10 things you should never buy at the dollar store

Enrique Marcarian/Reuters

Dollar stores — discount retailers that sell inexpensive household items — might seem like an ideal place to find bargains. But although many items cost just a dollar, not every product is a steal.

That’s not to say you can’t find worthwhile buys at discount stores, but it’s always important to do your research before you shop so you’re not duped into buying items that either lack quality or are simply not the best deal.

Here are 10 items experts say you should never purchase at a dollar store.

1. Electronics

At a dollar store, it’s best to skip the electronics aisle, according to consumer savings expert, Andrea Woroch.

“Most electronics that plug in are junk and don’t last long, especially HDMI cords and power strips,” she said. “When dealing with electronics, it’s best to purchase from a legit electronic retailer or an online store like Amazon.com for cheaper prices.”

Furthermore, extension cords and USB cables from dollar stores both tested high in chlorine, according to a dollar store safety report released by nonprofit organizations the Ecology Center and Campaign for Healthier Solutions. This indicates the cords are made with polyvinyl chloride plastic, or PVC. And the research suggested this is a cancer-causing chemical.

2. Plastic cooking utensils

The dollar store is a go-to destination when planning a summer block party or a barbecue. But pause before you immediately head for the aisle with the plastic cooking utensils.

Plastic cooking utensils from a dollar store — such as plastic slotted spoons, spatulas and the like — might contain bromine, which is a component in brominated flame retardants, also known as BFRs, according to the Ecology Center report.

BFRs are linked to cancer, birth defects and problems with brain development, according to the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. So, consider saving your dollars and buying higher-quality stainless steel cooking utensils instead.

3. Canned goods

Dollar stores’ private-label canned goods are highly likely to have traces of BPA in the linings, according to a report released earlier this year by ToxicFoodCans.org and partner organizations. BPA is said to be harmful to children and disruptive to the reproductive system, according to nonprofit organization Environment and Human Health, Inc.

It’s important to note that some major grocery chains and big-box retailers also carry BPA-coated cans, according to ToxicFoodCans.org. As always, it’s best to do your research to find the safest brands before you buy.