Top of the list of items you should never scrimp on is… Mattresses. We couldn’t agree more. You spend 1/3 of your life sleeping – invest in your health and wellbeing. Read the article below for the list of other items you shouldn’t scrimp on.

Buying cheap doesn’t always pay off.

- Article By Money Hound. 20/7/2013

Frugalistas are the new fashionistas, with budgeting the new bling.

Whether you’re embracing minimalism to reduce wastage or tightening your purse strings as the economy weakens and the dollar falls, many people are swapping brands for bargains.

The key to making it work is knowing where to save and where to splash out.

Good quality products can be more expensive, but they often last longer, saving you money in the long run. Others may save your health, or even your life.

Here are 10 products you should never scrimp on.

1. Mattresses

What’s a good night’s sleep worth? With research showing Australians are chronically sleep deprived, leading to lifestyle-related illnesses, don’t skim on a comfortable bed.

2. Knives

A good-quality chef’s knife will last years – some handmade Japanese ones last for generations. Cheap knives are worse at chopping food and rapidly degrade.

3. Shoes

Shoes are bad for our feet regardless – studies show that we still haven’t evolved to wear them. Ill-fitting shoes cause even more problems, from bunions to backache, so invest in something comfortable that won’t disintegrate on the first rainy day.

4. White goods

Never buy old, used white goods – they’re far less energy efficient and you could run up a big bill if they break down out of warranty or even flood your home. Modern washing machines will save you energy and water.

5. Car seats

This is a no-brainer. When an infant’s life is at stake, you want to buy a reliable, quality car seat that meets Australian safety standards and have it professionally fitted.

6. Business suits

Better to have one well-cut, smart, flattering suit than a week’s worth of cheap ones. Classic tailoring and quality fabric will last for years, and you can easily accessorise it for variety.

7. Bicycle helmets

Don’t be tempted to pick up a used one cheap at a garage sale. It could have hidden damage that reduces its protection.

8. Batteries

Cheap batteries are a false economy. They end up costing as much or even more in the long run than high-quality batteries. Plus you have the added hassle of having them run down at critical times and endlessly having to install new ones.

9. Power cords

Scrimping on cheap power cords and extensions can be a fire or electrical hazard. Cheap cords can even damage expensive electronic goods, with some iPhone cables recalled as a fire risk.

10. Tools

Cheap tools are cheap junk. Screwdrivers, pliers, hammers and wirecutters need to be tough and well-made if they are to do the heavy work for you. A tool that falls apart or buckles is also a safety risk.

When buying a quality item, remember that it’s about durability and not about brand. Many high-end, luxury goods can be flimsy and not worth their price. Search product review sites and buying guides before you buy – and don’t skip the user comments with their often-valuable added knowledge and experience.