Stepping into a 5-and-dime store used to feel like entering a little world of wonder—where a few coins could go a long way. From candy counters and sewing supplies to toys and household staples, these stores had a little bit of everything packed into every aisle.
Whether you remember shopping there or just love a good throwback, here are 12 classic things you could always find at a 5-and-dime.
Classic Yo-Yo
You can’t go wrong with a classic yo-yo. This timeless toy offers hours of fun and can easily fit in your pocket. At a 5-and-dime store, you might find colorful tin yo-yos, often packaged with nostalgic designs.
Playing with a yo-yo helps improve hand-eye coordination and is a great way to impress your friends. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, the simple joy of a yo-yo never fades.
Etch A Sketch
You might remember the magic of an Etch A Sketch from your childhood. This classic drawing toy lets you create images by turning two knobs that control a stylus.
Inside, it uses a simple system of aluminum powder and a stylus to produce your drawings. You can shake it to erase, making it a fun way to start fresh anytime.
Perfect for travel, the Etch A Sketch fits easily in a bag. It offers hours of entertainment without the need for batteries or screens. You can find this nostalgic toy at many 5-and-dime stores.
Slinky
You might remember picking up a Slinky at a 5-and-dime store. This classic toy is famous for its simple yet mesmerizing ability to walk down stairs.
Made from metal or plastic, the Slinky stretches and wiggles with ease. It’s a perfect example of timeless fun that many generations have enjoyed.
Whether you’re a kid or just young at heart, a Slinky can provide hours of entertainment. It’s easy to see why it remains a staple at nostalgic shops.
Lincoln Logs
Lincoln Logs are a classic building toy that you might find at a 5-and-dime store. These wooden logs snap together to create everything from cabins to forts, sparking your creativity.
This popular toy has been enjoyed by generations. They encourage imaginative play while developing fine motor skills. You can create structures in endless configurations.
Many stores even offer special sets for special occasions. Whether you’re a child or just a kid at heart, Lincoln Logs bring a sense of nostalgia and fun to building projects.
Tiddlywinks
Tiddlywinks is a classic game that many remember fondly from childhood. It’s simple yet engaging, involving small plastic discs called “winks” that you flip into a pot using a larger piece called a “shooter.”
You can often find vintage Tiddlywinks sets at 5-and-dime stores, bringing back memories of friendly competition and laughter. These nostalgic games are perfect for enjoyable family gatherings or reintroducing an old favorite to a new generation.
If you’re on the lookout for something unique, check out Tiddle E. Winks Vintage 5 & Dime, where over 100 Tiddlywinks games are on display, showcasing their rich history.
Bon Ami Cleaning Powder
You might remember Bon Ami Cleaning Powder from your childhood visits to the 5-and-dime store. This classic product has been a trusted household cleaner for generations.
Made with natural ingredients like feldspar and limestone, it gives surfaces a gentle yet effective clean. You can use it on countertops, bathtubs, and even glass-top stoves.
It’s perfect for tackling tough stains and keeping your home looking fresh. Plus, it’s environmentally friendly, making it a great choice for your cleaning routine.
Fels-Naptha Laundry Soap
Fels-Naptha Laundry Soap is a staple that you might find at a 5-and-dime store. This bar soap is known for its powerful stain-fighting properties.
You can use it to pretreat tough stains like grease and oil before washing your clothes. It’s a reliable, old-fashioned solution that many people swear by.
You’ll appreciate how it can tackle everything from ring-around-the-collar to dirt and perspiration. Whether you’re making your own laundry detergent or using it directly, Fels-Naptha is a versatile choice.
Paper Dolls
You may remember the joy of playing with paper dolls as a child. 5-and-dime stores were great places to find these charming items, often sold in packets.
These paper dolls featured outfits you could mix and match for hours of fun. You could choose from dresses in various colors and styles, like a classic red dress or a cozy green jacket.
Not only were they affordable, but they also sparked your creativity. Creating stories and adventures with your paper dolls made them a delightful part of your childhood.
Brach’s Pick-A-Mix Candy
Brach’s Pick-A-Mix Candy made trips to the five-and-dime store special. You could fill a bag with your favorite sweets, choosing from a colorful array of options.
These candy stations offered everything from soft caramels to classic root beer barrels. You might also recall the tri-colored coconut and butterscotch varieties that delighted your taste buds.
Making your own mix was part of the fun, letting you create a personalized treat. It’s a nostalgic reminder of simpler times spent browsing aisles filled with delightful choices.
Dubble Bubble Gum
Dubble Bubble Gum is a classic treat that many remember fondly from childhood. Known for its bright pink color and signature shape, it offers a fun, nostalgic experience.
You can find various flavors, from original bubblegum to exciting options like cotton candy. Each piece invites you to enjoy the sweet, chewy goodness.
5-and-dime stores often stock Dubble Bubble, making it easy to grab a pack while browsing. Whether you enjoy it for yourself or share with friends, it’s always a delightful choice.
