If you’re trying to cut back on food waste, grocery spending or everyday household costs, a surprising store that can help you keep more money in your pocket is the Dollar Tree. Their kitchen aisle is packed with small, practical swaps that can make a real dent in your monthly budget.
Whether you’re trying to reduce how often you buy disposable products or stretch ingredients further, these low-cost items can save you well over a hundred dollars a month (sometimes more).
Below are smart, budget-friendly kitchen picks that can help you spend less without sacrificing convenience.
Reusable Microwaveable Plates
- Price: $1.25
Most families go through packs of paper plates each month. Sometimes, it’s multiple packs if you have kids, guests or a busy schedule. At Dollar Tree, you can pick up microwave-safe reusable plates for just $1.25 each, allowing you to skip the $6 to $12 per month you’d normally spend on disposables. They hold up surprisingly well and can help reduce both kitchen clutter and your monthly household waste bill.
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Stainless-Steel Reusable Plastic Utensils
- Price: $1.25
Plastic cutlery sets add up quickly, especially for larger families. Dollar Tree carries multi-packs of metal or durable plastic flatware that last for years. By replacing disposable forks and spoons with reusable ones, you’ll avoid constantly running back for new packs. These stainless-steel reusable serving utensils are only $1.25 each and you can also get a three-pack of stainless-steel forks for $1.25.
Not having to constantly repurchase plastic cutlery easily saves families $10 to $25 per month. Plus, reusable utensils elevate even simple meals, encouraging more at-home eating which is one of the biggest long-term money savers.
Durable Food Storage Containers
- Price: $1.50
Meal prepping is one of the best ways to avoid overspending on takeout, grocery impulse buys and food waste. Dollar Tree sells BPA-free storage containers for leftovers, lunch portions, freezer meals and snacks. When you can easily store and reheat meals, you’re much less likely to waste fresh produce or buy lunch on the go.
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the average household of four wastes $3,000 per year on uneaten food. Even cutting your food waste by 25% can save over $150 a month for the average family.
Freezer Organization Baskets
- Price: $1.50
It’s plain and simple: Organized kitchens reduce waste. Dollar Tree’s small storage bins like this one helps you keep track of leftovers, snacks and ingredients before they expire. A tidy fridge makes it easier to stick to your meal plan instead of making last-minute trips to the store.
This organization not only prevents unnecessary purchases but also helps you follow through on meal prepping and cooking plans. Saving even one bag of produce or avoiding one unnecessary grocery trip every couple of weeks can add up to hundreds of dollars by the end of the year.
Dish Drying Microfiber Towels and Mats
- Price: $1.50
Skip the constant paper towel purchases and opt for these microfiber cloths for cleaning, wiping spills and drying dishes. They last for months and are machine-washable. Dish-drying mats are also a great swap for paper towels or bulky dish racks. Dollar Tree also sells these mats in various colors for only $1.50 each.
For some families, swapping paper towels for microfiber can shave $10 to $20 off monthly expenses, all while making cleaning easier and more efficient.
Portion Control Containers
- Price: $1.25
From salad dressing cups to snack-size containers, the portion container options at Dollar Tree are excellent for anyone trying to stretch snacks, condiments and pantry staples. Pre-portioning also helps you avoid overeating pricier items like nuts, trail mix and cheese sticks.
Meal Prep Tools
- Price: $1.25
Dollar Tree carries basic prep tools that make cooking at home easier and cooking at home is where the real savings happen. This measuring cup and measuring spoon set is $1.25 and an essential for everyday cooking. You can also find potato peelers, food choppers, kitchen tongs and bamboo cutting boards.
Having the right tools on hand helps you utilize ingredients more efficiently, avoid food waste and stick to your meal plan. Even replacing two takeout meals per week with homemade versions can easily save $80 or more per month.
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Editor’s note: Pricing and availability may vary depending on location.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 7 Kitchen Items at Dollar Tree That Can Save You Hundreds Every Month
