We all want to save a penny/dollar here and there ; a Consumer Reports survey found 68% of it’s respondents who made over $75,000/yr said they shopped at the so called discount stores for everyday items. Accordding to Jeff Yeager, author of “How To Retire The Cheapskate Way”, there are some everyday items you shouldn’t go the cheapway on. Lots of these items you can find for less at more traditional stores, and the quality of the products may be better. Here are the experts findings:
Batteries- cheap batteries can leak ansd usually don’t last as long as a well known brand; no matter where you buy batteries, rememnber carbon zinc batteries aren’t as efficient and don’t last as long as alkaline batteries.
Canned Goods- canned goods at the grocery store usually cost less than $1; make sure you check the expiration date on all canned goods.
Chewing Gum- you’ll get a better price buying in bulk from a warehouse club, eg/Costco, Sam’s, B.J.’s or from drug stores or Big Box retailers.
Electronics- in 2012 Consumer Reports found elecrtronics and extension cords at the discount stores were mising the UL labels that verify their safety.
Foil and Plastic Wrap- you’ll find better quality at the traditional stores.
Knives- better quality at the traditional stores
Paper Goods (napkins, paper towels, toilet paper)- better quality at the traditional stores.
Soda- $1 for one liter of soda isn’t a good deal when a traditional store has a two liter bottle on sale for $1.
Tools- better quality at a traditional store; it’s recommended to always buy the best quality tools you can afford; they’ll last longer and make your job easier.
Toys- better quality at the traditional stores, according to Andrew Schage, co-owner of Money Crashers, a personal finance blog.
Vitamins- Consumer Reports in 2012 found off brand multi vitamins don’t always have the amount of nutrients it says on the label.
