“Shopping at Dollar Tree can be a fun experience, but the truth is that excitement is easier sustained when for every item you walk out of the store with, your expectations of quality and value are met,” said Aaron Razon, shopping expert at Couponsnake.
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Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. Don’t let $1.25 deals tempt you into buying something you’ll later regret. Razon advised shoppers to pass up these items at Dollar Tree.
Perishable Food
Razon said buying perishable food items like dairy products and meat at Dollar Tree may not be worth it, both in terms of value and quality. He said the stock might not be as fresh as it would be at other stores or farmers markets because the Dollar Tree inventory may not turn over as quickly.
If you do decide to buy perishable items at Dollar Tree, always check the expiration date.
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Medicine
Razon said another item not to buy at Dollar Tree is medicine. “With only eight pills selling for $1.25, the truth is the deal at Dollar Tree is one that you can easily pass,” he added.
If you do, it’s important to check the expiration date. Also, compare the unit price to what you’d pay for the same product at Walmart (or wherever you typically buy medicine). You might find it’s cheaper to buy a larger quantity somewhere else.
Electronic Devices and Accessories
Razon said the quality of accessories like phone chargers, earbuds and other electronic devices you can find at Dollar Tree are often less reliable than what you might find elsewhere.
“No matter how much more affordable these items may be compared to other stores, their less-than-ideal quality and short lifespan can counteract the savings,” he said.
Cooking Spices
Another category of items Razon advised to avoid buying at Dollar Tree are cooking spices like paprika, garlic powder and other seasonings. He explained that it’s a toss-up when you pick up any of these items at because the quality and freshness of these spices cannot be guaranteed.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: I Asked a Shopping Expert What 4 Items You Should Never Buy at Dollar Tree
