No one would blame you for trying to save a buck or two, but there are some things that simply can’t be bought on the cheap — and may even end up costing you more or affecting your health if you try.
We’re talking about smart purchases that last longer, work consistently, and add value in such a way that, when you think about it, they ultimately pay for themselves.
Not only will a good pair last longer and look nicer, quality shoes properly support and protect your feet. They’re comfortable, fit well, don’t leave you with soggy socks when it rains or snows, and won’t give you blisters or bunions. More importantly, settling for a bad pair of shoes won’t just hurt your feet, but can lead to leg and back pain, too.
A durable, waterproof winter coat can last many years, and will be well worth it when you’re fully insulated from freezing temperatures, snow, and icy winds. Cheaper coats may fall apart, suffer tears or broken zippers and buttons, or fail to keep out the elements. Or, they might be so thin that you’re left shivering all season.
A great way to save money is to cook your own food, but to become a pro in the kitchen, you’ll need a good pan. A quality pan is resistant to scratches or warping, non-toxic, and heats evenly. Materials vary — steel, ceramic, cast iron — but with proper maintenance, they’ll all last a long time.
Similarly, you’re going to want a good set of knives. Dull and cheap knives can be dangerous, and so is just hacking away at everything with a standard serrated kitchen knife. A nice set of knives will offer versatility in the kitchen, and blades can be resharpened with a whetstone.
Getting enough quality sleep is one of the most important factors in a healthy life, so choose a bed that offers comfort and posture support and that prevents disruptions, such as from a partner or pet. Also, know that cheaper mattresses, such as innerspring mattresses, need to be replaced sooner than higher-quality beds made from memory foam or other materials, costing more in the long run.
You may get free toothbrushes from the dentist that are good in a pinch, but electric toothbrushes are generally better at polishing your pearly whites. Keeping teeth healthy is worth every penny — especially considering how expensive dental bills can get.
If you genuinely enjoy cheap coffee, do you. But if you take pleasure in a morning cup, it may be worth it to splurge. Buying whole bean coffee as opposed to pre-ground allows you to get freshly roasted beans, which retain flavors for longer. You’ll also find more variety in terms of roast, origin, and taste notes. Some roasters and coffee clubs also offer discounts for subscribers, ensuring that you’ll always have a tasty cup.
If you’ve ever tried to watch a movie on a noisy plane with the freebie earbuds they hand out, then you know it’s worth upgrading to a nicer pair — not just for better sound, but for comfort. Good headphones will last longer and offer higher-fidelity sound, meaning you can keep the volume at a lower, safer level for your ears, but still hear your podcasts or music. They may also come with useful features, like noise cancellation or longer battery life, if wireless.
Anyone who predominantly works at a desk needs a good chair, whether that’s in the office or home office. Ergonomic features include lumbar, back, and neck support, with ample padding for comfort. You should also be able to adjust the height, tilt, and arm rests to fit your body. While cheaper chairs may offer some of these features, ensuring good posture and comfort will prevent pain and help you maintain productivity.
Takeout restaurants often provide cheap, reusable containers that are fine in a pinch, but quality containers last longer and hold up better in the microwave, fridge, dishwasher, and when transporting food. BPA free plastic and glass containers are both safer when it comes to dangerous chemicals leaking into your food. Plus, quality reusable containers reduce the need for single-use plastics.
For safety reasons, drivers shouldn’t skimp on tires. It’s best to choose the correct tire for your vehicle, driving style, and climate, and to practice proper maintenance and replace them when they’re worn. Customers can save money by considering fuel economy, and have peace of mind knowing they own tires that offer ideal traction, braking distance, and control.
Cheap, thin toilet paper is uncomfortable and easily breaks apart. But thicker paper, such as 3-ply tissue, may be worse for your plumbing system if it’s old. A happy medium would be to install a bidet, both saving money in the long run and helping out the environment and your home’s pipes at the same time.
Fast-fashion is popular because it allows people to build and rotate large wardrobes on the cheap. But it’s also terrible for the environment, comes with concerns about labor violations, doesn’t last, and is hard to offload as most pieces have little resale value. When it comes to wardrobe staples — things like jeans, belts, and solid-color shirts, sweaters, and skirts — it’s better to splurge on well-made, always-in-season classics that are easy to mix and match in a variety of timeless outfits that will last for years.