12 Common Items People Buy But Rarely Use
Folks don’t realize how much money they spend on stuff that ends up forgotten somewhere, like a garage corner. And so, we’re giving you this list of everyday items that quietly collect dust after the initial excitement disappears. You won’t make the same mistake after reading this through!
Waffle Makers
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It sounded fun, right? Sunday brunches at home, golden waffles with berries and syrup. But after using it once or twice, the cleanup alone kills the vibe. Waffle makers are notoriously annoying to wash and store.
Fondue Sets
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When you think about all the melted cheese and good company, getting a fondue set almost sounds essential. But it’s just not something people regularly crave or have the time to prep for. Most fondue sets are only remembered when you’re spring cleaning.
Treadmills
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Treadmills are often bought as the go-to New Year’s resolution purchase, with visions of morning runs and cardio goals, but they frequently become oversized clothing racks. A Journal of Consumer Research study found that unrealistic optimism causes people to overestimate fitness equipment use, which leads to underuse.
Panini Presses
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Paninis are delicious, but the press itself? Not so practical. It’s bulky and hard to clean, so it’s easy to forget about. Plus, who really has counter space to spare for a sandwich machine?
Digital Planners
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Every January, downloads spike for digital planner apps and calendar templates. But after a few weeks, most people abandon them. A report by Upland Software indicates that 21% of users abandon an app after just one use. Digital planners may look promising, but motivation often fades faster than expected.
Donut Makers
Credit: Reddit
They’re small and smell like a good idea until you realize homemade donuts aren’t as quick as they seem. Most of these machines only make a few at a time, and cleanup is tedious. It’s easier (and tastier) to occasionally grab donuts from a bakery.
Foot Spas
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Foot spas seem like a great way to unwind after a long day. The idea is soothing, but the experience often isn’t. They’re awkward to set up, and maintenance can be more stressful than relaxing. For many, that first use is also the last before it’s shelved indefinitely.
Ice Cream Makers
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Everyone wants to make homemade ice cream at least once. It feels fun and rewarding, but the process isn’t exactly simple because cleanup can be a hassle, and the machine takes up space. Most people return to buying ice cream because it’s more convenient.
Craft Kits
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Scrapbooking, candle making, or painting by numbers often begins with a burst of enthusiasm. Pinterest ideas and new supplies feel inspiring before life gets in the way. That half-finished project in a box under your bed isn’t calling your name; deep down, you probably know it won’t.
Pressure Washers
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Pressure washers seem like smart buys for tackling outdoor grime. They feel powerful and satisfying to use, at least the first time. However, storing one is a hassle, and dragging it out feels like a chore. That’s why renting one once a year makes a lot more sense.
Cocktail Sets
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Buying a cocktail set feels like leveling up. You picture yourself crafting perfect drinks at home, impressing guests. Having said that, if mixing drinks isn’t your thing, these tools are bound to gather dust.
Subscription Boxes
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Beauty boxes, meal kits, mystery book clubs, and more—yes, subscription boxes can feel like a treat. But when you start getting products you don’t need or food you won’t cook, the excitement fades. They also pile up faster than expected, especially when you forget to cancel.
Cake Pop Makers
Credit: Reddit
These belong in the same category as donut machines and fondue pots. Cake pop makers are cute and seem kid-friendly, but they’re more work than they’re worth. It’s faster (and cleaner) to just bake a cake and slice it up, not to mention way more practical for most people.
Fancy Journals
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You know the ones. Leather-bound and gold-edged, with inspirational quotes on every page. They look great at checkout or on a shelf, but too many end up empty or barely used. Starting a journaling habit takes time, and pretty pages alone aren’t enough to keep it going.
Travel Pillows
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Airports sell them like they’re essential, but most people buy one and never use it again. They’re awkward to carry and rarely that comfortable. Nobody’s sleeping like royalty in economy class anyway.