6 best dollar store buys

If you haven’t been to one of the dollar stores lately, you’d be amazed at what you can get for only $1!

Items like gift wrap, ribbons, bows, wrapping paper and tape are all no-brainers at dollar stores—particularly 'true' dollar store chains like Dollar Tree and 99-Cent Only chains, where everything is $1 or less, no exceptions! (By contrast, Family Dollar and Dollar General are dollar stores in name only; they have a variety of price points beyond just a buck.)

Read more: 5 ways to maximize your savings on Amazon

But dig a little deeper and you’ll find even more outside-the-box kind of savings — on season items as well as everyday products!

Here are 5 of the best holiday buys at the dollar store

Greeting cards

. Forget about paying upwards of $6 or $8 for a fancy card! The dollar store has a fabulous selection of greeting cards that are cute and don’t break the bank. These cards are often priced 2 for $1.

Craft supplies

. You’ll save up to an estimated 50% on markers, crayons, pens and pencils. The discounts will sometimes be more than 50%, and only very rarely less—though it will always be a savings.

Kitchen gadgets

. The dollar store is also an excellent place to stock up on affordable glassware, economic kitchen accessories and zipper storage bags.

Paperware and party supplies

: Anything that you would normally get at a big party store can be a real steal at dollar stores.

$1 steaks

! Who says entertaining and dining has to be expensive?

now sells

steaks for $1 each. The frozen, boneless beef steaks come pre-seasoned in a brine. The meat is from the brand

, which is available in other major stores. The Dollar Tree steaks are just a smaller portion size!

Read more: 10 best drugstore bargains

But you might think twice about buying these things at dollar stores!

Consumer Reports recently took a close look at dollar stores in their Money Adviser publication and identified some sketchy products in dollar stores that you might want to stay away from. Here's their list: