Temptation We Couldn't Resist
Last week in Sticking to the Plan, I shared about a few things that were tempting us to stray from our budget and our plan. One of those items was a new washer.
We needed a different washer. Buying a used washer for about $100 was the plan. We were watching ads, and trying to find the right washer for the right price when temptation again came to taunt us. This time we could not resist. We found a top loading high efficiency washer for $350. I know, well beyond our planned budget for a washer. I supposed that I should feel regret over this purchase since we did not stick to our plan and used $250 that was slated to pay off debt. But I can honestly say I feel no regret.
The biggest reason I can not feel bad about this purchase is because we made it with cash. The washer did not put us farther into debt. It did not use any of our emergency fund.
I could also rationalize the purchase by saying that the high efficiency washer uses less water and electric. The clothes also dry much faster because this washer does a better job spinning them out. Yes, I could argue that, but considering that I line dry most of our laundry, it will probably take a long time to make up the $250 difference. But there is a valid argument, if less tangible, for my time. I had a hard time keeping up with laundry before I started working. Since starting work, the back log of laundry was becoming huge. This capacity of this washer is easily double the capacity of my other washer. It even will hold our sleeping bags, which I would not have even dreamed of washing at home before. Not only can I wash more in one load, as I mentioned above, the clothes dry much faster. I've been amazed out how much easier it has been to stay on top of the laundry since we got this machine.
This washer was more than we originally planned to spend. Buying the washer does fit with our big picture plan or using cash for purchases. That extra money was slated to pay down our debt, but using it for a much better washer than we thought we could buy was worth it to us. Plans and budgets are good. Sticking to them is good too, but so is a little flexibility.
Labels:
budgets,
laundry and cleaning
11 comments:
Steph, I am glad to see you bought a new washer! I think you deserve it. In the long time I've know you I don't think I've ever heard of you buying anything new (well besides the Wii - lol). Anyways, I think it was a smart idea! I was just reading about how new appliances are so much more efficient and honestly it will probably make a bigger difference than you are imagining.
yay! It's gorgeous! Now teach K how to use it. :)
What! That's a screaming deal for such a great washing machine. That is a great appliance that is probably worth three times the money. A $100 dollar machine would get you by, too, but this is quality. Coolness.
You will more than make up for it in time saved and frustration avoided! Good buy! Years ago when we were in the market for new washer/dryer (having worn out an old set) I splurged and bought front loading machines that have an amazing capacity. I paid cash (and got a heck of a great deal) and haven't regretted it a bit. Good for you!
Um, I guess I wasn't exactly clear this is a used washer. It is less than three years old and looks new, but used none the less. Sorry Delilah! :) Still a fabulous deal IMO as they retail for 1000-1200 new. And Mary I do plan to teach K how to use it, as soon as I figure out all the buttons myself that is! LOL!
I kept teasing her that I bought it for her birthday...
A bigger washer makes SUCH a difference.
And the washer is the best kind- Paid-for! Even though you went over your stated budget, you still paid cash, and got a great deal.
LOL. You said you were watching the ads...I assumed you were talking about sales ads! That is a great deal and it looks newer than any washer I have ever owned!
If guilt gets the best of you, we will try to help out by trading washers and giving you $250. Just trying to help.
Moms need more efficient ways to get their work done. Look at it as a long term investment. Like you said, it's not like you went further into debt for it. It may not have been within your original budget but, when a golden deal comes along-sometimes you just gotta grab it. You'll eventually get your money back and with washing larger loads with less dry time, you'll get more done during your day (or you can be like me and put off the laundry for even longer! lol)
Haven't been over in a while... nice to be back and am enjoying your inspiring posts and money saving tips!
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