Initially, it was all about the thrill of finding a bargain but has now become a necessity since a tankful of gas, a gallon of milk, and a box of cereal can just about destroy a family’s weekly budget. Today’s dollar stores are much different than when I began frequenting the isles. In the past, discount and dollar stores seemed a bit disorganized and perhaps not as clean as one might hope.

There is also a misnomer about the word “dollar” included in many of the stores names. While there are some stores who sell all merchandise for a dollar or less, many price brand-named merchandise at up to 70% off the regular price you would find in another popular store. You may not actually be paying a buck for your stuff, but you are still saving a lot of money. Dollar may also translate as low-quality to some consumers.

Merchandise sold at discount stores are typically the same items you would find at any other retailer. The products sold through a dollar store are often overstock items or products purchased from other retailers, who have gone out of business. The dollar store is able to purchase the merchandise at a discount and, in turn, passes the savings along to the consumer. The biggest difference between a dollar store and other retailers is the selection available. Shopping at a grocery store, you are more likely to find the same products consistently. At a dollar store, what is there one day may not be on the shelves the next.

In addition to the already-discounted prices, dollar stores are stepping up their game and often host even more sales and deals through a weekly circular or special coupon. The most popular dollar stores in the country are currently Dollar General, Dollar Tree, Family Dollar, Fred’s Super Dollar and 99 Cents Only. Each store will feature different stock which changes frequently.

If you have never taken the opportunity to check out your local dollar store, give it a try. You may be surprised at what you save on your regular brand-named products like toilet paper, laundry soap, shampoo, craft items, gift wrapping supplies, kid’s books, snacks, and more.

DON’T DIS THE DOLLAR STORE was created by and is property of American Consumer News.