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It often seems too expensive to purchase items that are quality made, so we purchase second rate items thinking we will save money. We mistakenly believe this is all we can afford to do. However, if we can pull it off, we should be purchasing better quality items instead.
Why? Because we will save money over the long haul.
For instance, a sofa made years ago, while maybe not the most attractive, would last 10 to 20 years, depending on different factors within the home. Nowadays, a sofa might last 5 years. A cheaply made dresser made today may last 2 or 3 years in a childs’ room, while a sturdy one made from real wood may last the child until she graduates.
Say you purchase the sturdy dresser for $80.00. Your neighbor continuously purchase cheaply made dressers to “save money”. She ends up being able to make them last 3 years each, but ends up paying $30.00 each on 6 dressers over time. That is a total of $180.00… $100.00 more than what you spent. Even if you strip and paint the dresses for a new look when your child is a teenager, there is a huge savings on your part.
If you are lucky, you will be able to find a piece of furniture at a resale shop or a yard sale, or at least on sale. This requires patience on your part, but will be well worth the wait. The trick is not to be sucked in by low prices on items that are not quality made.
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I agree. Consumer Reports is a great tool to use when doing research before you make a purchase. Online reviews can be good too, but you have to watch out for fake ones.
Hi Shannon,
This is so true and I have done it myself many times assuming that I am saving money. Unfortunately I have learned the hard way! Thank you for your insights and your shopping pearls of wisdom!
Patti