When it comes to furnishing a new apartment, it’s easy to go a little overboard. It’s fun to spend money on trendy wall decor and kitchen gadgets, but are they really worth it?
Some expensive apartment essentials, like a mattress and a couch, are worth investing in. However, some things just aren’t worth the cost when you’re living on a budget. If you’re furnishing your new apartment, you might want to consider skipping these six expensive household items that are a waste of money.
1. High Thread-Count Sheets
Sheets are obviously a sound purchase, but the most expensive sheets aren’t necessarily better than other options. While many companies market their 1,000 thread-count bedding as being much more luxurious, in reality, there’s not a noticeable difference after about a 400 thread count.
So while you may want to go for something higher quality than jersey cotton for a more sumptuous feel, you may not be getting your money’s worth if you’re buying the most expensive brands.
2. High-End Cookware
Like sheets, there are a lot of trendy cookware terms that make some pots and pans seem like higher quality than others. But for the average Joe, a mid-range set of nonstick cookware will perform just as well as a high-end All-Clad set. Before buying cookware, find three options at different price points, and do a little online research. It’s likely the medium-priced set will suit your basic needs.
You should also exercise restraint when buying all the kitchen gadgets and tools you think you’ll need. Whereas you’ll get a lot of use out of a can opener and small set of knives, you may not ever use that asparagus peeler or immersion blender you bought on an impulse.
3. Art
A quick perusal of Pinterest should prove there are enough do-it-yourself decor options around that an expensive piece of art isn’t usually a sound purchase. Unless you’re an art connoisseur or collector, you may want to skip paying for wall hangings and decor. Along with exploring DIY options, look for inexpensive art and decor pieces at secondhand and thrift stores.
4. Upscale Coffee Makers
Single-cup coffee makers, French presses, espresso machines and other upscale coffee appliances don’t just cost more upfront — they’ll cost you more in the long run than a basic drip machine.
Even when it comes to drip machines, though, the high-end versions don’t necessarily make much of a difference in the taste department. You want to avoid the lowest-priced coffee makers that may break, but look for machines in the $40 range for the right balance of quality and frugality.
5. Expensive Dishware
As with art, investing in expensive dishes and silverware isn’t necessary. Your style and taste will likely change through the years, and there are plenty of affordable options that look great when you’re entertaining. Check out CB2, Target or Kohl’s for stylish dishware on a budget.
6. Customized Storage
When it comes to buying storage options, make sure you’re thinking long term. Spending time finding an odd-sized shelf that fits perfectly into a weird nook in the back of your current closet may add some storage now, but it will be a waste of money if you can’t use it in your next place, too. Look for shelving, baskets and other storage solutions you’ll be able to use over and over in different ways as you move to new apartments.
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6 Expensive Apartment Items Not Worth the Money originally appeared on usnews.com
