Rachel Cruze: 11 Things You Should Never Buy Cheap and Why
Written by
Ashley Donohoe
Edited by
Cory Dudak
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People who are living on strained budgets or trying to save more for goals do benefit from shopping more frugally for many items. However, going cheap on some things can not only lead to disappointment and frustration, but also cost more for replacements or repairs later.
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In her recent YouTube video, financial influencer Rachel Cruze warned against 11 things shoppers should never buy cheap, and explained why paying for quality matters.
Stanley Cups
Budget-conscious shoppers might grab a cheap drink bottle at Five Below or Walmart rather than splurge around $30 to $50 for a Stanley. However, according to Cruze, those copycats don’t match the original’s quality when it comes to keeping drinks cold.
To avoid disappointment but still save money, check for promotions on Stanley’s website and Amazon deals. Plus, consider opting for a smaller bottle or one from a cheaper Stanley line.
Tweezers
While tweezers seem like a basic beauty tool to pick up at the dollar store, Cruze found that paying for a good pair makes a big difference. Otherwise, the tweezers might be too thick to grasp hairs and other tiny things precisely.
Consider checking for store coupons and sales to save on high-quality tweezers from a good brand.
Beauty Products and Clean Sunscreen
Those who are health conscious should especially beware of going cheap on sunscreen and beauty products that may contain subpar ingredients. According to Cruze, buying high-quality versions of these products is like investing in oneself, and has long-term benefits.
Cruze mentioned that some of her favorite clean sunscreens include Supergoop! for herself and Blue Lizard for her children. While these products are costlier than generics, using a health savings account (HSA) or flexible spending account (FSA) may be an option besides looking for discounts.
Travel Gear
While fancy luggage can have unnecessary features and a huge price tag, picking up a cheap suitcase can cause problems later when the wheels start acting up. This is another case when paying for better quality upfront is wiser.
Cruze said, “You don’t have to get the top of the line, but go ahead and spend some extra money and don’t get the cheap one.”
Try looking for travel gear deals during major holiday sales or outside the peak summer travel season. Buying used luggage in good condition can be another way to save.
Car Maintenance and Supplies
According to Cruze, being too frugal on car items and maintenance can ultimately cost more due to quicker replacements. It can even create safety issues when cheap tires don’t have good traction on wet roads, or wipers don’t properly clear the windshield.
While acknowledging some people might not be in the financial place to splurge, Cruze advised paying more to get good car products when possible. Manufacturer rebates, seasonal sales and dealership promotions could help lower costs.
Hair Dryers
Bathroom appliances are another area where it pays not to go cheap. Hair dryers are one good example, since cheap models can be too noisy and take too long to dry the hair.
Cruze said she’s had her high-quality hair dryer for about eight years, which shows that paying a bit more can mean a longer-lasting product. Taking time to research affordable yet efficient models could save some frustration and extra dollars in the long run.
Electric Toothbrushes
A good electric toothbrush is important since it directly impacts oral health and possibly future dental bills. The no-name brands might lack helpful features like timers, or otherwise not last very long.
Cruze explained that the name-brand electric toothbrush she purchased at Bed Bath & Beyond is still working after 15 years. Her ongoing cost is just replacing the brush heads. Some manufacturers, including Oral B, offer rebates and discounted electric toothbrush sets that can suit frugal shoppers.
Child Care
A U.S. Department of Labor study estimated families could spend anywhere from $5,940 to $19,040 per year on child care expenses for one child. Despite the huge cost, it’s not worth sacrificing a child’s safety or a good environment to save money. Cruze emphasized vetting child care providers to find a quality option.
In a Ramsey Solutions blog post, Cruze highlighted some money-saving options, including having family help, changing work schedules, researching tax credits and getting help through funding for low-income individuals.
Paper Towels
While generic paper towels may more easily fit into the budget, they can end up being a frustrating waste. That’s why Cruze prefers to stick to Bounty.
“I’ve gone cheaper before, and I’m telling you, it just doesn’t work as well, and you end up using more paper towels,” said Cruze.
Clipping coupons, checking weekly ads and joining store loyalty programs may help ease the cost of the name brands.
Garbage Bags
Garbage bags are another kitchen product Cruze advised paying more for in order to get quality. Cheap, thin bags can easily tear, leading to a mess and waste.
Besides shopping during sales and finding coupons, buying name-brand trash bags in bulk can save some money per bag.
Tennis Shoes
Those who are athletic or stay on their feet should especially avoid buying cheap tennis shoes that are often generally uncomfortable, wear out more quickly or don’t provide proper support.
Cruze suggested having at least one high-quality pair from brands like Adidas or OnCloud. These shoes don’t necessarily have to be expensive, though, since some stores offer older styles on clearance or even “buy one, get one” deals.
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