Rashi Mehta
In our daily lives, certain products can make a significant difference by saving money, reducing waste, and simplifying tasks. These items not only enhance convenience but also contribute to sustainable living. Here are 18 everyday products, chosen by Guardian staff, that have proven their worth over time.
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Heated Throw
Cozy and Cost-Effective
For those who constantly feel cold, a heated throw is a lifesaver. It allows you to keep your heating bills low by providing targeted warmth exactly where you need it. Whether you’re curling up on the couch or warming your bed, a heated throw offers comfort and savings.
It’s especially useful for working from home during chilly days, doubling as a cloak or chair cover to keep you warm.
Buy: Dreamland velvet herringbone quilted heated throw, £94.99 at johnlewis.com
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Le Creuset Saucepans
Durable and Heat-Efficient
Le Creuset saucepans are renowned for their durability and superior heat retention. These thick, heavy iron pots maintain temperature effectively, allowing you to cook with less energy. By bringing your food to a boil and then turning off the heat, the retained heat continues to cook the food without additional energy consumption. This method is perfect for cooking pasta, vegetables, and other dishes, making these saucepans a valuable addition to any kitchen.
Buy: £185 at lecreuset.co.uk
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Storage Crates
Organization Made Easy
Staying organized can save you both time and money. Hay storage crates are a stylish and practical solution for keeping your home tidy. These crates can store anything from children’s medication to kitchen supplies, preventing the need to repurchase items you can’t find. By having a designated place for everything, you can reduce clutter and make your daily routine more efficient.
Buy: from £5.10 at utilitydesign.co.uk
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Window Film
Insulation on a Budget
Insulating your home can be an expensive endeavor, especially if double-glazing isn’t an option. Tesamoll Thermo Cover window insulating film is an affordable alternative that keeps your home warmer and reduces heating costs.
It’s particularly beneficial for those living in conservation areas where structural changes are restricted. This simple solution not only saves money but also enhances the comfort of your living space.
Buy: £7.55 at amazon.co.uk
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Cabin Bag
Travel Smart
Traveling can be costly, especially with airline baggage fees. An Eastpak cabin bag is designed to maximize packing efficiency and minimize costs. Its soft-sided design allows for more flexible packing, enabling you to fit more items. Ideal for both short and extended trips, this bag helps you avoid the high fees associated with checked baggage, making it a smart investment for frequent travelers.
Buy: £145 at eastpak.com
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Janome Sewing Machine
Creative and Practical
A basic Janome sewing machine is an invaluable tool for anyone interested in DIY projects and repairs. Over the years, it proves to be a cost-saving investment by allowing you to make and mend your own clothes, curtains, and other household items.
Whether you’re creating custom baby clothes as gifts or repairing a hem, this machine pays for itself through the savings on professional alterations and new purchases.
Buy: £279 at johnlewis.com
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Funnels
Economical and Satisfying
Using funnels to decant bulk-bought products is both economical and environmentally friendly. By purchasing large quantities of items like detergent, dish soap, and shampoo, and transferring them into smaller, reusable bottles, you save money and reduce plastic waste.
There’s also something incredibly satisfying about the process, making it a small but meaningful ritual in your routine.
Buy: Set of five Wanaone funnels, £8.59 at amazon.co.uk
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Vegetable Chopper
Healthy Eating Made Simple
Encouraging children to eat more fruits and vegetables can be challenging. A vegetable chopper simplifies meal prep by quickly dicing produce into appealing, bite-sized pieces.
This not only saves money on pre-cut vegetables but also encourages healthier eating habits. From making salads to preparing chips, a vegetable chopper is a versatile tool that enhances your kitchen efficiency.
Buy: Fullstar vegetable chopper and cutter, £19.99 at amazon.co.uk
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Food Thermos
Lunch Savings
Investing in a good food thermos can significantly reduce the cost of buying lunch every day. These thermoses keep food hot for hours, making them perfect for bringing home-cooked meals to work or school. Not only do you save money, but you also enjoy healthier and more personalized meals compared to typical cafeteria options. They are especially useful for children who prefer warm meals over sandwiches.
Buy: Thermos Stainless King Red Food Flask, £23 at argos.co.uk
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Patagonia Retro-X Vest
Durable and Reliable
For those who spend a lot of time outdoors, investing in high-quality gear is essential. Patagonia’s windproof Retro-X vest is a durable and versatile piece of clothing that stands the test of time. Despite its higher price, the vest’s durability and effectiveness in harsh conditions make it a worthwhile investment. Whether you’re fishing in cold climates or hiking in windy areas, this vest offers reliable protection.
Buy: £160 at Patagonia, £112 at ellis-brigham.com
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Schwalbe Marathon Plus Bike Tyres
Puncture-Proof Cycling
Cycling in urban areas often leads to frequent punctures, which can be both frustrating and costly. Schwalbe Marathon Plus bike tyres are designed to be puncture-resistant, significantly reducing the need for repairs and replacements. These tyres are particularly beneficial for daily commuters, offering peace of mind and saving money on public transport alternatives.
Buy: £35 at halfords.com
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Sparkling Water Maker
Sustainable and Economical
For those who love sparkling water, a sparkling water maker is a game-changer. It eliminates the need to buy bottled sparkling water, saving money and reducing plastic waste.
This appliance is a sustainable choice that allows you to enjoy fizzy drinks at home without the environmental impact of disposable bottles. It’s a perfect addition to any kitchen, providing convenience and eco-friendliness.
Buy: Philips GoZero Sparkling Water Maker, £83.99 at amazon.co.uk
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Heated Airer
Efficient Laundry Drying
Drying clothes in winter can be a challenge, especially without a tumble dryer. Lakeland’s heated airer offers a cost-effective and energy-efficient solution. It holds multiple loads of washing and dries clothes quickly, reducing the clutter of clothes drying on radiators and furniture.
This airer is not only economical but also helps maintain the quality of your clothes compared to tumble drying.
Buy: Lakeland Dry:Soon 3-Tier Heated Airer, £179.99 at lakeland.co.uk
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Bulk Nuts and Seeds
Cost-Effective Nutrition
Buying nuts and seeds in bulk is a smart way to save money while maintaining a healthy diet. These nutrient-rich foods can be expensive when purchased in small quantities, but buying in bulk reduces the cost per kilogram significantly.
Storing them properly in airtight containers ensures they stay fresh and ready for snacking or cooking.
Buy: Real Food Source organic Brazil nut pieces, £10.70 at realfoodsource.co.uk
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Cycle Stand
Bike Protection
A cycle stand is a simple yet effective solution for protecting your bike from damage. By keeping bikes organized and preventing them from knocking into each other, a cycle stand saves money on repairs and maintenance.
This is especially useful for shared living spaces where multiple bikes are stored together, ensuring that all bikes remain in good condition.
Buy: Mottez bike stand rack, £59.99 at halfords.com
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Screen Protector and Luggage Scales
Protect and Save
A screen protector is a small investment that can save a lot of money on phone repairs. For frequent travelers, a set of luggage scales is equally valuable, helping avoid overweight baggage fees.
These scales are particularly handy for last-minute packing checks, ensuring you stay within airline weight limits and avoid extra charges.
Buy: Spigen tempered-glass screen protector, £14.99 at amazon.co.uk; Luggage scale, £5.95 at diy.com
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Banham Locks
Security Investment
Home security is priceless, and Banham locks are among the best investments you can make for peace of mind. These high-quality locks are designed to withstand break-in attempts, offering superior protection for your home.
While they come at a premium price, the security they provide and the potential deterrence of burglaries make them worth every penny.
Buy: £294 at banham.co.uk
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Milk Frother
Barista at Home
A milk frother can transform your morning coffee routine, allowing you to create barista-quality drinks at home. This gadget saves money on expensive café visits and provides the satisfaction of making your own perfect cappuccinos and lattes.
It’s an excellent investment for coffee enthusiasts looking to enjoy high-quality beverages without leaving home.
Buy: Andrew James Multifunctional Electric Milk Frother, £39.99 at amazon.co.uk
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