We all enjoy buying things at bargain prices, but sometimes the old adage “you get what you pay for” rings true.
Here are some items you shouldn’t skimp on as a homeowner:
1. Light bulbs
High-quality CFL and LED light bulbs will last for years before needing to be replaced. Old-fashioned incandescent bulbs have mostly been phased out in Texas—they’re worse for the environment and don’t last as long—but luckily you can now get better lighting quality from the newer types of bulbs.
It’s a pain having to get out a stepladder and change light bulbs when they burn out, so maximize their lifespan by paying a little extra for quality.
2. Large appliances
For essential large appliances like fridges, stoves, and washer-dryers—which are known to break down from time to time—you may actually end up with more savings by purchasing them brand new instead of used. As the saying goes, “Buy it right or buy it twice.”
Consumer Reports offers some useful tips for getting the most out of your major appliances, along with guides for choosing the best one for you.
3. Mattresses
If you sleep for about eight hours a night, you’re essentially spending a third of your life in bed. Maximize comfort and wellbeing by purchasing a high-quality mattress with great customer reviews.
You may end up paying a pretty penny, but you’ll appreciate the quality after a good night’s sleep!
4. Garbage bags
After you’ve made the effort to keep your home clean and filled up the kitchen garbage can, the last thing you want is to have a cheap trash bag break open all over your floor.
Heavy-duty, flexible trash bags with built-in handles that cinch the top closed are great, and you may even like the scented ones that help mask bad odors.
5. Knives and other tools
A single good-quality chef’s knife is better than a set of 10 cheap knives from a big-box store. Cheaper knives get dull much faster, and when you use a dull blade, you’re forced to exert more pressure with each cut—increasing the likelihood of severe injury if you slip.
Other household tools that you use often should be good quality, too.
