Living on a budget is tough. You have to find places to cut some corners and save money, and that tends to be a challenge. One great way to cut down on spending is to buy cheaper brands–usually store brands–of household items and groceries. Items like peanut butter, crackers, bread, disinfecting wipes and other basic supplies are great store-brand savers. BUT, buying store brand isn’t always worth the extra savings. Sometimes, it’s just better to spend the extra dollar for better quality items that will last longer and do better.
Most often, I tend to spend the extra dollar on cleaning supplies. I’ve never understood why cleaning supplies are so expensive anyway, but the name brands are always better quality. I guess that’s justification enough.
So, here are my top six items to NEVER buy cheap. Shelling out a little more on these is so worth it in the end, and will save you lots of trouble!
Toilet paper // Sure, it’s toilet paper, and it isn’t used for anything glamorous, but we all know what it’s like to use not-so-great toilet paper (I’m trying to be delicate, here). Can we all agree that thicker, quilted, 2-ply rolls are the best? Yes, yes we can. Do yourself a favor and avoid the 1-ply and get something nice and soft.
Paper towels // Cheaper paper towels tear and break more easily, and don’t absorb as much as stronger name brands. Having good quality paper towels around will make your cleaning days much easier. Even if you’re on a budget, paper towels usually aren’t crazy expensive anyway.
Dish soap // The cheaper brands tend to smear, streak, or not clean your dishes completely. It may be pricier, but name-brand dish detergent/soap is an investment you’ll thank yourself for when you’ve got a sink full of plates and silverware.
I know what you’re thinking…
Kitty litter & litter box // Speaking from personal experience here… nothing is as gross and annoying to clean than a cheap litter box with litter that doesn’t make scooping out the contents easy and relatively clean. If you’re a cat owner, splurge on a nice, heavy, covered litter box and good, “clumping” litter that makes the whole experience easier (and less smelly) for both the cat and the owner. I also recommend some kind of mat to put underneath the box that will catch any stray litter the kitty might shake from its paws.
Razors // This goes for guys and girls. Cheap razors are bad. They just are. Don’t buy these cheap unless you want nicks and cuts all over your face, legs or underarms.
Trash bags // Cheap trash bags break much easier than thicker bags. Ever had a bag burst on you while you’re walking it to the dumpster, and have to gather up the mess in the middle of your apartment’s parking lot? Buy sturdier trash bags and you won’t have to experience that.
Store brand isn't always the best way to go. Check out 6 things to NEVER buy cheap! Click To TweetIf you’re on a budget, saving money anywhere you can is a high priority. However, some things are better left to the better brands. Balance it out by trimming a few dollars in other areas, like clothing or other activities. It’s worth it, trust me. Don’t learn the hard way like I did.
What do YOU think is worth buying name brands? When are cheap brands better? How do you change your spending when you’re on a budget?
