What To Spend On Cookware

The average consumers do not have bottomless wallets. They live within a budget. Perhaps they occasionally splurge on that special item but, for the most part, are somewhat conservative with their hard-earned dollars. It is not always in the best interest to buy a single sauce pan for hundreds of dollars. Is cheap the best way to go on all things — especially cookware that is used repeatedly?

There is a temptation, especially when short on money, to shop for cookware at discount dollar stores. This would not be a good idea for one simple reason: return on investment. Cheap pots and pans are just that…manufactured as cheaply as possible. Take for example a five dollar coated baking sheet. It will work great the first few times it is used. The cookies, pizza or whatever is being prepared will not stick and it will be easy clean up. However, the coating wears off very quickly and soon the sheet metal beneath is exposed and rusts. Those cookies might be chocolate chip but a rusty after-taste is probably not going to be a big hit at the office party.

Now it becomes a matter of mathematics. Factor in the initial cost of the pan with how many times it can be used, and consider the cost of a replacement pan; you’ll find that the cheaper pan may not be the bargain it was initially thought to be. This applies to any cookware that is purchased — with the notable exception of auctions or discount restaurant supply stores. It takes an observant eye to understand the difference between a bargain and just plain cheap. Remember: “bargain” saves money and still offers a valuable commodity, whereas “cheap” saves money but the quality is not made to last.

If money is an issue and cheap cookware becomes the only option available then go ahead and make the purchase. Just plan on replacing the cookware relatively soon; or better yet, go ahead and begin saving up to purchase quality cookware one piece at a time. As an educated consumer, make sure to shop around. Friends or family are great sources of information and can suggest cookware they themselves have or like. Good quality cookware is an investment. When taken care of properly, it will last a long time and be quite rewarding.