Beware These Dollar Store Duds

Reported by: John Matarese

In todays economy, bargain shoppers love their local dollar store. Where else can you buy so much for so little?

But while you will find great bargains, a new report says there are some items you may want to avoid.

So Cheaply Made...

The website Walletpop.com -- normally a big fan of dollar stores -- has just listed five "Dollar Store Duds."

It says some items are so cheaply made , you might be better off paying a few bucks more elsewhere.

Its dollar store duds include:

• Portable radios for $1: It says they did not hold stations when the user walked around.
• Garden hose nozzles for $1: It claimed they leaked from the beginning.
• Vegetable garden picket fence for $1: It was hard to stick in the ground, and even once it was in place it did not stay up.
• Sticky picture and poster hangers for $1: Unfortunately, Walletpop says they did not stick to the wall very long.
• Two pillow case covers for $1: They "pilled" after a few weeks according to the website.

This doesn't mean that all are junk. Some stores may have better quality versions of these products. But an FM radio for a dollar is not going to be a iPod, or anything even remotely close

But my advice? Consumer Reports Magazine says dollars stores are best for basics, such as:

• Cleaning supplies
• Detergent
• Paper towels, napkins, toilet tissue and other paper products
• Wrapping paper

Next: Beware these Dollar Store Dangers