This year has been quite a ride for Dollar Tree! Back in January, they took over the old Tuesday Morning location near Boise Towne Square Mall. It seemed like a bold move since they already had a store just a mile away, near Barnes & Noble.
But things took a turn. In March, Dollar Tree, Inc. announced plans to close about 1,000 of its stores across its two brands: Dollar Tree and Family Dollar. They expected to shut down around 600 Family Dollar locations in the first half of the year, followed by another 370 Family Dollar stores and 30 Dollar Tree stores as their leases expired.
Idaho felt the impact, too. While the shiny new store by the mall and the one near Barnes & Noble is still open, the Dollar Tree on Collister and the Family Dollar on State Street has closed down without much notice.
Then in May, Dollar Tree made headlines again by buying 170 of the 99 Cents Only stores that were set to close due to bankruptcy. This move raised some eyebrows since just a couple of months earlier, they planned to shrink their operations. We’re just customers, not business experts!
Despite the closures, we’re thankful that Dollar Tree continues to have a presence in over 25 Idaho cities. Whether it’s pool noodles, holiday decorations, craft supplies, or toys, these stores are still a great place to find bargains, even with prices now at $1.25 per item—up from the classic dollar price tag.
For instance, those Dollar Tree fish bowls we use to create adorable snowmen? They’re still cheaper than similar bowls at Hobby Lobby, especially when the latter isn’t running a sale. Depending on your ribbon choice, Hobby Lobby may offer fewer yards for a higher price!
However, not every item at dollar stores is a good deal. Many major publications have highlighted items that are better bought at larger retailers like Albertsons, Fred Meyer, or Walmart, especially for safety and financial reasons. Here are 13 items you should skip buying at Idaho dollar stores.
First, food items may seem tempting, but they often have shorter shelf lives and can be less fresh than what you find at regular grocery stores. You might also discover that snacks and packaged foods are cheaper in bulk at larger stores.
Second, batteries sold at dollar stores may not last as long as those from well-known brands. It’s usually a better idea to invest in quality batteries to avoid frequent replacements.
Next, cleaning supplies might not be as effective as those sold at traditional retailers. They may contain fewer active ingredients, meaning you could end up using more products to achieve the same results, which can be more costly in the long run.
Be cautious when purchasing personal care products. Many items at dollar stores may not meet safety standards and could contain harsh chemicals. It’s wise to spend a bit more on trusted items.
Over-the-counter medications at dollar stores might not work as effectively as name-brand options. It’s always best to choose medications from reliable sources to ensure their quality and effectiveness.
You should also think twice about buying toys at dollar stores. Many toys are made from lower-quality materials and may not pass safety standards. It’s safer to choose toys from reputable retailers.
Home decor items can be appealing, but the quality is often lacking. Investing in better-quality decor from specialty stores can save you money in the long run since dollar-store items may need to be replaced more frequently.
Party supplies may appear cheap, but many dollar-store items might not hold up well during your celebrations. Choosing higher-quality supplies ensures a smoother event.
Glassware sold at dollar stores can vary in quality, and some may break easily. It’s usually worth spending a little more on sturdier glassware from established retailers.
Small appliances like toasters or blenders at dollar stores often lack durability. Spending more on reliable appliances can prevent the frustration of them breaking down quickly.
Clothing might seem like a good deal, but many items won’t hold up well after a few washes. Choosing clothing from better-quality retailers will ensure you get more wear out of your purchases.
Health and beauty products at dollar stores often contain subpar ingredients. Always check the quality and consider buying from trusted brands to avoid any potential issues.
Finally, while dollar stores offer pet supplies, they may not be the safest or most effective options for your furry friends. It’s crucial to choose quality pet food and toys from reputable retailers to keep your pet healthy and happy.
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While Idaho dollar stores offer plenty of affordable products, it’s essential to be mindful of what you’re buying. For better quality and safety, avoid these 13 items by shopping at larger retailers that provide better options.
