Single-use kitchen devices run the gamut from "sounds helpful" to "really?" It's wise to skip designated garlic peelers, melon wedgers, banana slicers, asparagus peelers, peach pitters, avocado cutters, and onion dicers — regular old knives and forks can handle fruit and vegetable prep just fine.
Three 'Useless' Purchases Worth Skipping
Useless purchases come in many forms: stuff that's used only a few times before being consigned to the basement or attic; stuff that's pricey to buy but could be rented instead; stuff that's outdated or soon-to-be obsolete; and stuff you just don't need to begin with. If you're looking to save money, avoid buying these 'useless' items.
Skip Single-Use Food-Prep Gadgets
Skip the Sandwich Press
Small kitchen appliances that perform only one task are money wasters for many consumers. Designated gadgets for quesadillas, paninis, subs, grilled cheese, and breakfast sandwiches accomplish nothing an ordinary kitchen appliance can't, and they create annoying cleanup and take up kitchen space until they're relegated to storage or a garage sale.
Skip Scented Trash Bags
Scented trash bags can cost almost double what non-scented ones do. Rather than paying extra to make trash smell good, use a smaller trash can and bags and take out the trash more often, or put garbage that's likely to stink into small plastic shopping bags and throw them out immediately.
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This edition is part of the Genius House Hacks archive — 20+ years of tips, rebuilt from the original Handy Hints newsletter. Browse more hacks →