Dollar Tree Prices Are Rising, But These 10 Items Are Still Great Bargains

Dollar Tree's recent departure from the iconic $1.25 pricing to a new "dollar plus" model has shoppers wondering if the store is still an affordable option. That's why we scoured the aisles for the best buys on everything from groceries to home decor.

While some of our favorite finds are $1.50 or more, all of the items on our handpicked list are budget-friendly bargains — especially when you compare prices to specialty stores. So if you're looking for an easy way to keep more cash in your wallet, here are 10 amazingly affordable Dollar Tree deals you shouldn't ignore.

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

Price: $1.50

Dill pickle everything is a foodie trend that you can scoop up for $1.50 right now. Even though it's $0.25 more than what you might expect to pay at Dollar Tree, this 12-ounce bottle of gourmet mustard is a "dill-ightful' deal. French's version costs over twice the price ($3.19) at Target.

Don't worry about waiting for your next picnic or backyard barbecue to use this curious condiment. The zesty spread is perfect on everything from burgers to Bavarian pretzels. And if you like to get creative in the kitchen, whisk one teaspoon of this mouthwatering mustard with three tablespoons of vinegar, half a cup of EVOO, and a pinch of pepper to make a delicious dressing.

Price: $10

Accent your sofa, loveseat, or bed for less with this 30-by-60-inch 100% cotton throw. The budget-friendly buy seamlessly combines form with function. Yes, it's an affordable interior accessory. But that's not all. Wrap yourself in cozy warmth and enjoy the ultra-soft, breathable fabric on a chilly day.

As part of the retailer's new "dollar plus" model, this pick is significantly more expensive than most customers have come to expect from the chain. While $10 is at the top of Dollar Tree's price range, it's still less than what specialty home decor stores charge. In comparison, West Elm sells a Cotton Knit Throw for $89.

Price: $7

Affordable electronics, like this portable wireless Bluetooth speaker, are a top reason to shop at Dollar Tree.

How much can you save by shopping smarter and scooping up this dollar store deal? Compare $7 for the JBL dupe to $94.95 for the real deal (at Best Buy).

If you're wondering whether this low-priced pick will hold up over time, take it from this Dollar Tree customer: "I am quite surprised over the quality of this speaker. Let's face it, at $7 your expectations need to be on the low side. I have a Sonos sound system in my home, so I certainly wasn't expecting much…The sound is good, and although there is a limit on the volume, it resonates well for what volume there is."

Price: $6

Stay cool and comfortable in these low-cut ladies' ankle socks (fits shoe sizes 5-10, sock sizes 9-11).

If you're searching for something with plenty of cushion and a below-the-shoe, no-show design, this dollar-store deal is an affordable alternative to expensive department- and specialty-store socks. Choose from solid white or, if you're feeling funky, nab a multi-color assortment.

The 10-pack is a bulk-buy value for $6. How much can you save? A single pair of Bombas Women's Ankle Socks sells for $14 on the brand's website. In a price-per-pair showdown, Dollar Tree is a phenomenal value, beating the other retailer by $13.

Price: $5

Are you road trip ready? Keep your car clean and organize everything from snacks to your sunglasses in this over-the-seat system.

The 16-by-24-inch universal fit, waterproof storage center features a phone/tablet pocket, a headphone loop, two small mesh pockets, two medium mesh pockets, two large mesh pockets, a tissue box holder, and a charging cable holder.

Don't let the higher price tag scare you away from this auto item. The "dollar plus" $5 price is still a steal compared to what you could pay at Target. The big red bullseye retailer sells a Brightroom Large Seat Back organizer for triple Dollar Tree's price ($15).

Price: $1.75

Real blooms wither within weeks. But these faux flowers could last for years. And bonus, Dollar Tree's seasonal stock of artificial florals changes often, making it easy to decorate your home for special events, occasions, and holidays at any time of the year.

The specific styles, colors, sizes, and stem count vary by location and availability. But the price is one thing that stays the same. For under $2, you can snap up several sprigs and still have money left over for a stylish glass vase ($1.75 and up, depending on the design), a bag of accent gems ($1.75), and floral foam ($1.75).

Price: $1.50

Dollar Tree's food and beverage section often undercuts the prices you might find in most major grocery stores. And that's why smart shoppers check for delicious deals like this salty and sweet spread.

Transform toast, swipe this honey nut butter over a bagel, or mix the protein-rich pick into a smoothie. You can even add this affordable item to your favorite cookie, cupcake, brownie, or pie recipes.

The extra quarter you'll pay (compared to Dollar Tree's classic $1.25 price) is well worth it for this tasty 10-ounce container. Customers rate this pantry product 5 stars for its sweet, creamy appeal.

Price: $1.50

Clean your kitchen counters, appliances, vanity, and more with this 30-count of multi-surface wipes. Made with plant-derived ingredients, the zesty peppermint-sage cloths are a budget-friendly steal at $1.50. We also spotted a 35-pack of Seventh Generation's Garden Mint Scent wipes at Whole Foods Market for $5.79. In a price-per-piece comparison, Dollar Tree is the clear winner at $0.05 per wipe versus $0.17 per wipe.

Customers are obsessed with this well-priced product. Dollar Tree shopper "Nana2211" gave the cost-friendly canister five stars and raved, "These are my favorite for cleaning the stovetop; they don't leave any streaks, and they smell great."

Price: $1.50

No one will guess that you got this stylish stoneware plate at Dollar Tree for $1.50. And don't worry, we won't spill your dollar store secret.

The extra quarter you'll pay (compared to the discount retailer's old everything-is-$1.25 pricing model) shouldn't stop you from picking up this plate. This high-end copycat has a quiet rustic charm that only looks expensive. Pottery Barn sells a set of four Cambria Handcrafted Plates for $48. Compare $12 per piece to this deal.

When it comes to the quality, shoppers gush over this durable stoneware selection: "We bought 10 plates/10 bowls, and they've outlasted the Macy's dinnerware."

Price: $5

Fine fragrances don't have to break the bank. And this one doesn't.

The sweet-smelling strawberries and cream 14-ounce candle may cost more than $1.25, but it's still a better value than what you could pay elsewhere. Bath & Body Works charges $24.95 for a similar 14.5-ounce three-wick "Strawberry Pound Cake" jar.

Not a fan of festive fruity fragrances? No problem. Dollar Tree also stocks a wide range of candles, including sought-after seasonal scents. We found a $1 (yes, one dollar) bargain on a 14-ounce Farm House Cedar candle and $5 deals on Pumpkin Buttered Rum, Mahogany Orchard, Rustling Leaves, and Cashmere Vanilla.

The new multi-price-point strategy does make shopping more expensive at this discount store. But, as our list proves, you can still score deals at Dollar Tree. Even though you could spend $1.50, $3, $7, or more, these values are still economical options compared to what higher-end retailers charge for comparable items.

How can you offset the cost of Dollar Tree's price increases? Here's an easy-to-follow tip that savvy shoppers swear by: Use the best cash back credit cards on eligible purchases to earn rewards and other perks on eligible purchases. This puts your next haul to work and could earn you valuable rewards.