Let’s be honest: buying new appliances can feel weirdly like dating apps. Flashy promises, sky-high price tags, and about a 50/50 shot that they’ll actually work the way you need them to. But here’s the hot take no one asked for (but you’re getting anyway): you don’t need to buy everything brand new. In fact, for a lot of small-to-mid-size appliances, you’re basically paying a premium for the box and a fingerprint-free surface.
From thrifted kitchen MVPs to gently-used cleaning powerhouses, there’s a whole world of secondhand gadgets out there that are still in their prime—and for a fraction of the cost. Some even work better than the sleek new ones clogging your Instagram feed. So before you drop $300 on a Bluetooth-enabled blender you’ll use twice, check out this list of appliances you should seriously never buy new again. Your wallet, your kitchen, and your sanity will thank you.
1. Washer & Dryer
Laundry day just got a whole lot thriftier. New washers and dryers are notorious for sneaky add-ons—smart controls, steam cycles, Bluetooth, oh my—none of which you actually need when a basic, reliable model does the trick. Buying used means the previous owner already absorbed that depreciation, and you get a trusty workhorse for a fraction of the cost. You’ll dodge delivery fees too—many mom-and-pop appliance shops offer free haul-away of your old set when you buy their refurbished inventory.
And those heavy-duty motors in older machines? Built to last decades, not just a flashy season. Just make sure to test the spin cycle and inspect the hoses for cracks, and you’re golden. According to an ABC7 News report, washers and dryers are among the safest bets for secondhand purchases thanks to their long lifespans and straightforward mechanics. Beyond saving hundreds, you’ll reduce textile microplastic pollution by keeping these beasts running longer. Imagine telling your roommates you paid zero gimmicks for your laundry setup, and that instead of “hello, detergent dispenser error,” you’re enjoying “hello, extra-fluffy towels.” It’s the kind of eco-win that doubles as bragging rights.
2. Refrigerator
You might think a fridge is your life’s most boring appliance—until you see how quickly that sticker price melts away. New refrigerators depreciate faster than a car the moment you wheel them off the showroom floor, so you’re basically throwing money on ice. Many lightly used or floor-model fridges have barely been plugged in, so why pay full price when another homeowner had cold feet? Plus, if you snag one that’s a couple years old, you still get modern features like adjustable shelving, humidity-controlled crispers, and energy-saving compressors.
The repairability factor is huge too: older models often have simpler electronics, so fixing a busted ice maker or replacing a gasket won’t cost you an arm and a leg. You’ll avoid that dreadful “new appliance smell” (seriously, it’s a thing) and get a more environmentally conscious win by keeping a perfectly good fridge out of a landfill. And yes, you can still find models with ENERGY STAR ratings—you might just have to dig a little deeper. According to Consumer Reports, buying a used fridge can slash your grocery-cooling costs by up to 30 percent off the sticker price. With a free delivery from Habitat ReStores or a Craigslist score, you could literally have zero excuse not to chill smarter. Just imagine swinging by a local resale shop, snagging that stainless-steel beauty for half the price, and bragging about it at your next dinner party. It’s thrift-chic meets consumer savvy, and you’ll be saving so much you might even treat yourself to fancy cheeses.
3. Dishwasher
Dishwashers are the unsung heroes of adulthood, and you shouldn’t have to mortgage your future to buy a new one. Modern dishwashers are packed with sensors, crazy-talk cycle names, and touchscreen panels that are ripe for software glitches. Opting for a used or floor-model dishwasher strips away most of those headaches and gives you reliable water-jets and simple rack systems. Plus, older dishwashers often have metal interiors instead of flimsy plastic, meaning they’ll resist rust and stains far longer.
You’ll save on that initial price tag and on repair bills—replacement pumps and hoses for classic models are cheap and plentiful. And honestly, if you can snag a name-brand like Bosch or Whirlpool from someone who’s moving out, you’ve hit the jackpot. As laid out in Real Simple, the steep depreciation on dishwashers can make them a major cost-saver when bought secondhand. Picture yourself loading up your pre-owned dishwasher after a gourmet dinner party, knowing you didn’t splurge on “smart” features you’ll never use. It’s practical, eco-friendly, and your wallet stays as spotless as your plates.
4. Stove & Range
Cooking connoisseurs, rejoice: you can find nearly new stoves at killer discounts if you’re willing to skip the “brand-spankin’-new” label. Floor models from big-box stores often come without ever being hooked up, so their burners and ovens are basically singing “unused.” These units still have full manufacturer warranties and professional installation deals attached, so you get peace of mind at a fraction of the price. Older gas and electric ranges were built like tanks—solid knobs, sturdy grates, and thick glass oven doors—that thanks to advances in design, you can still find with modern efficiency.
Repair parts for classic models are cheap, and local repair shops know them inside and out. According to Homes & Gardens, new appliances undergo rigorous safety tests, but lightly used floor models often come with that same safety certification intact. So when you roast veggies or sear steaks, you can do it on a high-quality range that didn’t require maxing out your credit card. And isn’t saving hundreds while cooking your heart out a recipe for happiness?
5. Blender
Listen, if you’ve spent $200 on a fancy blender that barely sees smoothie season, you’re doing life wrong. Most blenders max out at basic chopping, blending, and crushing ice—features you’ll find in used or open-box models for a steal. Early-model blenders are rock-solid machines with metal blades and robust motors, whereas newer gimmicky models are all about app connectivity and auto-settings nobody asked for.
A well-maintained countertop blender can last a decade, and spare parts like gaskets and blades are cheap and easy to swap. Hunting for a premium brand like Vitamix or Blendtec secondhand can save you 50 percent or more. Plus, you’ll cut down on plastic waste by giving someone else’s blender a second life. As noted by Bloomberg News, buying secondhand small kitchen appliances—think toasters, blenders, and the like—is both sustainable and wallet-friendly. Imagine whipping up a margarita in a near-new blender that cost you less than dinner for two. Now that’s what I call a blend of savvy and fun.
6. Microwave Oven
Who really needs the latest “sensor-reheat” wizardry? A used microwave from a college dorm sale or Habitat ReStore will zap your leftovers just fine. These basic units have simple circuitry that rarely fails, and you’ll dodge that ridiculous markup for stainless-steel exteriors and touchscreens. Always test that the turntable spins smoothly, and confirm the door seal is snug. Otherwise, you’ll enjoy perfect popcorn nights without popcorn-wallet burnout. Plus, you’ll slash the cost-per-use down to pennies—every reheated latte or late-night snack becomes a testament to your bargain-hunting prowess. Maintenance is a breeze too: a quick wipe with a damp cloth keeps things smelling fresh and functioning flawlessly. You’ll also avoid the energy-guzzling overkill of “super-powerful” new models that rarely earn their headline wattage. Trust me, your countertop will thank you for the extra elbow room and your bank account for the extra digits.
And let’s be real: if it can reheat pizza and steam veggies in under two minutes, it’s doing its job. Swipe one up for next to nothing, and reserve your splurge for a killer chef’s knife instead. You’ll also sidestep that awkward “new gadget learning curve” and be out the door reheating like a pro. Plus, scoring a deal on a used unit is one of those small victories that makes adulting almost fun.
7. Coffee Maker
Coffee addicts, hear me out: the vintage drip or French press machine you score used can taste just as good as that trendy smart brewer. The electronics on high-end coffee gadgets are notorious for flaking out, so simpler models are a safer bet. Used carafes and boilers can be scrubbed spotless, and replacement O-rings are dirt cheap. You’ll keep caffeine flowing without the fancy Wi-Fi controls that make your brewer obsolete in two years. Better yet, many used brewers come with built-in thermal carafes that keep your java hotter for hours—no reheating required. You’ll also dodge the plastic-laden water reservoirs that can leach off-flavors over time by opting for glass and stainless components. And if you love playing barista, a retro drip machine lets you experiment with pour-over filters and manual grind settings. In short, your morning ritual just got more authentic and way kinder to your wallet.
Plus, you’ll get bragging rights for being the barista who shops smarter than the rest. And if you ever tire of drip, a solid secondhand espresso module can slot right in without breaking the bank.
8. Vacuum Cleaner
Unless you really need robot vacuum glam, a used upright or canister model will suck up dirt just as powerfully as a new one. Older motors weren’t hampered by weight-saving plastics, so they often have more suction and durable housings. Replaceable bags and filters are inexpensive, and you can usually find sealed motors for classic models online. Say goodbye to that “new vacuum smell” in the bargain. Those heavy metal brush rolls and robust belts mean you’ll tackle pet hair and fine dust without constant clogs or breakdowns. Swapping in a fresh bag every few weeks is a cinch, and you’ll avoid the finicky filter cleaning cycles of newer cordless units. Plus, many used vacuums still include attachments for crevices, upholstery, and dusting—little extras that new budget models omit. Keeping your floors pristine has never felt more rewarding (or more affordable).
Best of all, unlike some flashy new cordless models, the belt-and-brush system is straightforward to service—so you can keep that living room crumb-sucking champion in action for years. You’ll also cut down on battery-waste and e-scrap by skipping those one-use battery vacuums.
9. Toaster Oven
Small, mighty, and perfect for single-serve cooking, toaster ovens hold up like champs. Used countertop units from estate sales can crisp up your toast, bake small dishes, and broil leftovers without losing a watt of function. They’re essentially mini-ovens with heating elements that rarely fail. Scoring one for under twenty bucks is a morning-star move when you consider cooking oil savings and pizza-bagel upgrades. You’ll love the instant-on preheat—no more waiting ten minutes for your big oven to warm up just for a slice of garlic bread. Many models also come with broil and bake settings that handle everything from frozen fries to personal pizzas. Cleaning is a snap: pop out the crumb tray, give it a rinse, and you’re done. And for those tight kitchen nooks, a compact toaster oven proves that great things come in small, space-saving packages.
Just give it a quick interior clean, replace the crumb tray, and you’re off to a toasty start. You’ll soon wonder why you ever bothered shelling out for a bulky, power-hungry full-size oven for minor tasks.
10. Slow Cooker
A good slow cooker is virtually indestructible—find one secondhand, and you’ve got soups and stews on lock for the next decade. The heating coil and ceramic crock rarely break, and that digital timer you thought you needed is usually overkill. Replace gaskets or lids easily if they crack, but otherwise, these pot-o’-gold cookers keep on slow-cooking. Older models often have hefty stoneware pots that retain heat beautifully, so you’ll get tender roasts and silky beans every time. You’ll also save on electricity: a slow cooker uses pennies’ worth of power for an all-day cook compared to dozens of cents for a conventional oven. And because you’re recycling someone else’s trusty kitchen companion, you’re doing Mother Earth a solid. Plus, you can slip in a liner for mess-free cleanup and never look back.
Chili season, here you come—without “new appliance” regret. Your future self, digging into a bowl of perfectly tender goodness, will thank you (and so will your wallet).
11. Stand Mixer
If you bake enough to warrant a stand mixer, hunting down a gently used KitchenAid or similar model will save you hundreds. These beasts last forever, with planetary mixing action that’ll whip cream and knead dough for years. Replacement bowls and attachments are ridiculously cheap, and the motor is usually bulletproof. Many older mixers sport metal gears instead of plastic, so they handle thick batters without strain. You can also grab specialty attachments—pasta rollers, meat grinders, spiralizers—at a fraction of retail if you shop preloved. And let’s not forget the timeless aesthetic: a retro-style mixer in your kitchen screams “classic baker” better than any glossy new model. Ultimately, you’ll get all the mixing muscle you need without that fresh-out-of-the-box anxiety.
Imagine piping cupcakes with a mixer that cost half of retail because the previous baker upgraded to commercial gear. Score! Plus, when guests ask, you get to drop, “Oh, it’s vintage—I got it used.”
12. Air Fryer
The air fryer craze is real, but the fundamental tech—hot air circulation—hasn’t changed much. A used air fryer in good condition will still crisp fries and roast veggies flawlessly. Those dials and baskets are easy to sterilize, and if the nonstick coating chips, a new basket insert is cheap. You’ll dodge that “latest model” premium and still get the same crunchy goodness. Many secondhand air fryers also come with extra racks or skewers, upping your cooking versatility without extra spend. They heat up in seconds, so you can whip up nachos or wings faster than you can preheat a traditional oven.
Plus, a used unit means you’re keeping another gadget out of the landfill and cutting down on new-product manufacturing. And let’s face it: there’s something deeply satisfying about thrifty, golden-crisp results that taste even better when you know you scored the deal of the year. So go ahead, fill up your fryer drawer with pre-loved gold, and let the savings sizzle.
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice. Consult a financial professional before making investment or other financial decisions. The author and publisher make no warranties of any kind.
