Upgrade This, Not That — 3 Items Worth Splurging on and 3 To Buy Cheap
Written by
Laura Bogart
Edited by
Kristen Mae
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Even if you’re the most casual social media scroller, you’ve likely seen content creators espousing the virtues of “underconsumption.” From embracing reusable goods to forgoing shopping splurges, tracking down free fun in your town to getting super-strict about your grocery budget, going minimal is trending right now. But that doesn’t mean you won’t need to upgrade certain items.
How do you know which goods demand a little extra investment and which don’t require big spending? Generally, anything that impacts your safety, health, earning power, or that you’ll use every day for the long run merits a splurge. If it’s something you won’t use much or can replace easily, odds are you don’t need to break the bank on it.
Here’s a guide to items worth upgrading –and those you can comfortably buy on the cheap.
Upgrade: Your Mattress
Not having a sturdy mattress can be a real pain in the neck. And the back. And, well, other areas — you get the point. A poor-quality mattress can not only impact the quality of your sleep, it can also harm your health, curtailing your ability to work, play, and enjoy life.
High-quality mattresses typically last eight to 10 years, making them a worthy investment in your health and well-being. While you’re at it, consider splurging on bedding made of natural fibers, which can last much longer and provide additional comfort for your money.
Go Cheap: Cleaning Supplies
You can have a home that looks like a million bucks without spending nearly that much on keeping it clean. There’s no real demonstrable difference between generic store-brand cleaners and the pricier, more elite brands you see advertised on television. They often have the same ingredients, which means you’re paying more for flashy packaging. Stick with the affordable options — they’ll get the job done just as well.
Upgrade: Your Car Tires
Wanting to save every penny you can when it comes to your car is understandable, but skimping on tires is a bad idea. The risks of using subpar tires — like blowouts on a busy highway — far outweigh the savings. Research the best tires for your car and climate, then consult your mechanic or your friend who’s a car expert, and get quality tires for your vehicle. Your car’s longevity, and your safety, are worth the extra cost.
Go Cheap: USB Charging Cables
In a world where everyone is plugged in, USB cables are a necessity — but not worth splurging on. There’s no reason to buy the most expensive brands, since they don’t perform noticeably better than budget-friendly options, and wear and tear is inevitable. A $10 charging cable will bring your phone back to life as effectively as a $50 one, so save your money for something more impactful.
Upgrade: Your Cookware
Sure, you can find pots and pans at thrift stores or dollar stores. They’re certainly less expensive than other options, but the quality and safety may be questionable. You may not know how old they are or how well they’ll hold up to your daily cooking. Old or poorly made cookware might crack under heat or shed coatings into your sautéed salmon. That’s not a risk you want to take.
You’re better off investing in brand-new, high-quality cookware, even if it means paying a higher price. Remember, you use this cookware regularly — every day, if you’re saving money by eating at home — so you’ll get your money’s worth.
Go Cheap: Kitchen Utensils
At the end of the day, all measuring cups are created equal. Ditto for spatulas or cooking spoons. There’s no demonstrable difference in how well a whisk from the dollar store performs compared to that one released by your favorite celebrity chef — except for the price. Use your savings from buying inexpensive utensils to splurge on high-quality cookware, where it truly matters.
By focusing your splurges on items that improve your safety, health, and daily life, and shopping smart for less critical items, you can enjoy luxury where it counts — without breaking the bank.
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