Shopping for quality: when the cheapest option isn’t always the best option

Many products made today are designed to be affordable and when this happens the quality and durability of the item often suffers.

While saving money in the short-term may be appealing, there are times when it makes sense to pay a bit more for a higher quality item.

Here are some things to consider.

Background

Many companies prioritize speed and cost-efficiency over durability. Clothing brands, for example, create multiple collections every year. They leverage the latest trends to get it online or to a showroom, often by using cheaper materials and shortcuts in manufacturing to keep costs low. This is often called designed obsolescence. Here are some examples:

• Clothing. Choose $10 shirt that looks tatty after 6 months of consistent wearing or buy a $40 shirt that lasts for many years.

• Electronics. Choose a cheaper TV or computer, that will need updating sooner or pay for higher-quality items that could last between 3 and 5 years.

• Furniture. Particleboard furniture can break or warp very quickly, while solid wood furniture can last for decades with proper care.

When to Prioritize Quality

Here are several situations where you may want to prioritize quality over the least expensive option:

• Products that affect your health and safety. Medicine, baby products, helmets, tires … certain products such as these may pose a risk to your health and safety if defective.

• Items you use every day. For things you use frequently, such as shoes, mattresses, appliances, or electronics, quality products tend to provide better comfort and durability.

• Tools and equipment. Poor quality can hinder your performance if you use tools for your job or hobbies.

• Experiences and services. Whether it’s going on vacation or choosing a contractor, going with the cheapest option may lead to more headaches.

• Items with long-term value. You may want some purchases to last a lifetime, or to even be passed down to your kids or grandkids.

Tips for Finding High-Quality Items That Last

• Research materials and craftsmanship. High-quality items are often made from superior materials and crafted with care. Before you buy, take the time to learn about what makes a product durable.

• Focus on timeless designs. A navy blue blazer or standard blue jeans will probably never go out of style. The same is true with a lawnmower that has a quality engine driving it. A great sofa or classically designed table with a well constructed frame will be more expensive, but will last much longer and not go out of style.

• Shop for brands that have a reputation for quality. Certain brands have built their reputations on producing durable, high-quality products.

• Do research. Non-profit sources like Consumer Reports often have objective ratings of quality items we use every day. In addition, there are crowd sourced ratings of many products and services. The key is to try to find the best quality for the best price. It can be done with a little homework on you part.

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