5 Things Never to Buy at the Dollar Tree

Shopping at the Dollar Tree can be a great way to keep more money in your bank account. In fact, I regularly buy items there even though I could afford to shop elsewhere. Not only does buying items for just $1 allow me to keep my credit card bills low, but it's also fun to see all the great deals the store has available.

But, while there is a lot that is worth buying at this dollar store, there are five products I'd absolutely never purchase (or never purchase again) and that I would recommend others steer clear of as well. Here's what they are.

1. Aluminum foil

Dollar Tree's aluminum foil is one of the worst products that I have ever purchased. Not only are the rolls really small and the box poorly designed so the foil doesn't cut well, but the foil is also incredibly thin. It tears if you look at it wrong, making it virtually useless if you ever want to actually wrap anything in it.

Rather than buying this item at Dollar Tree, you're much better off getting a generic -- or even name-brand -- roll at your local grocery store or warehouse club. While you'll pay a little more, you'll save a lot of aggravation and your food will be stored more safely.

2. Batteries

Dollar Tree batteries have an extremely short life span. Whenever we've purchased them, whether for remote controls or for children's toys, we end up having to replace the batteries again way faster than we imagined would be possible.

Changing out batteries is a big hassle -- especially when you can't get your TV to turn on or your kid's favorite toy car will no longer drive. Spend a little extra upfront for a better version that is going to last longer. That will likely save you in the end anyway, as buying batteries that don't last is just a waste.

3. Windshield washer fluid

Buying windshield washer fluid at the Dollar Tree may seem like a great idea -- especially as it is less than half the price of a jug of fluid at other big-box stores like Walmart. Unfortunately, the fluid is only effective during the summer months, so if you live in a cold climate, you'll be stuck with washer fluid that can't be used when it's cold outside. Since you often need washer fluid more often in winter, this is a really bad purchase to make.

4. Kitchen knives

If you are actually hoping to cut any of your food with kitchen knives, Dollar Tree's offerings are probably going to disappoint you. The knives (including both the blades and handles) are very flimsy and it's almost impossible to actually cut through anything harder than a slice of bread.

5. Pet food

Dollar Tree's pet food leaves a lot to be desired in terms of quality ingredients. There was also a recall a short time ago as a result of a rodent infestation. I am simply unwilling to trust my pet's health to potentially low-quality food products that may not always be stored safely, so I won't purchase any pet food from the Dollar Tree under any circumstances.

While these items are not great, the good news is there are plenty of better things you can find at Dollar Tree. So, leave these on the shelves and check out the other aisles to find great bargains in kids toys, party favors, and holiday decor.