There’s absolutely nothing wrong with being frugal. In fact, if many people worked harder at being frugal, they could truly change their own lives. However, there are a few products and services where going on the cheap is an extremely bad idea. In some cases, it is unhealthy to do so. In others, going cheap now means spending more money in the future. We all remember those situations when as a student, we opted for cheaper writing companies instead of choosing from the top writers list. Result? We had to spend the whole night doing the tasks ourselves! Now, check out the following 10 luxury items that are worth paying for to live your best life.
1. Beauty and Grooming Services
Looking and feeling great is very important. So important, in fact, that it is well worth paying a professional for any and all beauty and grooming services. Facials, manicures, pedicures, waxing, haircuts, and coloring are all services for which you should be willing to spend a nice amount of money. The results will last longer, the quality is better, and you deserve to be on the receiving end of some pampering.
2. Kitchen Utensils and Appliances
If your cooking interests stop at cooking frozen dinners in the microwave and ordering pizzas, you probably can get away with going cheap on your kitchenware. However, if you do any type of cooking, it is well worth spending money on high-quality brands. Decent appliances last for years and are backed by warranties. Well crafted, expensive knives last for decades with proper care, and they are safer than cheap ones. This rule even applies to small appliances. Buy a cheap coffee maker and you will replace it annually. Buy an expensive one, and you will give it to your child when they move into their first apartment.
3. Tools
Everybody should have a decent set of household tools. This includes a set of screwdrivers, hammer, flashlight, drill, wrench, putty knife, utility knife, and more. It can cost a few hundred dollars to put together a decent set of tools, but it is worth the cost. Well-made tools often come with a lifetime replacement guarantee. They are also easier to use and bring better results.
4. Shoes
This isn’t simply a matter of vanity; it is a matter of health. Poorly made shoes can aggravate feet and ankle problems. They can also make it difficult for somebody to get the right amount of exercise due to pain. A nice, comfortable pair of shoes that is well made is an absolute blessing. In fact, good shoes can be life-changing for somebody who suffers chronic back pain and other medical issues.
5. Your Wardrobe
Every wardrobe should contain a few high-quality items, and there should be no compromise when it comes to quality. These items might include any combination of the following:
- A tailored suit
- Work coveralls
- Heavy knit, lined, wool slacks
- Work-ready jeans
- A little black dress
- A heavy winter coat
Your specific needs may vary, but in general, it is good to make an investment in the clothes you wear every day.
6. Food
There is so much confusion and false information when it comes to food. Labels are deliberately designed to mislead people and make them believe they are consuming healthy products when they are not. On top of this, there is the issue of GMOs. One of the best ways to offset this is to purchase organic food, and in the absence of that to purchase food as locally possible. You may not see the environmental and health impacts right away, but you will notice an amazing taste different.
7. Sheets
Yes, this is really important. You will be amazed at how wonderful it feels to have a set of nice cotton sheets with a very high thread count. Sleep is so important. You should do everything possible to make your sleeping environment as comfortable as possible.
8. Mattresses
There’s no point in buying those luxurious Egyptian sheets if you don’t have a great mattress. Think about this. You spend between 5 and 10 hours per day sleeping. That’s more time than you spend in your car. Each mattress you buy lasts for nearly 10 years. Doesn’t it seem worth spending a couple of thousand dollars on a decent mattress? It may take you a year to save up for one, but your back and neck will thank you!
9. Coffee and Beer
Both of these items can be the nectar of the gods. They can also be horrible, bitter swill. Life is too short for a bad beer or cheap coffee. If your taste buds cannot convince you of this, maybe your conscience can. Workers who grow, harvest, and process coffee beans often work under harsh conditions for extremely low rates of pay. If you spend a little extra money on fair trade coffee, you help ensure that these workers are treated well. Go the extra step and buy from a local roaster, and you also support small businesses in your area. You can also support small business, and enjoy some great beer, if you purchase your beer from a local or regional microbrewery.
10. Hair Face and Skin Products
Not all beauty products are the same. If you are buying these products at the dollar store, or you are constantly switching brands to get the cheapest price, stop. For the next month, try using only salon-quality products.