Sustainable Money Hack: 15 Things You Should Borrow Instead of Buy

Borrowing minimizes waste, extends product lifecycles, and lessens your carbon footprint. When you borrow instead of buy, you save money and support a circular economy. Plus, borrowing is more sustainable because it reduces demand for new production, conserving materials and energy. 

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If you’re looking to buy less, reduce your overconsumption, live more minimally, save money, or live more sustainably, borrowing is a great way to do it. These items are great contenders to borrow from your friends or neighbors. 

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Pro tip: If you find it hard to chat with your neighbors, try joining your local Buy Nothing Group and post a request to borrow! It’s a great way to build community and tap into our shared resources. 

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Event-based items

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• Formal Dinnerware: If you host formal dinners infrequently, borrowing or renting elegant dinnerware and utensils can be more practical than purchasing them.
• DIY Party Equipment: Items like projectors, screens, and speakers for DIY home movie nights or presentations are often used only occasionally.
• Party Supplies: Items like tables, chairs, decorations, and other party supplies are typically used infrequently. Borrowing them from friends, family, or community centers can be a practical choice.
• Formal Attire: Clothing for special occasions, like formal dresses or suits, can often be borrowed for events like weddings, galas, or parties.

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Items that you won’t use frequently

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• Board games, video games, and movies: Rather than buying video games or movies that you may only play or watch once, consider borrowing them from friends, family or renting from online platforms.
• Kitchen Appliances: Specialty kitchen appliances like bread makers, ice cream makers, or pasta machines can take up space and might be used infrequently.
• Camping Equipment: Camping gear such as tents, sleeping bags, and camp stoves can be expensive and might not be used frequently enough to justify purchasing.
• Travel Gear: Items like suitcases, camping gear, or travel accessories are frequently used during trips but may spend most of their time in storage. Borrowing can be a better option for occasional travelers.
• Sporting Equipment: Sports gear, such as bicycles, skis, or kayaks, can be expensive and require storage space. Borrowing allows you to enjoy these activities without the long-term commitment.
• Specialized Tools: Tools or equipment that you might need for a one-time or occasional project, such as power tools, woodworking tools, or gardening equipment, can be borrowed instead of buying them outright.

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Items that you’ll only use a few times

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• Books: If you're an occasional reader or need a book for a short-term reference, borrowing books from libraries can save money and prevent clutter.
• Baby or toddler gear: Items like strollers, cribs, and baby carriers are often needed only for a short period as children quickly outgrow them. Borrowing can save money and storage space.

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Hobby items you want to try before you buy 

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• Musical Instruments: Learning to play a musical instrument can be a great experience, but instruments can be costly. Borrowing initially or renting can help you explore your interest without a significant financial commitment.
• Costly Electronics: High-end electronics like cameras, drones, or virtual reality headsets are expensive and quickly evolve. Borrowing allows you to try them out without committing to ownership.
• Art Supplies: If you're trying out a new art form or medium, borrowing art supplies from a friend or a local art center can help you experiment without investing upfront.

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Remember that the decision to borrow or buy depends on your individual circumstances, usage frequency, and the availability of borrowing options in your community. It's always a good idea to consider the long-term cost and utility before making a decision.

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