Deals Or Disasters?

WASHINGTON, DC (WUSA) -- You can rack up the discounts shopping at your local dollar store.

But frugalyankee.com says some of those deals can be bad news.

The money saving site suggests leaving these items out of your shopping cart.

Batteries. Many of them are knock-offs with inferior materials. They leak acid and don't last as long.

Children's toys and jewelry. They often contain high levels of lead.

Vitamins. They may be brand names but the frugalyankee.com says check the expiration date closely.

Electrical cords. They usually don't meet UL safety standards.

Food. Be careful, and make sure you read the entire label, the ingredients list, the expiration date and where it was made, especially if you don't recognize the brand.

Paper goods. Foam cups and paper plates, these are usually inferior products.

Toothpaste. Remember 2007 when certain toothpaste from China was found to have nasty chemicals in the tubes. Besides, frugalyankee.com says why bother buying toothpaste from dollar stores when you can find competitive prices at pharmacies and supermarkets.

Peanuts. During the salmonella recall with peanuts and peanut butter, the recall for the product did not include dollar stores even though they had a bunch on store shelves.

But, frugalyankee.com says you can find some good deals in dollar stores.

Gift wrap. Prices for gift wrap, ribbons, and greeting cards are low.

Cleaning supplies. Manufacturers' may change the label or scent. Or the product may no longer be a hot seller. The product still cleans even though it may no longer be popular. But make sure to check the expiration date.

Kitchen accessories. Dollar stores are the place to pick up fresh kitchen towels and dish clothes.

Office and school supplies. No expiration date for these products. Paper, erasers, etc., are decent deals. But be sure to compare prices at discount office stores before you buy.

Plastics. Buckets, bins, organizers, clothes hangers and like items can be good buys. And, hold out for national brands if you expect heavy use.