10 things I never spend more than $10 on

10 things I never spend more than $10 on

There are a lot of things I don't mind investing in, but then there are items that should never be that expensive in the first place. Whether it's because the quality caps out or the store-brand works just as well, some purchases don't deserve more than a ten-dollar bill.

If you've ever felt that sting of spending too much on something that should've been cheap, you're not alone. These are the everyday buys I always cap at $10-and never feel like I'm missing out.

Mascara

There are great mascaras under $10, and most of them work just as well as the high-end ones. Maybelline, Essence, and CoverGirl all make solid formulas that don't clump or flake, and you'll find them in pretty much every drugstore.

Unless you're going for a waterproof specialty version, there's no need to pay $20-30 for a tube. You're supposed to replace it every few months anyway, so it makes no sense to overspend on something that's literally going in the trash that often.

Phone Chargers

You can grab a decent phone charger for under $10 at stores like Walmart, Five Below, or even Dollar General. And if you're shopping online, there are plenty of high-rated options that won't cost more than a fast-food lunch.

The only real rule is to look for something MFi certified if it's for Apple. Beyond that, you don't need a $25 cord to charge your phone on the nightstand or in the car. Keep it cheap, keep a few backups, and save your money for something else.

Nail Polish

Even the nicer drugstore brands like Sally Hansen or Essie (on sale) can ring up under $10. And honestly, most people can't tell the difference between a $4 polish and a $14 one once it's on your nails.

If you like to change colors often or do your own manicures at home, it's smarter to stock a few versatile shades without overspending. Save the splurge for the topcoat-maybe. But for color? Keep it cheap and functional.

Shower Curtains

Unless you're buying a decorative outer curtain, the actual liner should never be more than $10. You can get them for $5-7 at Walmart or Target, and they hold up fine with a quick bleach rinse every few weeks.

The more expensive ones mold just as fast and don't clean any easier. I'd rather replace a $6 liner every few months than feel guilty about tossing one I paid $18 for. It's plastic. Keep it in the plastic price range.

Basic T-Shirts

Stores like Old Navy, Target, and even Amazon run decent basic tees for $5-10 regularly. Unless you're shopping for something specific like oversized linen or organic cotton, basic cotton shirts should be cheap and easy to replace.

They're everyday clothes-not heirlooms. If you find a fit you like, stock up when they go on sale. Paying $25 for a plain white tee that's going to stain or stretch out feels like throwing money away.

Hair Accessories

You can find packs of clips, scrunchies, or elastics for under $10 without sacrificing quality. Brands like Scunci, Goody, or even in-house store brands hold up fine, and you get multiple pieces per pack.

Anything more expensive is usually charging for packaging or aesthetics. You don't need a $14 claw clip to keep your hair out of your face while you clean or cook. Save your money for the tools that actually matter, like your hair dryer or straightener.

Sunglasses

Unless you’re buying prescription lenses, there's no reason to drop more than $10 on a pair of everyday sunglasses. I grab mine at Marshall's, Amazon, or Walmart and don't stress if they get lost or scratched.

The cheap ones still block UV, still look good, and still get tossed in the diaper bag or glove box without guilt. If you've ever cried over broken $60 sunglasses, you know why the under-$10 ones start looking better fast.

Coffee Mugs

Cute mugs are everywhere, and they're rarely worth more than $10. Whether you're shopping Hobby Lobby, TJ Maxx, or even your local grocery store, you'll find plenty of options that feel sturdy and look good on the shelf.

It's one of those categories where price doesn't really indicate quality. I've had $3 mugs that lasted years and $12 mugs that chipped the second time through the dishwasher. Stick with what works and skip the overpriced ones.

Hand Soap

If you're buying liquid hand soap, don't spend over $10 unless you're getting a massive refill jug. The regular-size bottles from Softsoap, Dove, or Method run $2-$5 and get the job done.

A fancy pump bottle isn't going to clean better, and most guests won't notice what brand you're using anyway. If you like the look of fancier packaging, buy a refillable dispenser and keep topping it off with whatever brand's on sale.

Greeting Cards

Unless it sings, lights up, or comes with a gift card inside, a greeting card shouldn't cost more than $10-honestly, it shouldn't cost more than $4. Stores like Dollar Tree and even Walmart carry them for $1-$2.

It's the words you write that matter. Paying $8 for something that's going to end up in the trash a week later doesn't make sense. If you want something more personal, skip the pre-written stuff and write your own note.

*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.