While there are certainly some things you should avoid at Dollarama (i.e. canned meat), we all know the dollar store can offer some cheap and buys that are well worth the money. Figuring out what to buy and what to stay away from isn’t always that obvious, so we did some uncover investigating to tell you which items are a waste of money if you purchase them elsewhere. Take a look at 12 things you should always buy at Dollarama below.
1. Party Supplies
Dollarama is a great place to source party supplies; they have a wide selection of streamers, confetti, balloons etc. When everything gets thrown out the day afterward, it doesn’t make sense to spend more than you have to.
Tip: While you’re getting your party supplies, also look for discount gift bags and wrapping paper.
2. Holiday Cards
There are so many events you buy cards for, birthdays, holidays, weddings, etc and sorry to tell you but the card almost always gets thrown out. There’s absolutely no reason to be spending $5 on a greeting card when you can grab one at a dollar store for less. It’s the message inside the means the most anyways.
3. Household Cleaning Products
If you go to grocery stores for household cleaning products, you’re paying a premium. Not only does Dollarama sell brand name dish soap for less, but their house brand is also only $1 and works just as well. Same goes for cleaning products like window cleaner and all-purpose cleaner.
Pro Tip: Also buy your dishrags and hand towels here; you’re using them to clean up a mess anyways.
4. Seasonal Decorations
The holiday season has already begun and Dollarama is one of the best places to get seasonal decor. Do not waste your money on expensive decorations that are in storage for most of the year. If you’re going to decorate your entire house, why not do it for less?
Pro Tip: Avoid holiday lights as they don’t have the best safety reputation at discount stores.
5. Candy & Chocolate
FYI: the brand name candy at Dollarama is not a scam. If you’re craving a chocolate bar or some Lays chips, they’ll definitely be selling it for less.
Pro Tip: Brand name cereal is also cheaper at Dollarama too!
6. Food storage containers
Food storage can surprisingly get pretty pricey, but at the end of the day as long as they perform their basic function, why pay upwards of $5 at the grocery store? Every store usually has a wide selection of food storage, so save some dollars the next time you need new ones.
Pro Tip: Check that the lids open and seal properly before buying your containers.
7. Basic Beauty Supplies
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Beauty supplies can definitely add up so don’t waste money on basic items like cotton swabs and cotton balls, hair elastics, bobby pins, hair brushes, and nail files. Dollarama also sometimes gets excess brand name makeup – we’ve seen CoverGirl’s LashBlast Luxe Mascara for only $3!
Pro Tip: When buying cosmetics check for expiration dates and properly sealed packaging.
8. Notebooks
You should always buy notebooks at the dollar store. They’re way cheaper than most places sell for and you can find them all different sizes and colours. Mini-notebooks are easy to slip into your bag or pocket if you’re writing a to-do list.
Pro Tip: You can also find lots of colouring-books for cheaper than most places.
9. Storage
10. Vases & Decorative Bowls
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Find great deals on bowls, glass vases, terrarium containers, mason jars and lots more. You can even decorate them and give them away as presents to your family and friends. It’s a one-stop shop for all you need to get decorating.
11. Picture Frames
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With minimal effort, bargain frames can look just as nice as the expensive ones you initially wanted to buy. If you’re crafty, a little paint or a small decorative touch can make your picture frames look high-quality.
Pro Tip: Make sure to check the joints and make sure they are stable and look for any extra glue that may be difficult to remove.
12. Spices
Stocking up on spices at the grocery store can get expensive, but at the Dollarama, you can add just the right amount of spice to your life for less.
Pro Tip: If you’re looking for Himalayan pink salt, you can get it from Dollarama!