutting board. The square surface is perfect for chopping veggies, making a party platter, or slicing fruit for a sweet summer treat. And at $1.50, this deal is a steal.
Worth it: Men's low-cut socks
Price: $4
Keep cool this summer in these sporty socks. The low-cut design is ideal for all of your outdoor adventures and athletic activities.
Get 10 pairs of size 6-12 socks for $4 right now. A similar six-pack from Champion costs $15 at Target.
Worth it: Sugared Lemon Candle
Price: $5
Fill your home with the sweet scent of freshly squeezed lemonade.
The "dollar plus" $5 price may seem expensive for the 14-ounce jar. But compared to what you could pay elsewhere, it's a bargain. Bath & Body Works' Fresh Amalfi Lemon candle costs $24.95.
Worth It: Party paper plates
Price: $1.50
Celebrate the summer with an end-of-season soiree. These pretty pastel paper plates are perfect for outdoor events, wedding showers, anniversary parties, and more. Get 10 for $1.50.
How much can you save on this $1.25-plus item? Compare Dollar Tree's price to $2.49 (for eight in a similar style) at Michaels.
Worth it: Stainless steel tumbler
Price: $7
Warm water? No way. This 30-ounce stainless steel tumbler will keep your beverage of choice cold. That's not all. The $7 item pulls double-duty. Fill it with hot coffee or tea in the winter.
Score serious savings on this "dollar plus" pick. A 30-ounce Stanley tumbler will set you back $40 at Dicks' Sporting Goods.
Worth it: Faux flowers
Price: $1.75
Why waste money on freshly cut flowers that wither within a week?
These festive fall forever florals are new to Dollar Tree this August. Instead of a pastel palette, the store just stocked these red, yellow, and orange autumn blooms. Use the artificial stems for wreaths and other DIY crafts.
Worth it: Fisher Lightning Cable
Price: $5
Charge your phone or tablet without breaking the bank on fancy cables. This four-inch rapid-charge nylon-braided lightning-to-USB cord for iPhones, iPads, and iPods is a must-have at $5.
Don't assume you'll find a better deal online. We spotted a similar charging cable on Amazon for more than twice the price.
Worth it: Garden Collection Clay Pots
Price: $1.50
Accent your outdoor entertaining area or garden with these mini planters. The two-pot pack has a subtle style and simple sophistication that adds a touch of elegance to your yard. Fill the clay containers with flowers, herbs, or other greenery.
Worth it: I-Concepts Motion Sensor Light
Price: $5
Save money on an expensive electrical service and snag this battery-powered fixture. The motion-activated light makes it easy to see inside cabinets, closets, storage spaces, and other indoor areas.
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Worth it: Glass stemware
Price: $1.50
Set the table in style. Forget about plain plastic cups. This glass stemware has a timeless, elegant, upscale aesthetic that looks expensive.
The extra $0.25 is well worth the price. For $1.50 each, you can afford to pick up an entire set.
Worth it: Coasters
Price: $1.50
These naturally absorbent coasters flawlessly combine form with function. The chic Mediterranean style isn't the only reason to snag the $1.50 (each) deal. This party-ready pick prevents spills and other messes from ruining your furniture.
Skip: My Mochi
Price: $5
Don't overpay just to satisfy your sweet tooth. While we're fans of this summertime snack, the price just isn't right. Walmart sells the same item for $4.97, and Aldi's store-brand version costs $4.95.
Skip: Scott Comfort Plus Toilet Tissue
Price: $5
Brand-name buys aren't always bargains at Dollar Tree. Case in point, you'll pay $5 for four regular rolls of this Scott TP. For reference, the retailer's Strong and Soft $1.50 generic is a better deal.
Skip: Rubbermaid TakeAlongs
Price: $6
This oversized set of plasticware is an expensive option that you might want to avoid. The $6 price tag isn't in line with Dollar Tree's other budget-friendly buys.
Swap this kitchen item for Sure Fresh's Large Rectangular Containers with Lids (two-pack for $1.50) or a four-count of McCormick Rectangular Containers (also $1.50).
Bottom line
The trend towards $1.25-plus products shouldn't stop you from shopping at this discount store. Even though some of Dollar Tree's deals are duds, we still found plenty of affordable items to snap up this August.
Whether you're picking up paperware for an end-of-summer soiree or looking for new home decor, our handpicked list includes a bounty of bargains. But that's not all. Check out the dollar retailer's food and beverage section to save money on groceries this August.
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