The dollar store* is a dangerous place for me, as I have been known to compulsively buy things that are on sale- "It's only a dollar! I'd practically be losing money by not buying it!" But discount stores like these, while often looked down on compared to grocery superstores, can actually be a huge asset when you're looking to save money. Some of the products will trick you, because they could actually be found for less at another store, but there are also some products that you shouldn't be buying anywhere but the dollar store.

Disclaimer: if you're really into particular brands, this is not an article you'll want to read.

*Dollar store= store where everything costs a dollar, not those places that just trick you by having the word dollar in their name (I'm looking at you, Dollar General).

1. K-Cups

Most disposable single-serve cups divide out to about $0.50 at the least, which is still far cheaper than your Starbucks habit, but not as cheap as the K-Cups you can find at your local dollar store. At 4 for $1 in several rich flavors (at least I'm assuming the flavor is good. I load mine up with flavored creamer), these will always be my go-to for my morning coffee.

2. Liquid Eyeliner

At Thanksgiving I asked my cousin about her flawless winged eyeliner. What does she swear by? L.A. Colors liquid eyeliner from the dollar store. I tried it myself and was shocked by the ease of application and long lasting color.

3. Vases

I've found plenty of handy uses for vases beyond just flowers, and the cute little squatty round vases at Dollar Tree are perfect for storing makeup brushes!

4. Frames

Where else can you find a wooden (okay, maybe it's fake wood) 8x10" frame for a dollar?

5. Dishes and Glassware

My roommate and I bought our absolute favorite big, deep, sturdy bowls at the Dollar Tree.

6. Pregnancy Tests

Don't worry, dad, this one was recommended to me by the internet. They also sell at-home drugs tests which is neat.

7. Hand Sanitizer

8. Baby Soap

My skin is too sassy for anything else, and brand name baby soap is not cheap!

9. Gift Wrapping

From wrapping paper to gift labels, they have everything, and it's better quality than going for the cheapest option at Walmart!

10. Shower Caps

12 for a dollar? Don't mind if I do.

11. Cleaning Supplies

Aisles upon aisles of bleach, antibacterial wipes, carpet powder, Fabuloso, glass cleaner...I think I'm in heaven.

12. Disposable Foil Pans

These pans are cheap but sturdy enough to bake with and perfect for the holidays when you bring casseroles and desserts to relatives' houses and know that you'll never get your beloved casserole dish back. They come in a variety of sizes, some with lids, and to be 100% honest the large shallow ones can double as convenient disposable litter boxes.

BONUS: Steer clear of off-brand trash bags, crayons, pet food, soda (you can find name brand soda for the same price at Walmart), and children's toys.