Buy Quality or the Cheapest?

The past few weeks, I have been one frustrated Momma! My top of the line Maytag dryer AND Maytag dishwasher have both broken. They were both only about 3 years old. The dryer had to have the drum replaced (over $100 just for the part) and it seems ok now. The dishwasher however seems like a lost cause.

My parents grew up during the depression era and were always frugal. One thing they did do was buy nice appliances. The vacuum was always an Electrolux that would last well over 20 years. The appliances were Maytag or Kenmore. My dad always said you might pay more for the appliance but it would save you money in the long run, because it would work better, be more reliable and last much longer.

For many years, I didn’t really listen to him. To be honest, I usually just didn’t have the money to buy the nicer appliances. I used to always buy the cheapest model available. And it would only last me 2-3 years before breaking down. The vacuums didn’t even last that  long. They were lucky to make it a year. With multiple kids and dogs, I think it was just too much for any cheap vacuum to handle.

About six  years ago, when I finaly went through my 2nd vacuum cleaner in one year, I used my tax return money and bought a Dyson. I cringed at the $500 price tag but I figured if it was as good as they claimed, it would be worth it. I was pleasantly surprised to find out that it was all it was cracked up to be. It still works great and has been worth the money.

Since I has such good luck with the Dyson, I decided to buy other quality appliances when  I needed to replace an old appliance. So I bought a top of the line Maytag dishwasher and dryer. And they didn’t last any longer than the cheaper models I always bought in the past!

So now, I’m wondering. Is it worth it to buy quality appliances or should we just go with the cheapest? I have mixed feelings about it. What do you think?

Today’s Quote: “There are some people who live in a dream world, and there are some who face reality, and then there are those who turn one into the other.” —Douglas Everett

Today’s Life Tip: To help your disposable razors last up to 10 times longer, first rinse it thoroughly to get rid of all the hair stubbles. Then dry it for a few seconds with the heat from your blow dryer. Do not store it in the shower.