12 Products You Should Never Buy Cheap — and Where They’re Sold!
When it comes to shopping, it’s tempting to opt for the cheapest option available with the thought, “How can you go wrong?” Very easily. You can very easily go wrong. However, some products are worth the extra investment due to their impact on safety, performance, or longevity.
Here are 12 items you should never skimp on, along with where to find quality versions.
1. Car Tires
Cheap tires may seem like a good deal, but they can compromise safety on the road. Invest in reputable brands like Michelin or Bridgestone, available at certified dealerships and tire shops. There’s nothing more dangerous than putting your life in the hands of cheap rubber filled with questionable air.
2. Mattresses
A cheap mattress can lead to poor sleep quality and back problems. Look for quality mattresses from trusted brands like Tempur-Pedic or Sealy, found at specialty mattress stores. In the end, the price of a good mattress outweighs the price of spinal surgery later on.
3. Electrical Appliances
Want to burn your house down? Because this is how you burn your house down. Cheap electrical appliances may not meet safety standards and can pose fire hazards. Opt for reliable brands like Bosch or Samsung, available at reputable appliance stores.
4. Tools
Low-quality tools are prone to breaking, causing frustration and potential safety risks. Invest in durable tools from brands like DeWalt or Craftsman, sold at hardware stores and specialty tool shops. When it comes to safety, there’s nothing less safe than handling a power tool with sketchy manufacturing behind it.
5. Cookware
Do you want to eat your dinner or your dinner mixed with terrible residue from who-knows-where? Cheap cookware may contain harmful chemicals or have poor heat distribution. Choose high-quality pots and pans from brands like All-Clad or Le Creuset, found at kitchenware stores and department stores.
6. Shoes
We spend a lot of time on our feet and our shoes spend an equal amount on our feet too. Poorly made shoes can lead to foot pain and discomfort. Invest in supportive footwear from reputable brands like Nike or Adidas, available at shoe stores and online retailers.
7. Batteries
Want to run that new toy for your kids…for ten minutes? If so, then the least expensive option is for you. Cheap batteries may have short lifespans and leak, damaging devices. Opt for reliable batteries from brands like Duracell or Energizer, sold at supermarkets and electronics stores.
8. Paint
Low-quality paint can result in uneven coverage and poor durability. Choose premium paint brands like Benjamin Moore or Sherwin-Williams, available at paint stores and home improvement centers. Paint chips will be the least of your problems.
9. Sunglasses
Cheap sunglasses may not offer adequate UV protection, risking eye damage. Invest in quality sunglasses with UV400 protection from brands like Ray-Ban or Oakley, found at optical shops and specialty retailers. Nothing breaks easier than cheap sunglasses.
10. Bedding
Cheap bedding may be uncomfortable and wear out quickly. Look for high-quality sheets and pillows from reputable brands like Brooklinen or Pacific Coast, sold at bedding stores and department stores. You don’t want to have an uncomfortable sleep. That’s the whole point of sleep.
11. Kitchen Knives
Low-quality knives can dull quickly and pose safety hazards. Invest in sharp, durable knives from brands like Ginzu or Shun, available at kitchenware stores and specialty retailers. Rather than replace them every year, just get a brand that lasts.
12. Technology Gadgets
Cheap electronics may have limited functionality and reliability issues. Opt for reputable brands like Apple or Sony, sold at authorized retailers and electronics stores. The cheaper the tech, the less likely it is to be “cutting edge”.
Some Things Should Cost More
While it may be tempting to save money by purchasing cheap products, certain items are worth the extra investment for safety, performance, and longevity. By opting for quality versions of these 12 products, you can ensure a better experience and avoid potential risks in the long run. The trick is to spend money where it’s needed. When it comes to some things, you get what you pay for.
James Guttman has been a writer for over 20 years and a father of two from New York. He has written about many topics but has focused mainly on autism advocacy. James strives to show the positives of parenting his non-verbal son on his site, HiBlogImDad.com.