13 Dollar Store Deals for the Natural home

I never was a dollar store shopper before I had children...  I wouldn't exactly call myself a frequent shopper, but I do on occasion, and for specific items!

There truly are some great deals to be had there!  No- its NOT all terrible toxin-leaching, cheap plastic crap! Who knew!?!?!

so, at just 33 cents a bulb I am saving TONS when a bulb is about $2 at Home Depot!

Here are MY 13 things I prefer to buy at the dollar store:

1) Black Beans- seriously the cheapest you will ever find these!  a whole bag for a buck- rinse them well as they won't be organic for this cheap ;)

2) Tissue Paper- awesome to stuff in gift bags you are already re-using

3) Gift Bags- cheap and great to use over and over for gifts!

4) Craft supplies- they have tons!  check out the 'glass' area for small rocks and marbles- a toddlers sensory delight!

5) Coloring books- you can find some pretty fantastic 'brand name' coloring, math and work books as well

6) Flash cards- we don't use a lot of flash cards in our house but they sure can be fun sometimes- and generally they have multiple uses as games too

7) Soy/almond/rice milks- usually they have something on their shelves from a reputable brand!

8) Dried fruit- generally raisins but sometimes apricots and more

9) Whole grain crackers- I often find natural crackers on the shelves, just be sure to check the package size so you are getting a deal for your dollar- sometimes the boxes can run pretty small!

10) Paper notepads- they have most types of paper, construction, drawing pads, lined- you name it!  a bargain

11) Lightbulbs- how long do these last?  a three pack for a buck is worth the possible shorter life when they can easily be $6 a pack at other stores!

12) Toothbrushes- some children go through toothbrushes REALLY fast, decent toothbrushes can be purchased here for a bargain!  Fun characters such as Hello Kitty and Spiderman too!  i've gotten 4-packs for a dollar!

13) Party supplies- after my child has decided on her birthday theme I first hit the dollar store to stock up on the basics in a coordinating color/pattern.  I then accessorize later with fewer expensive things from a larger store= huge savings!

the coloring notepads are usually pretty thick and the coloring books are always desirable! 

and I only partially recommend:
Containers- There is quite an assortment of organizational items to be found as well, beware that cheap glass breaks really REALLY easy, is a nightmare to clean up and hazardous with kiddos, it is best for temporary use...  and you can find some handy plastic organizers though they generally are not sturdy but can be useful anyway in pantries, drawers and closets!


I stay away from the other plastics, any body care or cleaning products since Im not fond of chemicals. We try not to buy toys there either- though in between the cheapo stuff there is often a gem; Disney flashlights for a dollar!!  (of course I discovered these AFTER spending $10 each at Target :) )

Do you shop at a dollar store?  Any favorite items I should look for???

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Happy Shopping!