15 Wise Household Investments That Pay for Themselves Over Time
CindySplurging on expensive household items might seem like nothing more than a financial burden, but if you’re a savvy shopper, some investments could actually save you money by improving the efficiency of your home and improving your quality of life. So, whether you’re a new homeowner or interested in upgrading a few items around the house, the following are the top fifteen household items you should invest in.
1. Ceiling Fans
A comfortable home is cool in the summer and warm in the winter, but achieving that comes at a cost. Ceiling fans are an incredible investment for regulating household temperature. During the summer, they make your home feel much cooler, and during the winter, you can set the fan to spin in reverse to make the room warmer.
2. High-Quality Vacuum
What’s more important, saving a couple hundred dollars or ridding your home of dust and allergens? A high-quality vacuum might seem like a significant investment upfront, but it has much better durability and efficiency than cheaper alternatives. Although some good-quality vacuums can cost over $1,000, if you take good care of your vacuum, it could last up to ten years.
3. Digital Shower
Imagine no longer standing in the shower, adjusting the temperature until it’s just right. With a digital shower, you can automatically set the temperature and pressure before entering the bathroom. These showers also have features for pausing the water flow or setting a timer on your shower to make you aware of your daily water and energy use.
4. Quality Mattress
Do you have back pain, insomnia, and allergies? These are clear signs of a bad mattress. Many people don’t realize the importance of investing in a high-quality mattress and opt for a cheaper option. But if you want a better night’s sleep and fewer health issues, investing in a quality mattress will be one of the best purchases you make.
5. Automatic Cat Litter Tray
Animal lovers don’t mind spending a few extra dollars to spoil their pets, but high-end gadgets are where many people draw the line. While it might seem easier to clean and dispose of your kitty litter yourself, an automatic tray will keep your home looking and smelling cleaner while using less litter.
6. Bidet Toilet
Bidet toilets are a hygienic and environmentally friendly investment that every bathroom needs. A high-end bidet toilet will reduce the need for toilet paper, warm the seat, and wash and dry you, making for a luxurious bathroom experience that’s definitely worth it.
7. Solar Water Heater
Solar water heaters are an excellent investment for anyone who loves a hot shower. While they’re a larger investment up front, with an average base price between $2,000 to $9,000, these energy-efficient heaters are worth every penny.
8. Motion Sensor Bathroom Lights
Turning off lights in the home when they aren’t in use is a smart way of saving money, but that’s easier said than done, especially in the bathroom. Motion sensor lights that are dimmable and programmable will only come on when you need them and shut off once you walk away, saving money on your electric bill.
9. High-Quality Knives
Cooking should be an enjoyable experience, but without the right tools, you might find yourself dining out more often. A set of high-quality knives is expensive. However, once you take proper care of them and sharpen them every few months, they can last you a lifetime.
10. Hot Tub
Hot tubs are usually associated with luxury spending, but installing one at your house is a smart investment for your health. They help relieve muscle aches and pains, lower blood pressure, improve your sleep, and are heart-healthy. Purchasing a hot tub is an easy and fun way to reduce healthcare costs down the line.
11. Sprinkler System
I know what you’re thinking; why would you need a sprinkler system when you could use a regular garden hose? Many people don’t realize automatic sprinkler systems save money by reducing water waste. There’s no way to gauge how much water you use when watering the lawn with a hose. Sprinklers distribute water evenly and in short bursts to ensure your yard is adequately hydrated without wasting excessive amounts of water.
12. Automatic Espresso Machine
Several people leave their homes and head to the closest coffee shop every morning. However, the cost of a cup of coffee at your local Starbucks is significantly higher than making a cup at home. While it might seem like a splurge initially, an automatic espresso machine will quickly pay for itself over time by saving you from spending upwards of $6 on your daily cup of coffee.
13. Water Filter
How much do you spend on bottled water every year? Purchasing a high-quality water filter will provide you with just as clean as bottled water without spending additional money. It also prolongs the life of appliances like a kettle or coffee maker by removing minerals that cause buildup.
14. Robotic Vacuum
Did you know the average American will spend nearly 300 hours per year cleaning their home? Robotic vacuums reduce the time you would spend cleaning by automating your household vacuuming. If you hire a cleaner, this gadget will also cut down on cleaning costs.
15. Smart Thermostat
Investing in energy efficiency is one of the best ways to reduce household expenses. A smart thermostat might have a large price tag up front, but by learning your schedule, it can automatically adjust the heating and cooling of your home to help save energy and money.
She started her blog, The Money Dreamer, when she realized the 9-5 job was not the lifestyle she wanted anymore. After designing for a while, she wanted a more meaningful life, which was freedom, so she decided to venture out. She took action so that she can live her dream life and decided to help people to live theirs by helping them how to save, budget, and invest.
