Setting up house for the first time can be a costly endeavor. Fortunately, if you recently graduated college or got married, you likely have plenty of giftcards or house warming presents to furnish your home. However, most people end up moving out on their own with very little money for furnishings. Between buying a couch and paying rent, you may find yourself short-changed for kitchen supplies. Included here are a few ways you can save money on your kitchen appliances.
Shop Used
To get started outfitting your kitchen, you will need to invest in a high quality saucepan and skillet. If you keep track of these items, you may not have to replace them for twenty years or more! Unfortunately, your initial cost to buy these items may be unbearably high.
One of the best places to find quality items can be in thrift shops. Cookware that is for sale in thrift shops has likely already been used for a number of years and has stood the test of time. You also will be able to find some name brands for a hugely discounted price than brand new.
Buy Cast-Iron
For those who enjoy adventuring in the outdoors, you know that good outdoor cookware is a necessity. One of the easiest ways to cut costs can be to buy heavy-duty cast iron cookware to use at home and when camping. Another great deal at your local thrift shops, cast iron can last for generations and actually can provide health benefits by increasing the iron content of your food.
Share Small Appliances
In your first apartment, storage space can often come at a premium. You do not have excessive space for storing a food processor, sandwich press, waffle maker and blender. An easy way to keep counters clear and wallets stuffed is to share these small appliances with friends.
Find out what your friends own and what they need so you can purchase one appliance for the rotation. This can be especially helpful if you live in an apartment complex and have a large group of neighbors to draw from. Some people may be especially protective of their cookware, but those just starting out are likely to want to share.
Utilize Layaway
Saving money can be one of the hardest tricks to learn as an adult. Moving out on your own means learning a budget and learning to leave some money in the bank account by the end of the month. If you are having a hard time saving for the future, consider utilizing layaway for those more costly appliances.
Layaway means a store will set aside the item you wish to purchase so you can make payments on it over time. It is a far more affordable means of securing your necessities over a short time period. Some companies will even allow you to finance your purchase, by taking it home and using it while you are still paying on it. While this is not usually advisable, because you will pay more in the long run with interest, it can help you get seating when you are couch-less.