Sometimes we’re so intent on saving money in the now that we don’t think about how purchases could help us out down the road – a return on investment, so to speak. It’s important to think about how long a product will be useful or how often you’ll be able to utilize it when you’re deciding what and how to shell out the big bucks now.

And as always, we live to serve.

#12. DIY carpet shampoo.

You can shell out the big bucks a couple of times a year for a professional cleaning or you can take a few hours of your own time and do it yourself just as well.

#11. Reusable straws (and brushes).

Sure, they’re $15 but they last forever (in theory) and with more and more places banning plastic waste, are sure to come in handy.

#10. A five-ingredient cookbook.

It was made for poor college student, but seeing as many of us are living poor for years and years after college, it can definitely be a good investment for decades to come – all for less than $15.

#9. Reusable mesh produce bag.

Save yourself time and the hassle of pulling those dumb plastic bags at the grocery store AND help out the planet in the process with these reusable produce bags from Urban Outfitters.

#8. Handy-dandy grocery list.

It’s bound to save you time on return trips to the store, and time is money, after all!

#7. A good curling iron.

This beauty is guaranteed to save you countless trips to the salon or the dry bar, and give you loose, beachy waves for years to come. A no-brainer.

#6. Snack holders for kids.

You’ll save on baggies AND keep your floors and car (marginally) cleaner.

#5. Bug repellent that actually works.

No promises on whether it will or will not make you grow an extra spleen, but it will keep the mosquitoes away.

#4. This sponge stand.

It sounds weird and like a specialty item you don’t really need in your life, but consider this: your sponges will last so much longer if they’re allowed to air out and really dry between uses.

#3. Multi-use clear plastic tote bag.

This is great for people who spend time going to football, baseball, or soccer games where only clear bags are allowed – but it also works great for trips to the pool or beach.

#2. A disposable flask.

You can sneak in some booze and save yourself like half a million dollars at any given event, and if you get busted, you’re only out a few bucks.

#1. Nice gardening gloves.

Would you rather pay more for quality gloves once or replace them every season and watch your bill tally up? I know the right answer!

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