When you’re trying to save money this winter, you might think shopping at Dollar Tree is a no-brainer. But with higher prices on more and more items — and sometimes questionable quality — there are a few things you might want to avoid putting in your cart altogether.
These five Dollar Tree items aren’t worth your money, but there are a few alternatives that could be a better fit.
1. Essentials Assorted Fabric Storage Baskets With Grommet
- Price: $1.25
Getting organized for the new year might lead you to search Dollar Tree for new bins, but you may want to reconsider these fabric storage baskets. Most notably, they are undeniably flimsy and feel like they’re made of cardboard with a thin fabric covering. While you might be able to use them to get organized, expect them to not hold up very well over time.
Fortunately, you won’t have to look far for a good alternative. Dollar Tree also carries patterned plastic baskets which can be just as useful for organizing.
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2. Xtra Care Travel-Size Antibacterial Hand Sanitizer
- Price: $1.25
Staying healthy during cold and flu season often means carrying hand sanitizer to keep germs at bay. However, these travel-sized antibacterial hand sanitizers from Dollar Tree might not be worth it. Unlike other sanitizers, these are only 70% alcohol, so they feel watered down.
Instead, you might want to try the B.Pure sprayable hand sanitizer from Dollar Tree.
3. Glazed Metallic Clay Sentiment Mugs
- Price: $1.50
At first glance, you might see a simple coffee mug to sip from on a cold winter morning. At second glance, you’ll likely understand why these glazed metallic mugs are at the Dollar Tree. The mugs read, “All You Need Love Coffee,” which doesn’t make a lot of sense.
For a few dollars more, you could find a mug with a little more personality from Target, like this Howdy mug for $4.80.
4. Seasonal Collection Valentine’s Tree
- Price: $1.50
If you just got done putting away your Christmas tree, the last thing you need is another tree to put up for Valentine’s Day. Even though it’s only $1.50, this Valentine’s tree from Dollar Tree is more likely to become clutter in your home rather than a seasonal focal point.
5. Home Decor LED Tube Pillar Candle
- Price: $3.00
You want the ambiance of a candle without the wax, fire or smoke, but these LED pillar candles from Dollar Tree aren’t your best bet. These pillar candles only come in pink or blue, and take three AAA batteries to operate. The flickering light doesn’t look realistic, either, so it’s lacking the ambiance you might be trying to create.
Instead, you could get this three-pack of flameless candles from Walmart for $19.99. It comes with a remote and looks more expensive than it costs.
Disclaimer: Prices and availability accurate as of Jan. 24, 2026 and subject to change. All imagery sourced from DollarTree.com.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 5 Dollar Tree Winter Items That Fail the Value Test
