Shopping at your local dollar store is a great way to stay within budget. Many people aren’t aware that their products are comparable to what you will find in other stores, for a fraction of the price. Continue reading to learn 7 of the best items to buy from the dollar store.

Notebooks and school supplies. If you choose to purchase school supplies at your local dollar store, you could end up saving a great deal of money. Supplies like notebooks, notepads, reams of paper, folders, pencils and pens are all sold for just $1 each, whereas at any other department store you can anticipate paying an average of double the price.

Greeting cards. Why pay up to $10 for a card that talks or plays music, when you can pay nearly one tenth of the price for a simple card with a meaningful message? When it comes to purchasing cards for birthdays, anniversaries, or events – consider your local dollar store, first.

Holiday decorations. Seasonal items like Easter baskets, wreaths, banners, wrapping paper and other decorations can all be purchased at the dollar store for a fraction of their normal price. Avoid the increased prices at the department store, around the time of the holidays, and peruse the aisles of your local dollare store for some interesting finds.

Puzzles and board games. The toy and party supply aisle at most dollar stores is filled with an array of items. You’re likely to find a variety of puzzles and board games like Chess, Scrabble, Monopoly, Candy Land and more for just $1.

Washcloths and dish towels. Instead of investing in items like washcloths and dishtowels, which won’t last for very long, purchase them for pennies at your local dollar store. The quality is comparable to that of department store brands, and you won’t have to feel guilty about throwing them away after a few months have passed.

Cleaning supplies. All-Purpose cleaners, kitchen and bathroom cleaners and name brand deodorizers can be purchased at your local dollar store. You can even find reusable spray bottles, rubber gloves, cleaning supply caddies, and cleaning brushes.

Socks. Just like washcloths and dish towels, socks are items that don’t last for very long – regardless of the brand. Most people don’t realize that dollar store socks can be as good as most department store varieties, you just have to find the right type. Instead of paying over over $14 for a 10 pack of socks at a department store, consider paying just $1 for a few pairs at your local dollar store