5 Household Items South Africans Should Never Buy Cheap, Finance Expert Warns
- Southern Finance expert Renier Botha warns cheap household buys can end up costing South Africans far more overall
- Extension leads, batteries and light bulbs top the list of items where cheap options carry hidden long-term risks
- Botha said appliances and mattresses that fail early often leave shoppers paying twice for the same essential item
PAY ATTENTION: Mark Briefly News as a preferred source, and our content will appear higher in your Google feed!
Source: Twitter
South Africans are being warned to think twice before choosing the cheapest household products on the shelf. A finance expert says some cheap buys end up costing families much more over time. The warning covers everyday items found in almost every home. It comes as many households look for ways to cut costs.
Renier Botha, a finance expert at payday loan company Southern Finance, said the lowest price does not always mean the lowest cost. He explained that products which break quickly often need replacing sooner than expected. This can leave shoppers paying more in the long run. Botha shared his warning in comments sent to Briefly News.
Why cheap extension leads and batteries can backfire
Extension leads and multi-plugs have become essential during ongoing load shedding. Botha said cheap versions can overheat or fail under pressure. This puts both appliances and homes at risk of damage. He urged buyers to choose reputable brands that meet safety standards.
PAY ATTENTION: You can now search for all your favourite news and topics on Briefly News.
Source: UGC
Batteries are another item people often buy in bulk without much thought. Cheaper batteries tend to run out faster than trusted brands. This means more frequent replacements and higher spending over time. Botha suggested rechargeable batteries for gadgets used every day.
Light bulbs follow a similar pattern, according to Botha. LED bulbs cost more upfront but use less electricity overall. They also last far longer than traditional bulbs sold cheaply. He said the real cost is what you pay over its lifetime.
Kitchen appliances and mattresses were also flagged as risky areas to cut corners. A cheap appliance that fails after its warranty can mean paying twice. Botha advised checking energy ratings, warranties and repair costs before buying. He added that mattresses affect comfort, health and long-term value.
Botha said smart spending is about total cost, not just price tags. He encouraged shoppers to ask if an item will last before buying it. For many households, spending slightly more upfront could prevent bigger costs later.
Renier Botha is a consumer finance expert at Southern Finance. Read more of his advice at southernfinance.co.za.
More expert takes featured on Briefly News
- A senior advisor to the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organised Crime warned that political killings in SA are increasing.
- Brad Latilla-Campbell from Crimson Education cautioned Grade 9 learners against picking subjects based on prestige rather than genuine interest.
- Marketing expert Lebo Lion posted a TikTok video explaining why the Foschini Group is shutting down hundreds of stores across its retail network.
PAY ATTENTION: Follow Briefly News on Twitter and never miss the hottest topics! Find us at @brieflyza!
Source: Briefly News
