Credit.com: 5 Dollar Store Dangers

This week on Credit.com, check out my post on items you should avoid at all costs at your local dollar store – even if it's just 99 cents.

Here's a snippet.

This weekend, the San Diego Union-Tribune had an interesting story on the success of dollar stores in this economy where everyone's looking for a deal. Dollar store stocks have been outpacing the market, giving Walmart and other giant retailers a run for their money. And while it's true that these stores can be fantastic places to stock up on inexpensive party plates, notebooks, cleaning supplies and gift wrap, the truth is you're better off leaving some items on the shelves. In fact, Consumer Reports has done extensive research in the past outlining exactly what you should and shouldn't buy at local dollar stores.

Here are the top five things you're better off ignoring:

Batteries: The dollar-store variety of batteries are often of poor quality, which can amount to possible leakage and poor performance. Better off going to a big-box retailer or wholesaler to stock up on batteries, should you need many.

Children's Toys: Researchers found these items tend to be of very low quality and pose safety risks to children, often because of their small, detachable parts. Some also lack required safety labeling.

For the rest, check out Credit.com

Photo courtesy Daniel Beaman photography