“Buy it for life,” or BIFL, is a shopping movement that champions the idea of investing upfront in durable, high-quality products to reduce the need for replacements in the future. BIFL encourages a sustainable shopping mindset as an alternative to fast fashion and mass consumerism. It turns away from inexpensive, low-quality items like particle board furniture and polyester garments that deteriorate rapidly. Although it isn’t a new concept, BIFL has gained significant traction, with the r/buyitforlife subreddit established in 2011 now boasting over three million members. The term “buy it for life” peaked in Google Trends interest in December 2024, and its advocacy has permeated TikTok amidst the “underconsumption core” trend.

Buying for life signifies acquiring less. BIFL doesn’t necessitate swapping all existing items for higher-quality alternatives but rather promotes the upkeep and repair of current possessions. Identifying BIFL products for new purchases can be difficult since their durability becomes evident only after years of use. The r/BIFLfails subreddit addresses this dilemma. The quality of many goods has diminished due to trend cycles and the quest for lower prices, highlighting the importance of comprehensive research. Recommendations from reliable sources are essential.

After discussions with Mashable staff, we’ve gathered a list of 10 BIFL products. These items are recognized for their durability, repairability, and warranties, going beyond the usual recommendations like cast iron skillets or socks. Evidence-based shopping serves as a money-saving strategy applicable across various categories, from home essentials to beauty and travel.

**Patagonia Black Hole bags**: These renowned bags are environmentally friendly and repairable, crafted from ripstop polyester fabric with a laminated finish. Patagonia provides repair services, even for older items, under its “Ironclad Guarantee.”

**A Yeti cooler**: Renowned for its durability, Yeti coolers endure tough environments and retain ice effectively. They come with a five-year warranty, although scratches and wear are not covered.

**A Husqvarna Viking Emerald sewing machine**: This sewing machine is built to last, featuring smooth dials and robust components. It includes a 10/2/1 warranty for manufacturing defects, with repair services available.

**A KitchenAid stand mixer**: Long-lasting and repairable, KitchenAid mixers carry a one-year warranty with options for replacements. My 1991 model remains in superb condition.

**A Jansport backpack**: These backpacks are sturdy and come with a limited lifetime warranty for manufacturing defects. Repairs can be facilitated through JanSport.

**A Yeti stainless steel water bottle**: Yeti bottles are durable and come with a five-year warranty covering manufacturing defects. They are famed for keeping beverages cold and enduring rough treatment.

**A Nutribullet 900 Series blender**: This blender is resilient and offers repair options, with replacement parts available. It carries a one-year warranty for defects.

**The Thuma Bed**: Constructed from upcycled wood, this bed is robust and comes with a lifetime warranty for damage from regular use. It can be easily repaired with woodworking skills.

**A Framework Laptop**: Engineered for repairability, Framework Laptops facilitate straightforward upgrades and repairs. They include a one-year warranty for defects.

**A Chi hair straightener**: Reliable with appropriate care, Chi straighteners feature a two-year warranty for defects. They are dependable for a variety of styling needs.