They are savvy shoppers and curious minds! Have you ever wondered what items the pros use daily, but also swear by for their personal use as well… Today, you’re in luck because we’re going to take you on a journey, a journey to the wonderful world of Buy It For Life items.
OK, prepare yourselves, and let’s explore what truly makes a product BIFL and why even the most seasoned of pros are willing to spend their hard-earned money on them for their own homes.
Buy It For Life: A Philosophy of Sustainability and Value
Start with a bit of backstory. You’ll notice that the term ‘Buy It For Life’ is not just a catchy marketing term, but a play on a philosophy that existed before mass marketing and the idea to buy things just because. This is about finding Buy It For Life items that are made in such a way — and with such quality — that they can, in fact, last a lifetime (or close enough, anyway) and/or come with a warranty to prove it.
When most of us are hoping for a ‘throwaway’ culture, BIFL is a beacon of sustainability and value.
Why Choose to Buy It For Life Items?
But you might be thinking, “Sure, but don’t these Buy It For life items break the bank?” Well, yes and no. Yes, BIFL products usually are more expensive up front, but let’s stop thinking that for a second. Aren’t you saving money long term, if you buy something that you won’t need to replace every few years? And then there’s the peace of mind of owning something that won’t leave you high and dry when you need it most.
Spotting True Buy It For Life Items
So, what does it mean when we say buy something for life? Dee Warmath of the University of Georgia says BIFL is a modern twist on going old-school shopping. She explains that it only makes sense because of ‘where manufacturing has gone and a newer throw-it-away mentality.’
What is the rule of what is a real BIFL item? Sometimes you might have to do a little sleuthing. If you can, and can’t afford to spend the rest of your life taking care of them, look for products that have long warranties or guarantee policies. Reddit’s r/BuyItForLife is a gold mine of information, where years of collective wisdom are at your fingertips.
Environmental and Economic Benefits of Buy It For Life Items
We are going to talk about environmental and economic reasons why you should choose Buy It For Life items. Opting for durable, high-quality goods is not only saving you money in the long run but also choosing to reduce waste. Each BIFL item you purchase is one less piece of crap in a landfill.
Top Buy It For Life Items to Consider
Kitchen Essentials
- A cast iron skillet from Field Company is built to last for generations.
- Le Creuset’s Dutch ovens come with a lifetime warranty and combine beauty with functionality.
- The KitchenAid Artisan Series 5-Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer has been known to last decades.
Outdoor Gear
- Darn Tough’s indestructible socks.
- Leatherman’s Bond Multitool with its 25-year warranty.
- Osprey’s Daylite Backpack with a lifetime warranty.
Backyard Essentials
- The Solo Stove Pi Pizza Oven, with its lifetime warranty, ensures seasons of perfect pizzas.
Is BIFL Right for Everyone?
Obviously, of course, not every Buy It For Life product is a fit for everyone. Even though our lives and needs have changed, Dee Warmath reminds us. However, it’s important to think about if you’re going to use an item enough to justify spending.
Homewares and outdoor gear are prime examples of things that make wonderful BIFL purchases, but technology and fashion trends have shorter lifetimes.
Invest in Quality with Buy It For Life Items
Buy It For Life items are what you’re looking for when you’re hot in pursuit of these products that not only professionals use, but professionals buy for themselves, too. These products likely cost more upfront but they’ll last longer, perform better, and benefit the environment, so they are worth it.
So next time you’re about to make a purchase, ask yourself: Is this investment BIFL worthy? Just like your future self will thank you.lear. They are the embodiment of quality, the essence of durability, and the definition of value. So, the next time you’re contemplating a purchase, remember the BIFL Hall of Fame and choose wisely. Your future self will thank you for investing in a product that stands the test of time, just like the professionals do.
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The Best Buy It For Life Products, According To Forbes Vetted Editors
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