As Americans, we generally have way too much stuff. There are everyday items that we really do need, but these are few and far between. For the most part, our items range between stuff we could live without and stuff that is just complete and utter junk taking up space. If you’re trying to downsize or just want to start being smarter with your money, we can help! We’ve come up with a list of 5 everyday items that are worth a little more money, as well as a list of 5 items that you can either buy cheaply or just not buy at all. We’ll start with our more worthy list first!
- A good, solid couch: You can find a couch just about anywhere you look. Browse through the free listings on Craigslist or check out your local Freecycle chapter, and you’ll see that they’re everywhere. You can also pick up a cheap one at your local discount store, but none of these are really smart moves. Couches get used a lot, so it’s best to invest in one that is going to stand the test of time and last and last for you!
- A good-for-you mattress: It’s recommended that people get in at least 8 hours of snooze-time per night. When you tally it up, that’s a lot of time spent on your mattress. If you want to sleep better, be healthier, and protect your back and posture, you need a quality mattress that won’t put a strain on you while you slumber.
- Green Alternatives: Whether it’s an energy-efficient car or solar operated appliances, it’s always a good idea to invest in green alternatives to traditional products. Not only do they usually end up saving you money in the long run, but they also do something much more important—they help protect our world for future generations.
- A Security System: Installing a quality security system for your home is always a smart thing to do. Yes, you might have to pay some steep upfront fees and perhaps deal with a monthly charge on top of that, but nothing beats knowing your loved ones and your valuable possessions are safe. You really can’t put a price-tag on peace of mind.
- Premium Pet Food: If you’ve got kitties or puppies at home and are skimping on their food by buying store-brand or other cheap products, you’re not doing your furry friends justice. Name-brand and all natural foods are best for your four-legged friends. Other foods are nothing but filler and junk, and a steady diet of them can shorten a pet’s lifespan and cause health problems.
Now that you’ve seen what you should be investing in , let’s take a look at the areas where it’s okay to scrimp and save.
- Generic Household Products: Do you really care about the brand of toilet paper you use? After all, no matter what logo is on the package, you’re still going to use it for the same purpose. This is true for cleaning products and other household basics, like garbage bags and salt and pepper as well. Nine times out of ten, you can spend less by opting for the generic item and get a product that works just as well.
- Almost All Electronics: If you’re someone who has to rush out and get the latest new phone or laptop, you’re spending a lot of money! Electronics are great, but ask yourself why you feel so compelled to have the newest, the best, and the most expensive items. Trying to impress people is not worth emptying out your bank account, and you’re much better off just getting a basic phone or other electronic item.
- A New Car: Just as it’s tempting to have the nicest, newest electronics, it can also be tempting to buy that brand spankin’ new car. Really though, why spend more when there are tons of great used cars out there. We strongly suggest thinking twice before you finance your life away for a new set of wheels.
- Food: If you’re like most Americans, then your cupboard is probably stocked with processed convenience foods. Not only are these foods overpriced, but they’re also downright bad for you! Do yourself and your body a favor by opting for affordable and nutritious fresh foods instead.
- Coffee: Are you guilty of making the morning Starbucks run? If so, you could be spending as much as $35 per week on your little coffee shop addiction. Since that adds up fast, we strongly suggest investing in a good quality coffeemaker instead. You can sleep in later too!
Check Out:
- Restaurant Night at Home: A Great Saving Technique
- Extreme Couponing for Beginners
- Tips on Eating Right on a Limited Budget
- Five ways to reducing monthly bills in the UK
- Appliance Repair or Replace: To Buy or Not To Buy?
- Top 10- Nicest Affordable Cars
- Offline and Online Discount Coupons
- How to Have a Beautiful Wedding on a Budget
- Don’t Cut Back Here- Where Saving Money Can Cost You
Money Advice from Amazon:
- There Are No Dumb Questions About Money: Answers and Advice to Help You Make the Most of Your Finances
- Stuff About Money: No BS Financial Advice for Regular People
- From Ramen to Riches: Building Wealth in Your 20s: Or Spending, Saving, Investing and Managing Your Money to Get Rich Slowly, but Surely
- Right on the Money: Financial Advice for Tough Times. by Pat Robertson
- Make More, Worry Less: Secrets from 18 Extraordinary People Who Created a Bigger Income and a Better Life