How to Shop Smart at the 99 Cent Store

People are trying to save money everywhere when it comes to shopping in this economic recession. People may even start going to stores they thought they would never venture into in their lives. Here are some ways to save when you start shopping at 99 cent stores.

First, always look at the expiration of the items you are buying. A gallon of juice for a dollar is a great bargain if you can finish it before it goes bad. If the store makes that product two for a dollar that means the product is really close to expiration. Be aware that breads which are 99 cents can be going stale or can have mold if they are close to expiration. Look over bread products carefully before you buy them. Try to buy the freshest date possible. If you buy extra then freeze the extra bread.

Second, read all ingredients. I heard a Chinese tooth paste was selling for 99 cents but it contained no fluoride. A lot of products like soap and shampoo will have ingredients lists in Spanish or Chinese. See if there ingredients that you can recognize. Also, if a product is not available anymore you may see it here. I have seen Avon lotions that are not available anymore to buy from the representative.

Third, just because it is a generic brand or an unfamiliar name doesn't mean it taste lousy and is a bad product. I saw Mozart chocolates and Rite Sport chocolates popular brands in Germany being sold for 99 cents here.

Fourth, don't just buy it because is 99 cents. Ask yourself if you would eat if it weren't a dollar.

Fifth, if you are throwing a party then this a great place for favors and some cheap gifts for children games or party goodie bags. You can even buy some great wedding favors for the guest table. You can also get birthday cards, wrapping paper and gift bags to wrap the presents. Also, remember for this New Year this is a great place to buy those New Year Date books and calendars.

Sixth, gifts like race cars and coloring books and children's books are great gifts for the holidays. All year long you can shop for great children books.

Seventh, not all 99 cents have food. Some just have paper products and canned food. Also, be aware that not everything is always 99 cents. Even 99 cents have felt the economic pitch of the recession.

Eighth, know your prices. That canned corn is not a bargain if you can get it for 79 cents in Edwards's supermarkets.

Ninth, if you need food, litter or pet toys for your pet you can get them in a 99 cents store.

Tenth, name brands like Perdue chicken you will see here it for a few hours and then it is gone. Don't expect good buys to wait. If you see a great bargain or unique product then get it before it is gone.

It's not the worst thing in the world to buy food products in the 99 cents. Don't feel ashamed that you are shopping there. In those hard economic times, the 99 cents is for everybody budget. Your friends may get jealous and be shopping along with you when see the great products you got because of my money saving tips on how to navigate the 99 cent stores.