We've all been trying to find ways to stretch the household budget. Some, like Parris Oseguera, depend on the neighborhood dollar store to help.

"Comparing to the prices in supermarkets, this is a bargain. You can't beat it," she said.

Dollar stores sell everything, from household supplies to dairy products. But which products give you the best bang for your buck?

The Good Housekeeping Research Institute says there are definite do's and don'ts to follow when shopping at a dollar store.

Items like paper goods earn in a solid do.

"Paper plates were twice as expensive in a regular grocery store as they were in the dollar store. If you are willing to buy generic paper goods, you can find them at a quarter of the price," said director Miriam Arond.

Crackers, cereal, and soda all get the go-ahead. But if the item or box looks opened or tampered with, don't buy it.

Cosmetics from a name brand can be a steal, but be careful. If the packaging doesn't look familiar, don't buy it. It could be counterfeit.

The Good Housekeeping experts found savings of up to $4 on name-brand cleaning products, and suggest stocking up at the dollar store.

They also found a savings up to $3 on name-brand foods, such as Cheerios and Wheat Thins.