11 Things Never to Buy from the Dollar Store

Good chef's knives don't come cheap, so you might be tempted to pick up a blade or two at the dollar store. Just remember that you get what you pay for. The reason good knives are expensive is that you're paying for quality—something dollar store knives are not known for. Safety is also an issue: Because dull blades are more difficult to use, they can lead to dangerous cooking accidents. You’re better off investing in a sharp knife that will last a lifetime.

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If something is too good to be true, then it probably is. Case in point: cheap, generic medicine and vitamins from the dollar store. These drugs haven't necessarily been subject to the same testing and regulations as name-brand products and may not even have any active ingredients, so there’s no real way of knowing what’s in the pills. If the drug hasn't been cleared by your physician or you aren't sure of its integrity, skip it.

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Pet food is another dollar store item that may not contain all the ingredients you think it does. Sure, it's cheaper, but do you really want to compromise your beloved pet's nutrition for a couple of dollars in savings? Instead, watch the circulars at the local pet or grocery stores to spot deals and coupons for better brands.

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Cheap toys are made with cheap materials. Some budget toys may not be guaranteed to be toxin-free, and others may simply break with normal wear and tear, making them a safety hazard for young children who might then pop these harmful objects in their mouths.

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Batteries from the dollar store aren’t as effective for a couple of reasons. First of all, dollar store batteries are often older than the ones you'll find in other retail stores. Secondly, generic batteries are typically made from carbon zinc, which doesn’t last as long as lithium, the preferred ingredient. Plus, cheap batteries are more likely to leak, which can damage your gadget. You’re better off spending a few dollars more on good batteries rather than hoping for the best with generics.

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Tools should be sturdy and durable enough to stand up to tough work. A high-quality tool kit often comes with a warranty, so even if something breaks on the job, you can rest easy knowing you can replace it at little or no cost. Tools from the dollar store, on the other hand, are poorly made and won't last long. In fact, they could even lead to injury if they break at a particularly inopportune moment or while you're doing major construction. 

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