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Here are seven kitchen items we always buy at the dollar store. Why spend more when you don't have to?

1. Plates
I usually buy plates from thrift stores, but would definitely consider dollar-store plates if I were staying anywhere long-term. Why? You can't always find matching plates at a thrift store — and, let's be honest, the ones you do find are sometimes really ugly. A plain color from the dollar store is infinitely better than an outdated design from a thrift store.

2. Glasses for Your Bar
Whether you're drinking beer or wine, the dollar store probably has the glasses for the job. And if you're not sick of them yet, you can even find some faux Mason jars with handles.

3. Flatware
You can certainly pick and choose your forks, butter knives, and spoons from the bin at a thrift store, but if you want a matching set, look to the dollar store. Don't buy your kitchen knives here, though; those are worth spending some money on.

4. Mugs
Oh boy do I adore dollar-store mugs. You can etch them to make them super personalized and, because they're pretty inexpensive, you can buy a ton of 'em.

5. Kitchen Utensils and Tools
Need some tongs? A wooden spoon? Grab them here. Avoid plastic products, though; one study found they have a high concentration of toxic chemicals. I'd also avoid can openers — only because I bought one at a dollar store once and it barely worked.

6. Spices
If you want organic spices or fancy sea salts, the dollar store is not your jam. But if all you need is some good ol' cumin and paprika, voila! Just check the labels to make sure they're not expired.

7. Organizational Containers
Make your Pinterest pantry dreams come true — on a budget. The dollar store has everything from glass canisters to plastic baskets, all prime for organizing your kitchen down to the last teaspoon.

Do you buy any of your kitchen items at the dollar store? If so, which ones? What are some of your favorite ways to stock your kitchen on a budget? Share your thoughts in the comment section below!

Article Source: The Kitchn