#21 It Is With Grave Sorrow That I Announce Our 52 Year Old General Electric Refrigerator Has Chilled Its Last Grocery (Defrost Heater No Longer Available)
“For example, every part of their couches can be repaired. They offer replacement components for sofa legs, pillowcases, cushion covers, and even inserts. This makes it so much easier to keep the same couch for years to come, even if one part of it gets damaged.
And my own company Kayaness is focused on sustainable design in our products. We make reusable period underwear with matching loungewear. From sourcing thicker and heavy-duty materials, manufacture in house to have the greatest control over quality to produce a garment that should stand the test of a lot of use and washes.”
#22 A Palette Knife I Bought Brand New More Than 30 Years Ago — I Created Countless Paintings With It
#24 Clark Stopwatch. It Caught My Eye At A Flea Market. Paid $2 Bucks. The Timing Is Still Dead On Balls Accurate
We also asked Kathryn what are some key factors consumers should consider when seeking out products that are built to last. She responded: “Consumers should look for repairability and reusability when shopping for products. Can the item you purchase be repaired easily by a shoe cobbler or tailor? Is it made from high-quality materials that are listed transparently on their label or website? Can you refill it or reuse it in some form?
A good habit to develop is to ask yourself if you plan on using an item more than once. If the answer is no, try to see if you can borrow the item from someone you know who already has one!
Also, make sure you love the item you’re going to buy, as you’ll be more inclined to take care of it. Stepping away from a purchase and waiting at least 30 days is a good test to see how much it means to you: If you’re not still thinking about it after 30 days, you definitely don’t need it.”
#25 Til That In Japan, They Buy Their Child One Backpack. That's It, Not One Every Year
#26 45 Year Old Radioclock My Mother Got In 1978 When She Was 12 Years Old, Still Used Everyday
#27 Braun Hl 1 - Stood On My Grandfathers Desk Running Daily Since The 70s. Now It’s Standing On My Desk 🥲
We were wondering how promoting the concept of "buy it for life" can positively impact not only individuals but also larger environmental and societal issues.
Kathryn wrote: “When you buy something for life, you are saving money in the long run. Sure, it may cost more up front. But think about how much it would cost you to pay for a new couch every five years as opposed to just once.
On top of this, you will be paying for a higher-quality item, which probably means everyone involved in making said item will get paid a living wage. You should always check for third-party certifications, to ensure the manufacturers can back up their claims.”
And lastly, Kathryn added: “Try your best to reduce the amount of items you buy as a whole. We’re constantly marketed to buy more “stuff” on social media, television, and online. But the truth is, more stuff isn’t going to make us happier.
Instead, focusing on your relationships and forming meaningful connections will bring deeper happiness that lasts.
Consider becoming more involved in your local community. Get to know your neighbors, attend potlucks, visit your local farmers' market, host cleanups, attend workshops. When we foster a sense of community, we feel connected and happier, all while working towards a more circular economy.”
