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For those of us living on a limited budget we often have to forego certain products and brands that we would choose if we could, but our finances prevent us from doing so.
For the most part the cheaper alternatives to products are quite acceptable – and in some cases, just as good, but occasionally we need to bite the bullet and spend that little bit extra in order to enjoy a decent standard of quality in what we purchase.
I have to admit that I will often buy the cheaper brands of products like pasta, flour, sugar, butter, and non-food products like paracetamol and cling wrap, but there are some things that I have to be firm about. I have made the mistake in the past of purchasing a cheaper version of a product, only to find that it wasn't worth the few cents I saved in the long run.

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It took a little bit of trial and error but I eventually learned which products I was prepared to compromise on and which ones I was not.
Here is a list of products on which I will insist on buying quality only:
- Coffee. If you are like me you enjoy a good quality cup of coffee to start the day.

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- Cheese – cheaper brand cheeses are often salty, detracting from the natural flavour.
- Washing Powder – Not as effective as other brands and I prefer to make my own anyway.
- Soap – Found it much too drying on my skin.
- Toilet Roll – A bit too harsh on sensitive areas.
- Shampoo – I have a sensitive scalp so I need something gentle. I prefer baby shampoo.
- Hairspray – Same issue –Because I have a sensitive scalp I prefer another brand.
- Mouthwash – In my opinion the home-brand mouthwashes taste too sweet.

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For many baby products in particular those products that are used on a baby's sensitive skin, cheaper prices very often also means cheaper materials which can lead to skin irritations. Whilst it is frustrating to have to spend money on more expensive skin kind products, it's an area where frugality can have a negative impact. An alternative and popular option is to instead make your own and the internet is full of recipes for home made baby wipes, bath products and baby washes.
It’s fine to compromise in order to save money on our grocery bill, but at the same time we don’t want to compromise our standards. It may take a while to find what works for you, but if you gradually introduce some cheaper brand products here and there, you may be pleasantly surprised and if you’re a little bit savvy in the way you use these products, your family will never know the difference.

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