17 Household Items That Are Wastes of Money

Ever feel like some things you buy for the house just aren’t worth it? Well, you’re not alone. This list of 17 household items might just make you think twice about what’s really necessary and what’s just eating up your money and space. From kitchen gadgets that are too niche to everyday products that do more harm than good, we’ve got the scoop on why these things might not deserve a spot in your home.

Electric Can Opener

Electric can openers take up valuable counter space and often malfunction, requiring manual intervention anyway. They consume electricity unnecessarily when a simple manual can opener does the job efficiently and without added cost. Over time, these gadgets tend to break down, leading to additional waste and expense.

Air Fresheners

These products might smell nice, but they do little to eliminate underlying odors, often just masking smells temporarily. Air fresheners can also release chemicals that might not be healthy to breathe in over time. They represent a recurring expense that could be avoided by using natural alternatives like essential oils or opening windows.

Electric Egg Cooker

While convenient, an electric egg cooker is a single-function device that takes up space. Boiling eggs in a regular pot does the same job without extra cost or clutter. These devices can also be a hassle to clean compared to a simple saucepan.

Oven Cleaners

Many oven cleaners contain harsh chemicals that can be harmful to your health and the environment. Rather than using these expensive and potentially dangerous products, opting for natural cleaning methods like baking soda and vinegar can be safer and just as effective.

Detergent Pods

Although they are convenient, detergent pods often cost more per load compared to liquid or powder detergents. They can also be a hazard in households with young children and do not always dissolve properly, which can lead to wasted product and money.

Robot Vacuums

Robot vacuums can be pricey and often fail to do as thorough a job as a traditional vacuum. They can struggle with different surfaces or get stuck, requiring human intervention.

Dryer Sheets

Dryer sheets are an ongoing expense that can be replaced by reusable wool dryer balls, which naturally soften clothes without chemicals or waste. Many dryer sheets also contain synthetic fragrances and chemicals that are not eco-friendly.

Coffee Pods

Although quick and convenient, coffee pods can be much more expensive per serving than buying whole beans or ground coffee. They also generate a significant amount of plastic waste unless specifically designed to be biodegradable or recyclable.

Bottled Water

Bottled water is not only expensive compared to tap water, but it also contributes to environmental pollution from plastic waste. Investing in a water filter can provide clean drinking water without the ongoing cost and waste of bottled water.

Sandwich Makers

While fun, sandwich makers often end up unused after a few initial uses and can only make one type of food. A good skillet can achieve the same results without additional clutter.

Egg Separators

Egg separators are often unnecessary as the same task can be accomplished with just the shell or your hands. It’s an added expense and another item to wash, which you could easily avoid.

Paper Towels

Using paper towels leads to a lot of waste and expense over time. Reusable cloths are a more environmentally friendly and cost-effective option for cleaning up spills.

Expensive Printer Ink

Printer ink is notoriously overpriced. Opting for third-party or refillable ink cartridges can save a significant amount of money in the long run.

Dusting Wipes

Pre-moistened dusting wipes are more expensive than using a reusable microfiber cloth that can be washed and reused many times. Additionally, they often contain chemicals that are not the best choice for you or the environment.

Electric Wine Opener

While it may add a touch of convenience, an electric wine opener is often more expensive and less reliable than a traditional manual wine opener. It’s another device that requires batteries or charging, adding to its operational cost.

Chemical Drain Cleaners

These products are not only harmful to the environment but often do not resolve deeper plumbing issues. Mechanical tools like a plunger or a snake can be more effective and do not introduce harsh chemicals into your home.

Carpet Powders

Carpet powders can seem like a quick fix for odors, but they can leave residues that may harm carpet fibers and exacerbate allergies. Regular vacuuming and steam cleaning are more effective and safer for your carpet and health.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout

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