In our fast-paced, consumer-driven society, the allure of fast fashion and disposable products can be hard to resist. But what if we shifted our focus from the fleeting to the long-lasting? How do we ensure we’re spending wisely on items that endure?
The True Cost of Fast Consumption
We live in an age of instant gratification, where fast food, on-demand, same-day delivery are the rules we play by. Unfortunately, this has led to a mass influx of disposable goods, cheap products, and poor quality. And, believe it or not, that’s just the start.
Fast consumption not only has an impact on our wallets, but it also directly affects the environment. Take fast fashion as an example. The fashion industry is the second-largest consumer of water globally and produces 10 percent of all humanity’s carbon emissions.
Socially, the demand for rapidly produced goods leads to exploitative labor practices, with workers in factories subjected to long hours, poor conditions, and low wages. By supporting these industries, we end up indirectly supporting these practices.
At first glance, you might think fast consumption is economical. After all, buying a $10 shirt or $5 toy is cheaper than buying a $50 shirt or $40 toy. But what if that shirt wears out after 10 wears, or the toy breaks in two days?
The adage “buy cheap, buy twice” rings true in this context. Over time, the cumulative cost of replacing low-quality items can surpass the initial investment in a more durable, albeit pricier, alternative.
Tips for Buying Things That Last
In a world where products are often designed for obsolescence, finding quality items can seem like a daunting task. However, with a little diligence and know-how, you can make purchases that not only meet your immediate needs but also stand the test of time.
Here are some tried-and-true tips to guide you in your quest for durability and quality:
- Do your research. Always research before buying something. Do your homework by reading reviews, examining the materials, and comparing it to other alternative products. You should also consider how long a product has been on the market. If something has been on the “shelf” for 10 years, you can bet it’s probably pretty durable. But if it just popped up last week, you should be slightly more hesitant.
- Check the warranty. Does the product come with a warranty? And if so, for how long? Products with long warranties are much less risky to the consumer. Not only does it give you a safety net, but it also implies that the product is going to last. Products without warranties should be avoided.
- Avoid impulse buys. Never buy something on an impulse. These purchases are almost always driven by emotion – not logic. And it’s emotion that will lead you down a dangerous path of compromise.
- Prioritize quality materials. If you want to buy quality items, you need to understand the difference between cheap and quality materials. There’s no better way to explain this than by looking at footwear – boots in particular. Most of the cheap boots you see in stores are made from synthetic leather and plastic. (These materials are weak and eventually give out.) Handmade leather boots, on the other hand, are made from genuine leather and stitched together. This means they last years longer (and are more comfortable). Whether it’s boots, cars, or phones, prioritize quality materials and you’ll get better results.
- Gather recommendations. Sometimes, the best insights come from personal experiences. Reach out to friends, family, or colleagues and inquire about products they’ve cherished over the years. You can also find online communities and message boards that offer reviews and recommendations. For example, a grateful dead trucker hat can go with many outfits.
- Consider cost-per-use. Instead of fixating on the initial price tag, think about the item’s cost over its expected lifespan. This is known as the cost-per-use. An item that’s slightly pricier but lasts for years can offer better value than a cheaper counterpart that needs constant replacement.
These are just a few tips. But if you start implementing them as personal rules for buying new products, you’ll find that you no longer have to constantly replace household items and goods. Instead, you’ll have things that last the test of time.
Buy Quality the First Time!
If you want to make sound, long-term buying decisions, it’s almost always to buy a more expensive, higher-quality item upfront. It might put a bigger dent in your wallet today, but you’ll be thankful in the years to come. Plus, you have to remember the social and environmental consequences of buying fast consumption items. By investing in higher-quality alternatives, you’re doing your part to have a less negative impact on the world around you.
