The Battle of Quality vs. Cheap

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Oftentimes, the problem with being frugal is that you inevitably need to spend money on something. When you know you need to spend money, it then become imperative to understand when it is worth spending more to purchase something of quality or when you should cheap out and spend as little as possible (or not even buy it at all). This handy-dandy cheat sheet will help you to decide when you should be splurging on a quality item and when you should be cheap, super cheap, so you can save your hard earned dollars.

Buy Quality

Items You Use Everyday

If you use it every day (be honest with yourself here), then it should be a quality item. Examples of quality items you use a lot may include towels; kitchenware like pans, plates, silverware; professional attire like suits; shoes you wear daily like dress shoes, sneakers; clothes you wear frequently like exercise clothes. Be truthful about the items you actually use everyday versus items you may want to use or would like to use everyday. Only the items that you actually use everyday fit in this category.

Items That Last a Long Time

If it is meant to last a long time and you plan on using it for a long time, then it should be a quality piece. These items may include tools that you know you will use; classic furniture (obviously, not made of particle board or of poor construction); classic jewelry like your wedding rings; and items you know will be cherished in your family for a very long time. 

When You Need Reliability

In my opinion, things do not seem to last as long as they used to, but it is still important to find quality items when you need reliability. Reliable items may include vehicles like your car; appliances like your dishwasher, washing machine; and other items where reliability is important. You do not need to get the most expensive item to ensure reliability. Take a car, for example, a more modest car may be more reliable than a luxury model. Do your homework and consider all of the costs with ownership.

Home Repairs

If you need to make repairs around your home, this is a time not to be cheap. Cheap repairs will inevitably cost you more in the long run. Try to avoid delayed maintenance and address issues as they arise. If you do make updates, try to make them timely and classic. Avoid trends and finishes that will not endure the test of time.

Be Cheap

Short Use or Single Use Items

If the item is only intended for a short use or a single use, it is definitely a good time to be cheap or avoid buying it in the first place. Short use and single use items could include clothes and items for special occasions; trendy shoes and clothes; children's clothes that they grow out of quickly.

Seasonal Items

This is similar to short use or single use items, but seasonal items are typically only used for a brief period of time and require space to store for long periods of time. Buy cheap or avoid holiday outfits; decorations; or the like.

Disposable Items

I've been reading a lot about minimalism recently and part of that philosophy is to avoid the purchase of disposable items where you are basically purchasing trash. Although I love the idea of avoiding the purchase of disposable items, practical life dictates that I need to buy these sometimes. Disposable items to always purchase on the cheap include diapers and wipes; paper products; and party goods.

Food

Because food is a big expenditure in our family, I always try to spend the least amount as possible on food. The best way to cheap out on food is to buy food that is in season and choose generic items. I look for sales and coupons, but only purchase items I would have purchased anyway. I also stock up my pantry on items I know we will used within a few months time.

Toiletries and Medications

Another area you can save big by being cheap is toiletries and medications. Same as food, always choose generic shampoo, soaps, makeup, toothpaste, medicines, etc. I even have found some great options at the dollar store.

Books/DVDs/Media

With the availability of online media and streaming options, I never spend money on books, DVDs, music, or other media. The library is also a fantastic resource and our family loves to go there weekly.

Of course, these lists are not all inclusive so before your next purchase think if it should be a quality item or a cheap item. Be sure to be honest with yourself and don't spend money unless you must!