You’ve probably heard that old adage: “They don’t make things like they used to.”
Note to curmudgeons everywhere: Yes they do. You just have to know where to look.
The place: BuyMeOnce, a shopping site devoted to all manner of tools, furniture, clothing and more that literally never need to be replaced.
The concept behind BuyMeOnce is simple: “Classic designs that will go the distance.”
The store was founded by U.K. ad copywriter Tara Button, who was inspired by the lifetime span of products offered by the French cookware company Le Creuset. Curious, she went in search of similarly sturdy wares.
BMO isn’t a store, per se, but an excellently curated site that leads you to items (toys, grooming, kitchenware, clothes, tools, accessories, shoes, furniture) that offer some sort of lifetime guarantee or warranty, and/or great aftercare policies.
For a culture that seems to be at “peak stuff,” BuyMeOnce serves as a great tool for reducing your consumption while championing brands that promote quality and sustainability.
Four of our favorites:
Briggs & Riley Baseline Domestic Carry-On
A four-wheeled suitcase made of “ballistic nylon” (the stuff WWII airmen used in flak jackets) with a built-in tri-fold garment folder to protect suits. Lifetime guarantee.
The 10-Year Hoodie by Flint & Tinder
A solid unisex hooded sweatshirt that gets softer with wear. Ten-year guarantee with free mending available.
Black Cast Iron Le Creuset Pot
The inspiration for BuyMeOnce. Comes in a variety of colors, will probably outlive your grandchildren.
Velvet Forge Black Straight Razor
A matte black stainless steel handle with a 4” blade made from ACRM-2, a Japanese variety of stainless steel that’s supposedly corrosion resistant and “holds a good edge that is wear resistant.”
The site also features a sustainability blog, featuring articles on leather shoe and bag care, how to host a “BuyMeOnce kid’s party” and tips on making your clothes last longer.
Consider it long-lasting advice.
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