Are you the type to splurge on a new handbag, yet you’re reluctant to replace your everyday dishes?
It’s time to make your daily necessities as comfortable and luxurious as those more fleeting purchases.
Dinnerware
Think it’s wasteful to replace dishes your kids will chip anyway? Think again. Perk up daily dining by replacing your whole set for less than the cost of a new down coat.
Shop: Crate and Barrel, 4999 Old Orchard Center, Skokie, 847-674-6850; 1775 Lake Cook Rd., Northbrook, 847-272-8920
Sheets
You don’t live in a dorm anymore, so why use dorm-quality sheets? The Bureau of Labor Statistics suggests you spend more than 2,900 hours between the sheets every year (between 8.2 and 8.8 hours every day for men and women ages 25–64). Make those hours count with an improved thread, and pay attention to the fabric and weave while shopping.
Shop: Bedside Manor, 929 Green Bay Rd., Winnetka, 847-441-0969
Bed pillows
Is your pillow heavier than when you bought it? According to sleepbetter.org, that extra weight is likely to be dust mite remains. Time to think about a new pillow! Buy one catered to your sleep pattern (side, back or stomach), and make sure it’s made of the highest quality materials. Allergy sufferers have great options, too. Stave those dust mites by using a pillow protector and laundering your pillow frequently.
Shop: Home Goods, 840 Willow Rd., Northbrook, 847-412-9937; Susan Kroeger for the Home, 886 Green Bay Rd., Winnetka, 847-446-7611
Coffee maker
Are you really paying $4 for a latte every morning, but you won’t replace your old coffee maker? Do the math and ditch the Mr. Coffee. Treat yourself to a high-quality espresso maker, like Miele, and save yourself the drive. It will pay for itself.
Shop: Miele Inc., 554 Green Bay Rd., Kenilworth, 847-256-6300
Bathroom towels
Washed often, bath towels can quickly become frayed and faded, stained and shabby. If this describes yours, relegate them to the rag drawer.
Shop: Macy’s, 1 Old Orchard Shopping Center, Skokie, 847-329-2700
Online: Garnet Hill Signature Towels
Throw-pillow inserts
Whether you’ve got custom throw-pillow covers or cheapies from IKEA, you still need good inserts with plenty of poof and substance.
Shop: Check out The Company Store for natural feather down pillows made in the USA.
Non-stick pan
A Consumer Reports study of non-stick pans recommends replacing your pan if the non-stick coating starts to flake—regardless of whether or not the coating is chemical-free. Why risk it?
Shop: Sur La Table, 4999 Old Orchard Center, Skokie, 847-568-1210; 2160 Northbrook Court Northbrook, 847-770-4580
Online: Williams-Sonoma Non-Stick Fry Pan
Cutting boards
The USDA recommends discarding any cutting board, plastic or wood, once it becomes worn or develops hard-to-clean grooves. So why not buy two? One for fresh produce and bread, another for raw meat, poultry and seafood.
Shop: Sur La Table Bamboo Cutting Boards
Mudroom rug
Your mudroom shouldn’t be an eyesore just because it gets lots of foot traffic. Treat yourself to washable, durable stripes or plaids that brighten up your high-traffic spot.
Shop: Pasquesi Home and Gardens, 975 North Shore Dr., Lake Bluff, 847-615-2700
Online: Dash & Albert cotton rugs
Table linens
Not only should you replace your tired, stained placemats and tablecloths, but invest in some beautiful cloth napkins as well. It’s an eco-friendly way to dress up your table.
Shop: Sur La Table, 4999 Old Orchard Center, Skokie, 847-568-1210; 2160 Northbrook Court Northbrook, 847-770-4580
Photo: Stack of towels in linen closet by Bigstock
