I have a personal rule of thumb when it comes to buying things: never buy the cheapest of anything. This sounds like the reverse advice for money saving but in fact, over the long term you will save money with this method. Of course there are exceptions, but for the most part I always say to go with at least the second cheapest or better.
Remember that time you bought that super low-cost dental floss? I guarantee you weren't that excited about sticking that stuff in your teeth- it's so sharp you could cut bread with it, and it has that questionable "mint" flavor. If you buy the expensive floss or at least some decent stuff you'll be more likely to enjoy flossing, floss more, and in the long run that could save you $$$ on cavity fillings and cleaning costs! And not to mention better breath.
It works the same with clothes too. There's a few issues with buying really cheap clothes.
2. Cheap clothing usually has a shorter lifespan and just leads to more shopping trips and increased spending.
This is just what I've found works for me, and it applies to many consumer goods in our lives. Keep the idea in mind next time you're at the store and compare it to your shopping habits! And also remember that the best way to save is not buy the product at all!
Remember that time you bought that super low-cost dental floss? I guarantee you weren't that excited about sticking that stuff in your teeth- it's so sharp you could cut bread with it, and it has that questionable "mint" flavor. If you buy the expensive floss or at least some decent stuff you'll be more likely to enjoy flossing, floss more, and in the long run that could save you $$$ on cavity fillings and cleaning costs! And not to mention better breath.
It works the same with clothes too. There's a few issues with buying really cheap clothes.
- You care a lot less about cheap clothing because if it gets ruined or stained, you say 'oh well it was $8'. All this does is create waste and support cheap foreign labor. By buying more expensive, quality clothes (but less in quantity) you foster more of a love for your clothes, they most likely look nicer and are they're potentially produced in a better environment. Also consider locally made products, consingment and ecologically responsible companies like Patagonia. (Check out GoodGuide.com for company 'Good' ratings!)
2. Cheap clothing usually has a shorter lifespan and just leads to more shopping trips and increased spending.
This is just what I've found works for me, and it applies to many consumer goods in our lives. Keep the idea in mind next time you're at the store and compare it to your shopping habits! And also remember that the best way to save is not buy the product at all!