What are /r/BuyItForLife's favorite Products & Services?

From 3.5 billion Reddit comments

Sony MDR-7506

They've been a standard for professional audio engineers for decades for good reason - and they only cost $79.99 on Amazon.

I've had mine since the mid-90s and have traveled around the country with them crammed in a backpack and they have held up like a champion. I keep saying I'll replace them with the same model if they ever die, but they just keep working.... The only issue is that the ear pad covering wears away over time, but this is easily fixed by purchasing BeyerDynamic velour pads. These pads are super comfy, and well worth the $23. They're not just a replacement for the original, they are an upgrade.

Grab an outlet adapter with a 30 minute timer. I use one for my wife’s hair straightener so she can’t ever leave it on. It was a few bucks on Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/Simple-Touch-C30004-Single-Original-Straightener/dp/B01MA6MMMC/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=30+minute+outlet+timer&qid=1611428727&sr=8-3

No, the solution is to not buy HP. Get a Brother laser printer and you’ll be set for the next decade. The Brother brand toner I last bought was $46 and lasted two years. And it gets decent usage.

If you just need a BW printer, it’s less than $100 and has wireless/AirPrint or ethernet. It’s never caused me a single problem.

Edit: This one:

Brother Compact Monochrome Laser Printer, HL-L2350DW, Wireless Printing, Duplex Two-Sided Printing, Amazon Dash Replenishment Enabled https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0763WDSYZ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_qpLkCbRR1S74A

I've used a T-Fal professional near daily for five years now. I don't put it in the dishwater and I don't use metal utensils on it, but other than than I don't follow any other precautions. It stills works like new.

HOLY SHIT, I THINK YOU'RE RIGHT! Mine look exactly just like these. I even looked up some more pictures and checked all the angles. https://ssli.ebayimg.com/images/g/KH4AAOSwo6lWLtxi/s-l640.jpg

Apparently I misremembered about the tube and Swiss branding. I did buy a Swiss callus shaver at one point so maybe there was some crossover.

I am so happy rn. Thank you! https://www.amazon.com/Sally-Hansen-Precise-Tweezers-71960/dp/B0049PRHVW/ref=sr_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1524859199&sr=8-1&keywords=La+Cross+Precise+Tweeze+Slant+Tip+Eye+Tweezers+71960

The Complete Calvin and Hobbes Collection

I've wanted this since I was a kid but my parents refused to buy it for me, so I'd borrow it from the library every now and then. Now that I'm an adult, I can afford it but I can't bring myself to spent $130 on it.

Apart from that, I'll probably just get money from each relative. I'm kind of like /u/mnmul-- I don't like the idea of making a list of things that I want other people to buy me. That said, I do like the idea of others telling me what to buy them so there's no guesswork and they get exactly what they want.

Overall though I'm trying to shift away from ultra-consumerist views when it comes to Christmas and birthday gifts, and even when it just comes to my own personal spending. I like BIFL products as much as the next guy here, but lately I've been kind of disgusted with how closely integrated consumerism has become with my regular life. The fact that going on Amazon, /r/buyitforlife, and CamelCamelCamel has become a part of my browsing routine bothers me.

Supposedly Swing Away was bought out and is cheap crap from China now. The old USA factory makes the good ones under the name ez duz it. I just bought one a few weeks ago and it has opened 3 cans so far. I'll report back in 10 years and let you all know. Make sure to get the black handle one.

Amazon link for anyone interested: https://www.amazon.com/EZ-DUZ-3028-Deluxe-Opener-Grips/dp/B0071OUJDQ

EDIT: After looking at the Amazon page, there are counterfeit ones being sold. So make sure you buy directly with Amazon.com as the seller. I remember reading the comments and being careful when buying mine so hopefully I got a good one.

I would have to kindly disagree. The BIFL part of a traditional axe head is that you can easily rehang(replace the handle) it yourself. What if Fiskars stops honoring their policy like so many other "BIFL" brands? Then you be stuck up shit creek without paddle. Give me a piece of wood and a rasp and I can make a handle in less than an hour.

The other gripe I have about the Fiskars (I own one myself) is that they vehemently tell you to never use the back end as a striking tool. It makes since, once you realize how the head is attached to the handle, and this to me takes away half the use of the tool. That said, it hasn't stopped me from using the back end for striking in a pinch, just not something you should be doing with it.

EDIT: If you want to downvote me, please entertain me with reasons why I am wrong. I hand make tools and use them a lot. I have used these type of axes as well as traditional ones and I feel like my arguments are sound based on first hand experience.

EDIT #2: Checked out Fiskars website on their warranty info. It appears that all axes sold now are covered for 25 years. I wouldn't consider that BIFL in my book. What happens is the plastic in the handle breaks down after time and exposure. Eventually it will break. Fiskars is betting that will be more than 25 years down the road.

EDIT#3: In spirit of what this is is all about, I would recommend a Husqvarna in any size and style with a wooden handle. They are Swedish made, and use a traditional design, allowing the purchaser to replace the handle. If you don't care to make a replacement handle yourself, they can be bought for less than $10 at any hardware store or on Amazon.

I asked for a 'real' rice cooker for YEARS...two different times I received one of those $15 steamers that, yeah, CAN make rice, but you have to get the ratios right and never made it like you get at the restaurants.

Two years ago I said:"Take the money out of the joint account, spend more than $100, and get a real rice cooker."

Wife got one of these: https://www.amazon.com/Zojirushi-NS-TSC18-Micom-Cooker-Warmer/dp/B006W22KF8

Makes FANTASTIC RICE and we, too, use it 5-10 times a month.

Oddly, I've had rotten luck cooking other things in it. Haven't taken much time to research it much. JUST use it to make perfect rice everytime.

I bought a giant jug of it off Amazon. I also bought some beeswax pellets. I usually condition with just the mineral oil, but every now and then I'll instead use the 'board butter' I made (melt beeswax and mix in mineral oil, allow to cool). Total cost was about $35 but I now have a fuckton of mineral oil and board butter.

Beeswax

Mineral Oil

Also, this stuff is great for other wooden utensils or dishes you might have in your kitchen, such as knife handles, spoons, and salad bowls. Mineral oil also doesn't go rancid, unlike olive oil or coconut oil.

You can also get caps that have smaller screw caps on the top. Such an upgrade from the normal ones if you hate the huge drinking hole like I do.

Here's the one that I purchased.

They had Rotomolded coolers at Walmart a while back.

https://www.walmart.com/search/?query=rotomolded%20cooler&cat_id=0&typeahead=rotomo&facet=brand:Ozark%20Trail

The Ozar Trail ones seem to be out of stock.

https://www.amazon.com/X-ACTO-School-Classroom-Electric-Sharpener/dp/B00006IEI4

There's a product photo on Amazon with a big label on it that says: "10 YEAR WARRANTY". Might be worth a shot.

¯\(ツ)/¯

I think this company bought the original factory and equipment when swing a way moved over seas. I've got one and it is excellent.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0071OUJDQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fabc_RCN9PF6PHV1WZNZTD83A

I have owned a Vacuum Shop for the last 16 years. 10 years is the high end of the life expectancy for most vacuum cleaners, there are always exceptions. All vacuums require constant maintenance, cleaning filters, changing bags or emptying water, changing belts, cleaning brushrolls, etc. The Dyson machine are NOT worth the money, and they are very hard to get parts for when they tear up. I am also not a fan of Bagless Vacuum cleaners, dust retention is awful on most machines and they require more maintenance than a bagged vacuum. For versatility and durability try to find a good canister cleaner, I personally have a Panasonic canister cleaner (mine is an older model of this but very similar) that I have been using for years and I love it. Panasonic also makes some great upright machines, and they also manufacture a lot of the canister vacuums for Kenmore.

Just because it has some carbon fiber in there doesn't mean it will last forever. Most of the thread and seams are just going to be standard nylon.

I bought this stainless steel fabric wallet, and after a few years a lot of it has started ripping and it also wears holes in my pocket if carried corners down.

Stewart/Stand RFID Blocking Bill Fold, Herringbone - Silver https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00C3JX2T2/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_zPXfub0BBQHVE

500 Heavy Duty 22" x 40" Work or Play Wagon 1000 # Rated https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0080PCWGC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_tSJfCb8GZ2BP1

Glad I got it for free!

Originally posted in r/dumpsterdiving

https://www.reddit.com/r/DumpsterDiving/comments/9s77en/a_curbside_trash_pickup_gonna_fix_it_up_for_my/?st=JPQWQJPO&sh=70d0bbd7

Zippo now makes butane inserts with single or dual torch options. There should also be a rechargeable electric insert coming soon. No need to hassle with liquid fuel anymore. These are not the crappy 3rd party inserts that we've had to deal with for so many years. These are Zippo branded inserts with Zippo manufacturing codes.

Check out Xtratuf boots. Everyone in Alaska from fishers to hunters & garbage men wear them year round, different heights available depending on your needs.

Xtratuf Legacy Series 15" Neoprene Men's Fishing Boots, Copper & Tan (22272G) https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B00188I8A2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_2A2D2EY79FJPE52BEXG7

Or, for 1% of the price, you can get the more plasticity shittier sounding chinese version.

The Neewer actually sounds amazingly good for a $30 mic, at least for recording electric guitar on a hobby/diy level.

But when you’re making serious recordings, $3600 is honestly chump change. An equally good studio grade mixing console (like a 16 channel Neve) would start at around $40-60k. Music recording is not a cheap business.

You can buy a device off Amazon called a kill-a-watt meter and it will tell you exactly how much electricity it actually uses.

P3 P4400 Kill A Watt Electricity Usage Monitor https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00009MDBU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_o9IMBbZ7ZG5WK

If you're interested. If not then just sit back and enjoy your fantastic fridge!

I researched these not too long ago and to sum up what I found: small document firesafes are kind of terrible.

There's a few on Amazon for less than $100 like this one but the reviews are usually not all that great. More importantly, the smaller the file safe the less fireproof it is. Anything you can pick up and move yourself is probably only rated for .5-1.5 hours in a fire.

Several people suggested that it should be fixed. They were overruled.

>Ebeling was the first to sound the alarm the morning before the Challenger launch. He called his boss, Allan McDonald, who was Thiokol's representative at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

>"If you hadn't called me," McDonald told Ebeling, "they were in such a 'go' mode, we'd have never been able to stop it."

>Three decades ago, McDonald organized a teleconference with NASA officials, Thiokol executives and the worried engineers.

>Ebeling helped assemble the data that demonstrated the risk. Boisjoly argued for a launch delay. At first, the Thiokol executives agreed and said they wouldn't approve the launch.

>"My God, Thiokol," responded Lawrence Mulloy of NASA's Marshall Spaceflight Center. "When do you want me to launch? Next April?"

>Despite hours of argument and reams of data, the Thiokol executives relented. McDonald says the data were absolutely clear, but politics and pressure interfered.

https://www.npr.org/sections/thetwo-way/2016/03/21/470870426/challenger-engineer-who-warned-of-shuttle-disaster-dies

I'm pretty sure it came from the kids furniture section of Target a couple years ago. They might still have it but I think the last time I was there they only had bulldogs and unicorn heads.

Here's a very, very similar one with a taller shade on Amazon.

Fancy corkscrews are one of the biggest rip off schemes out there. All you need is a double hinged waiter’s corkscrew. They last forever and are super easy to use once you figure it out.

Pulltap's Double-Hinged Waiters Corkscrew, Black and Stainless Steel https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0055OGPWS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_utXvCbRTZNJWX

I’ll second that. I will normally smash and chop using a chefs knife, but if I’m in a hurry, or have lots of garlic to do, I’ll use the OXO press. Thing is built like a tank!

Oster Classic 76.

Source: shave my head every two days using 0000 blade attachment.

OSTER Classic 76 Universal Motor Clipper 76076010 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00070E8LA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_HNuuBbDSFPCX7

For like 10 bucks you can replace those ear covers.

https://www.amazon.com/Replacement-Earpads-Mudder-Pieces-Foam/dp/B011BIIO9I/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1517354778&sr=8-3&keywords=bose+foam+replacement

I think this is the correct link: https://hoover.com/products/details/uh30300/windtunnel-t-series-bagged-upright/

Edit: $45 cheaper on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/Hoover-Cleaner-WindTunnel-Upright-UH30300/dp/B003EQ470G

Amazon link (no affiliate, I was just curious how / if they still made them).

They're only $39 now ($47.54 in 2004 dollars), so they've actually gone down in price and the reviews still seem good.

https://www.amazon.com/Presto-03430-Pizzazz-Plus-Rotating/dp/B00005IBXJ/

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00P2NA37A

If you ever wanna change it over to butane - I wouldn't light a pipe with Zippo fuel because it tastes too nasty.

Plus butane is far more reliable especially if you don't smoke often because it does not evaporate.

Pyrex is no longer made from borosilicate ("lab glass"). It's made from soda lime glass now, the same glass most consumer stuff (beer bottles, etc.) is made of.

http://www.snopes.com/food/warnings/pyrex.asp

Stoneware is probably a better choice for longevity. It's more rugged.

I work at a kitchen store and am a die hard home cook myself. If you're in the market for a food processor get a Cuisinart Custom 14 Cup . No other food processor (aside from a commercial model like a Robot Coupe) is remotely as good. This is the one model Cuisinart makes that is definitely still BIFL.

Get the 14 cup model even if you don't think you need that size. The 11 cup model has a different lid latch design that isn't as sturdy. I accidentally dropped our demo model like 5 feet onto concrete and sent the pieces everywhere. It was totally fine, you couldn't even tell it had been dropped and it is HEAVY. It's the strongest, best food processor you can buy IMO and it won America's Test Kitchen's comparison test by a landslide.

I've used Breville (which I normally love), KitchenAid, and Kenwood food processors as well as other Cuisinart models. This is the one you want hands down.

Not quite 2L, but Nalgene makes incredible water bottles:

Nalgene 48-Ounce Silo Tritan Wide Mouth Water Bottle (Blue) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004H8BIKW/

From their wiki:

"originally for laboratory use, including such items as jars, bottles, test tubes, graduated cylinders, and Petri dishes, that were shatterproof and lighter than glass"

You're much more likely to loose it before it fails you.

The $30 luxe bidet on amazon is perfectly fine and will improve your pooping life significantly (I feel dirty when I poop outside of my home now). You will use significantly less toilet paper and generally feel cleaner (you still need some toilet paper, but never more than one wipe for residuals and wiping up the water you just squirted all over your butthole).

It's exactly like a super soaker shooting your pincher, and you can adjust the pressure, max pressure almost hurts but next time you're 'wiping the marker' think about how nice it would be to just hose it down and be done with it.

Relevant column from Consumer Reports:

There were electric toasters on the market a half century ago," our editors wrote—in the May 1956 issue of Consumer Reports. "In view of the long years of experience in manufacture, there seems little excuse for toasters that are badly designed or poorly constructed, and no excuse at all for toasters which are hazardous to use." Tests from that year turned up each of those problems. We did recommend some models, including the Toastmaster 1B14, which an expert quoted in the Times article calls "absolutely the end-all-and-be-all toaster there ever was." In fact, while we liked the Toastmaster's overall performance, its narrow slots were unsuitable for thick slices of bread and muffins, so better reviews went to models by Montgomery Ward, Sunbeam, and Knapp-Monarch.

As someone who has owned 3 Lodge Dutch Ovens before buying a quality one, it sure won't. The enamel chips and scratches way too easily on the Lodge ones. That's more of a pricing difference than a new vs. old thing though. Usually when people are referring to old cast iron they are not referring to the enameled stuff. The difference between the non-enameled pans is that the older ones were polished at the factory so they were smooth and they didn't (at least to my knowledge) come pre-seasoned. Newer Lodge pans aren't smooth, but I'm doubtful how much of a difference that actually makes. From first hand experience though, I can tell you that stripping the Lodge seasoning and re-seasoning the pan yourself will get you a pan that is, performance wise, similar to that older cast-iron. If you're willing to invest some money into it you can find plenty of older Griswold cast iron pans on eBay that are in excellent condition OR check out one of the newer companies making higher quality stuff than Lodge such as Field Company. If you want to learn more about cast iron check out /r/castiron.

EDIT: Although, now that I'm looking at this Dutch Oven more closely, it may not be the black enameled version as I had assumed.

EDIT 2: No, I take that back, looks like it is this one.

Not sure if you’ve replaced all of the cooking surfaces, but since this looks like it could have been run on gasoline at a time where leaded gasoline was still available, might not hurt to use a lead test.

Yes. I picked up some stainless prison trays for my new place. You can find them cheaper on Alibaba and other Chinese sites, but there’s usually a minimum order of 50 or so.

My new place (still remodeling) has a backyard patio and pool. I’m building an outdoor kitchen and a fire pit, so there will be lots of eating outside. I am not taking my ceramic plates out there and I do not like plastic. Also, these can go directly in the oven.

Oh, I forgot to mention the real threat: cats.

I have cats. Curious cats. Cats who take a deep interest in any and all food. Cats who will go after unattended plates.

I am reasonably sure the cats cannot destroy a prison tray. Though one is an Oriental Shorthair and there are two Siamese brothers. The three of them might be able to destroy a prison tray. Maybe I should get an order of 50 from China.

Came here to say this. My Kuhn Rikon is a gem. Easy to clean, consistent results, easy to use, built like a tank. 10/10.

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https://www.amazon.com/Kuhn-Rikon-Easy-Clean-Garlic-Press/dp/B07QL9P493

I honestly don't know if it will work well for shaved heads, but i use a peanut mini clipper for my beard and even haircuts. Has lasted me more than 4 years of regular use and maintenance.

Wahl Peanut - Amazon $41.88

The 10.25" Lodge skillets is $14 and pretty much holds at that price on Amazon. They are BIFL as long as you season it correctly and condition it after every use.

It's super durable, I've taken it camping and moved it halfway across the country. The only part I could see breaking is maybe the filter/press section if you really abuse it. But even those are stainless steel, not plastic like some brands.

While this exact brand isn't available anymore, I'm pretty sure this one's the same model, or at least very similar.

That's good to hear, Pun intended.

While I can't currently afford new headphones my next ones might be V-MODA Crossfade Headphones. I do enjoy the quality of mine but it would be nice to cancel noise.

Holey poop. Their $1,367.02 Canadian. But you did say they lasted 9 years and counting. I always say if something I buy lasts 1 year per $100 it's a good deal.

Edit: These are the ones I was looking at.

Great choice, I got the same coat a couple months ago. Feels like I could take a bullet with this thing on!

I'd recommend hitting it with an can of Apple brand water repellent. Zero discoloration to my coat and the water beads and just rolls right off.

https://www.amazon.com/Apple-Brand-Repellent-Conditioner-Protector/dp/B00B6F9KXG

Can recommend this. I'm obese and sleeping on this thing is godly.

https://www.amazon.com/LUCID-Inch-Plush-Memory-Mattress/dp/B0088YV7XY/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1527745263&sr=8-5&keywords=lucid+14+inch+gel+memory+foam+mattress

Here's a citation from consumer reports in 2011, referencing an Consumer Product Safety Commission ongoing monitoring effort:

"When we asked the CPSC for an update, spokesman Scott Wolfson said the agency is monitoring the safety of that product line."

http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/magazine-archive/2011/october/home-garden/bakeware/what-we-found/index.htm

This is the one I bought. I did a lot of research and this one was recommended several times. I've had it for about 4 years and absolutely no issues so far.

Spending over a hundred on mattress protector is ridiculous. I'm sure the price of OP's was inflated drastically due to where he bought it, though.

Without giving specific recommendations a good stainless steel pan will have 3 main features to look for

1. Weight: The heavier the pan the better it will retain heat more effectively meaning you get more even cooking even if you aren't cooking on the best burners
2. Layers: Higher quality stainless steel pans will usually have at least 3 layers, stainless steel on the outside and a core of either aluminum or copper. This will allow the pan to heat up more quickly than pure stainless steel on its own. Copper core is better at this than aluminum but will also typically cost more. And the outside layers of stainless steel mean it won't rust or be damaged during use.
3. Oven safe handles: Part of the upside to pans that aren't non-stick is being able to put them in the oven to finish dishes but cheaper pans tend to have plastic handles that won't be oven safe.

If you want specific suggestions this All clad is expensive but will last forever and work great and I use this Tratomina, It's quite a bit cheaper but is still going to last for years and works great though is certainly not quite as pretty as the all clad version.

I went with a cheap Amazon memory foam one:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00GTCL3SQ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

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The reality of the industry is that everyone is selling mattresses that cost like $50 to make. It's just that some of them mark them up to $300 and some of them mark them up to $1200+.

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I have had this mattress for several years now and really love it. Bought one this summer for my son when he outgrew the twin size one we bought him two years ago. He's super happy with it too.

​

It it BIFL? I don't know. But I know that it has lasted a number of years so far and I'm still very happy with it. I think Most mattresses get saggy and worn in 8-10 years anyway, so I'm not sure if there IS a BIFL mattress. Our last one was way overdue to be replaced at like 17 years when we got this memory foam one.

Mellanni Bed Sheet Set - Brushed Microfiber 1800 Bedding - Wrinkle, Fade, Stain Resistant - Hypoallergenic - 4 Piece (Queen, Gray) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00NLLUP4G/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_OHFtCbNTXTS4F

So I can’t speak on how they will stand up over time but I’ve used these for 5 months now and I am very happy with them. No pilling which would drive me crazy with other sheets, very smooth

There was a reddit post a few years ago where some guy reviewed a bunch of nail clippers. I ended up buying these Harperton and I couldn’t be happier with them. Girlfriend said she was gonna take them cause she liked them so much.

Every time I see someone buy this chair, I throw out this pro tip: change the wheel for something like this. They're low cost and make a world of difference.

Thinking aloud: Take a glass bottle you like, peel labels, remove glue residue with isopropyl alcohol, and put one of those expanding bottle stoppers with a handle (this type of thing) into it.

Everyone here is preaching on the "keep bras away from cat" angle. Which, yeah, do that. Keep a shoe box in your underwear drawer and use it as your bras-only hamper.

But more importantly, to address your other issue. If your bras are dying quickly, you're not caring for them the right way. Ideally, you want to hand wash and hang dry them. If you don't want to hand wash them, you can get away with putting them in the wash, but you need to put them in one of these. And for the love of god, if you want them to last DO NOT put them in the damn dryer.

Anker PowerLine II USB-C to C 2.0 Cable (6ft) Probably The World's Most Durable Cable, USB-IF Certified for Galaxy S8, S8+, Google Pixel, Nexus 6P, Huawei Matebook, Nintendo Switch, MacBook and More https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071WNXY1R/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_HDLBAbB5KRPY7

Try these.

Do you live somewhere that's cold in the winter? I've worked from home over 5 years now and my fav thing in the winter is my Foot Warmer under my desk! Ahhhhh.

As far as BIFL, this one as it's super heavy duty. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000079896

I just purchased a mocca master as well, and I purchased this cleaning solution for it. Should last forever.

Urnex Dezcal Coffee and Espresso Machine Descaler Activated Scale Remover - 900g Bottle - Fast Effective Descaling Of Boilers and Heating Elements Faucets Spray Heads Milk Systems https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004L8V966/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glc_fabc_WM4-Fb15J3WVM?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

"Made by Dad" 67 Blueprints for Making Cool Stuff

https://www.amazon.com/Made-Dad-Blueprints-Making-Stuff/dp/0761171479/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?adgrpid=55437169829&gclid=CjwKCAiAws7uBRAkEiwAMlbZjk750XM49QOq-oKBS-7pC-t2m0konv6MpaL1_eVbIdSZvRjbvFpCLRoCQdgQAvD_BwE&hvadid=274680616449&hvdev=m&...

Yep, I have had one on my keychain for four years, and it still looks in pretty good shape, and works perfectly. Here it is

The only reason I would upgrade at this point would be to get the newer model which is USB 3.0 (10x faster read/write). But for oddball installers/tools/and work related files it comes in really handy.

https://www.amazon.com/Kingston-Digital-DataTraveler-DTSE9H-16GBZET/dp/B00DYQYITG/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1526010730&sr=8-3&keywords=kingston+datatraveler

If you purely want a rugged watch and aren't looking for a wrist GPS then it doesn't get much better than a solar G-Shock.:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07CVN8T38/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_QN4ZT5WS877MY2102TTZ

Yo Costco socks are the best frugal option for a BIFL sock. Merino blend, they last forever, are so comfortable. This is them on amazon.

Sorry but you got ripped off. Those are not rare or expensive, everyone in the Navy owns probably 5-10 of those, we use them on our mesh laundry bags to keep them closed while they go through the ships laundry service.

https://www.amazon.com/Super-Stainless-Safety-crafting-projects/dp/B00DDT3OX0

I've been using GlassLock for years now. Reheating in a glass dish is healthier for you than plastic, and does not stain, etc.

https://www.amazon.com/Glasslock-11292-18-Piece-Assorted-Container/dp/B00LN810PM/ref=sr_1_5?s=kitchen&ie=UTF8&qid=1543526728&sr=1-5&keywords=glasslock

This is my Black and Decker Cup At A Time coffee maker that I bought in January 1994. Model is DCM6.

This coffee maker saw daily use from 1994-2005, 3-4x weekly since 2005. It still brews a great cup of coffee every time and has held up very well for almost 25 years old.

The B&D one cup model is now called Brew 'n Go, and it is model number DCM18. By all appearances and by progression of the model number series, it is the exact same maker... albeit it is only made in black now, and it comes with either a beige/black or stainless/black travel mug. Amazon link

>There's nothing that even comes close to it on the market.

Zojirushi!!

I have hammers to smash things. If your thermos doesn't keep things hot/cold like it should then you can use it as a hammer. If your thermos does, it's probably a Zojirushi.

head over to /r/goodyearwelt for the skinny on shoecare regimen and products. I wouldn't use Kiwi stuff myself, but that's mostly for other reasons. Lexol is a great neutral conditioner (not that you'd need this much).

I have the same problem, my nails are incredibly hard to cut.

After breaking 3 different nail clippers in a day, I found these: seki nail clipper

Made of stainless steel and very sharp, they really cut your nail instead of tearing it like most nail clippers.

I’ve had mine (normal nailclipper, not the toenail clipper) for about 6 years now and still looks and works as new.

They're having ongoing business practices of pre-installed backdoors and malware. http://fortune.com/2015/12/08/lenovo-solution-center-hack/ http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/security-failings-demonstrate-avoid-lenovo/

You can actually use soap because the seasoning isn't oil at that point, it's effectively polymerized into a sort of "plastic" so to speak. That being said, I still don't use soap that often, only when something is really stuck on or if I forget to wash right after use and the oil/fat won't clean off otherwise

Source: https://lifehacker.com/go-ahead-and-use-soap-to-clean-your-cast-iron-pan-1658416503

And the man in the source, Kenji of serious eats (/r/seriouseats www.seriouseats.com), really knows his shit. If memory serves he used to be part of America's test kitchen and he tests things in a very scientific way, so I trust him on basically anything food related

I fully support replacing your dishwasher with a Bosch or Miele when the time comes. But until then, try this detergent:

(Pack of 6) Cascade with Phosphates Professional 85oz https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00PT0324C/

It’s been a game changer for the mediocre Whirlpool in my rental.

My family had a $20 limit for years. About 15 years ago, my mom got me a used VCR out of the thrift store - left the $17.99 sticker on it so the whole family could see she stayed under the 20 buck limit. That was a huge surprise. It was a luxury I couldn't have afforded on my own (they were selling for $200 back then) and it's still running fine today.

So I guess it depends on your recipient. but maybe you can make that $20 go toward something both long-lasting, and something your giftee really wants. Luxury items are affordable if the stars align.

as far as buying new under the BIFL flag, I'd over-spend by 4 bucks and get this showerhead.

Or pick a book they'd love off amazon. Books are archaic, but make great gifts. espcially the funny, coffee-table variety.

V-MODA Crossfade M-100

Not noise-cancelling, but they have great sound isolation and fold up nicely into a compact travel case. They're on sale somewhat frequently and I managed to get my pair for $150 from Amazon.

Here is an interesting NPR story about the history of the backpack - https://www.npr.org/sections/ed/2015/11/02/445339503/from-book-strap-to-burrito-a-history-of-the-school-backpack

The author interviews the founder of JanSport. It is interesting to hear how the company was founded, how it competed with LL Bean, etc.

The founder was interviewed throughout the story. At the end, the story's author provides this note...

"In an interview a few weeks ago, Skip Yowell told me: "Last year I traveled to Jakarta, Korea, Japan, Nicaragua, Indonesia, the Philippines, and I saw JanSport packs wherever I went." It made him smile: "You never get tired of it."

(Note: While I was reporting this story, Skip Yowell died at his home in Morland, Kan. At the end of our phone interview, he asked for my address so he could send me his book. I got it in the mail with a thoughtful and considerate note just days before he passed.)"

Link to his book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Hippie-Climbing-Corporate-Ladder-Mountains/dp/1595558527

$10 for a pair via Amazon Prime. Tweezerman Stainless Steel Nail Clipper Set Model No. 4015-R

Link to Tweezerman.com if you want to avoid lining Bezo's pockets

I have a vornado at my desk - I use this one: https://www.amazon.com/Vornado-Zippi-Personal-Fan-Ice/dp/B000E19MQ8/ref=sr_1_9?keywords=vornado%2Bdesk&qid=1569264640&s=home-garden&sr=1-9&th=1

It doesn't have the variable speed like OP requested, but it is SUPER quiet and gets the job done.

here you go:

bars and burners

grates

You can buy them at most stores that sell batteries. Amazon has them too if that helps.

I should also mention, if you are looking for rechargeables instead, NiMh batteries are much less likely to leak than alkalines. I have had great luck with eneloop brand NiMh rechargeables

I have this one and recommend highly. This one looks a little closer to the one you're replacing, wood handle, etc. But yeah google search "thai style vegetable peeler"

You probably don't need the flir but I've heard good things about the cat phones

https://www.amazon.com/CAT-PHONES-Waterproof-Smartphone-integrated/dp/B01JO9ZF3Y

Avoid the Chinese junk like you posted

Kuhn Rikon Auto Deluxe Safety Lid Lifter, Red

I've had this one for years and it's fantastic. My wife just said the other night how glad she is that she bought it which is always nice to hear. Considering I bought it after a Reddit recommendation.

Check out Simple Music Player

I purchased one and it seems pretty great. The only downside is the high cost. I found a used one for about half the price of new.

For the really hard stuff I use a pot scraper. My dishwasher doesn't really get really hard stuff off - it's more like a dish sanitizer.

But for 90% of the work, this brush does the job.

>I have had great luck with eneloop brand NiMh rechargeables

This bears repeating, I love these batteries.

To each their own, but as a gal who needs strong vibration herself, I found the womanizer to be a waste of money. A lot of money.

Edit: here’s my love https://www.amazon.com/Sensuelle-Point-Rechargeable-Bullet-Silver/dp/B00HM827C2

Despite what the cast iron dorks think, BIFL non-stick IS entirely a thing. You cannot just walk into Kohls, but a pan and duece out though. You have to research. The very best Teflon is their Platinum Plus line which is damn hard to find. https://www.chemours.com/Teflon/en_US/products/cookware_coatings/decide_which_one.html shows the ranking. Restaurant supply stores are good spot to find it...don't worry about the brand/maker as much as them stating what coating they use. Some of IKEA's pans use it. The top of the line T-Fal use a proprietary coating that is 9/10 as good a Teflon Platinum.

Here a neat one: Cast iron with Platinum coating, lifetime warranty, and dirt cheap. https://www.amazon.com/Cuisinart-CIL22-26RN-CastLite-Non-Stick-Cast/dp/B00WG6FJ70/ref=sr_1_10?ie=UTF8&qid=1539109620&sr=8-10&keywords=platinum%2Bplus%2Bpan&th=1 Teflon on cast iron...that'll piss off the cast iron dorks!

Costco's Trail Socks are dirt cheap and rumor has it they're made by the same factory that makes Smart Wool.

http://www.costco.com/Kirkland-Signature%E2%84%A2-Men's-Trail-Sock-4-Pack-BlackBrown.product.100074281.html

You. Whore. Get yourself a real deal commercial nonstick I’ve got some that are a decade old. I take care of them, hand wash, store with rags, no metal. They’re cheaper at Costco.

I have that one in my classroom as well but thisis the one ALL of my students prefer. Gets pencils super sharp!

Also to add I teach second grade so little kids can use it.

If you have a few dollars and a drill, you can get a set of nylon drill brush heads that remove most of the “elbow grease” component. Also great for cleaning the shower and dishwasher washable.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07G7XG6BV/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_fabt1_2wiUFbP2G38TN

You really don't even need to go that high. The Victorianox 8" vibrox pro chefs knife. Solid all rounder and one of americas test kitchens favourites. https://www.amazon.com/Victorinox-Fibrox-Chefs-Knife-8-Inch/dp/B008M5U1C2

Edit: if you want a nicer looking version you can get the rosewood handle.

Another great gift is one of those assortment kits with nails and screws and lots of little hardware that comes in handy around the house. When I bought my first house someone got me one of these as a housewarming gift and it was extremely useful for years.

Here is one on Amazon: Capri Tools 290-Piece Assortment Set - Organize Home and Workshop https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001K5M90S/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_qmShwb2BQ4GNK

The one I was given had a lot more stuff in it than that one but I don't know where it came from. There are probably a lot to choose from and I would guess they range between $10 - $20

They sell a floor jack at Costco from Arcan for $100.

This is it or similar ($249 on Amazon): https://www.amazon.com/Arcan-ALJ3T-Aluminum-Floor-Jack/dp/B0047D2FWM

I consider a jack a safety item which is not something to skimp on. That said, you don't have to blow the bank either.

Costco doesn't always have the jack in stock but Arcan jacks usually last a long, long time.

the best one I found in the US was a 1750 watt one amazon for $21 -

I've had it for 3 or 4 years and only use filtered water.. thing is a champ

The 575 / 600 watt KitchenAids are probably what you need for what you're doing. The lower power mixers from them usually have plastic gears, and KitchenAid has made it a bit of a bitch to figure out which of their models are actually capable of constant, regular use, vs throwing together a batch of cookies now and then. This sucker has been kneading 2 loaves of high-gluten bread a week for me for about 3 years now, and it's still truckin' along.

Just wanted to chime in and say that I'm currently using the same pillow. It's been pretty great to me so far, but I've only had it about a year, so I can't speak to its BIFL longevity (yet). That said, you can easily add/remove/replace the memory foam pieces inside over time, and it comes with about an entire pillows worth of extra foam. That should, in theory, give it an effectively infinite lifespan. It's also made in the USA, fwtw.

It's an especially good pillow for side-sleepers, as the best side-sleeping position is to tuck your arm under the pillow, and this one accommodates that really well - that's the main reason I purchased it. Unfortunately, a lot of other memory foam pillows are either way too thick, or are made out of a single piece, which makes tucking your arm less ergonomic.

Just make sure to follow the directions about tossing it in the dryer before use, otherwise it's going to be really lumpy. Throw in a dryer sheet or two you like the smell of, as well, as the initial smell can turn some people off. Drying removes a decent amount of it, and the rest fades pretty quickly with use.

Edit: /u/mewithoutMaverick reminded me below that I actually purchased the cool gel infused version of this pillow, which is slightly different, and slightly more expensive than the one linked here. But, if you're a hot sleeper, it's well worth the extra cash, imho.

That's my 2¢.

Which models are these? I’ve heard good things about them. Tests show heat distribution on par with All Clad.

Edit: Here’s the set I was referring to. Reviews are really good.

You don't really want a fountain pen. You want a refillable pen. Get yourself a Parker Jotter. They are even on sale right now on Amazon.

If you want to step it up then get a space pen refill. They fit in the Jotter with the provided adapter. Just make sure it's packaged with the adapter and you'll have a good feeling pen that writes anywhere.

Edit to add, the reason I'm dissuading you from a fountain pen is exactly what other posters have said. They aren't built for jobs that move around a lot. You want a durable, reliable, and easy to refill pen that will write anywhere.

Soda-lime variants are microwave and freezer-safe.

Neither leach anything into food.

They switched to soda-lime in the US because they are cheap bastards.

Pyrex made for sale outside the US is made from borosilicate.

Excellent Consumer Reports article comparing US and European new Pyrex. The video (about 2.5 min) is worth a watch.

If you really want your mind blown, try Visionware. It was made by Pyrex's parent company back in the day. It's essentially Pyrex that is ALSO stovetop safe.

This is Visionware. http://imgur.com/SrNRnQd

I see it regularly at thrift stores but I know replacements.com usually has a decent stock and their prices aren't too bad.

Consumer Reports ran some testing and made those results available to the public for free several years ago: LINK