/r/BuyItForLife

Photograph via snooOG

For practical, durable and quality made products that are made to last.

Reminder: Please use the search function before making a request.

The Mission Statement: http://www.reddit.com/r/BuyItForLife/comments/jtjuz/bi4l_mission_statement_rules_etc/

For practical, durable and quality made products that are made to last.


Rules

1 This is a subreddit emphasizing products that are Durable, Practical, Proven, and Made-to-Last.

Products that are well-made and durable (even if they won't last a lifetime) are accepted.

2a Requests are posts where you are looking for help/recommendations on a certain type of a product or Opinions on a certain item.

Requests Must be flaired with the request flair and if you are satisfied with the answers please mark the post as such.

2b be sure to first use the search bar and check the sidebar before making a request. To make it easier for the community to help, also include your budget (if any) and what country you are buying in.

3 Low-effort Posts will be removed.

4 No Home-made items

5 No new or unreleased products

6 please be descriptive with your posting, posts must include the products brand, years owned or date of purchase, circa the decade is acceptable on items older than 1990

7 No referral codes or affiliate links.

8 /r/BuyItForLife is not a place to advertise your business or sell your product. Want to advertise on Reddit? Start here. Want to contribute look here

If you see someone breaking the rules

  • Click the 'report' button.

  • Message the moderators.

  • /r/spam for egregious spammers.

The mods are somewhat flexible with the rules as long as the OP explains in the comments.

Filter Out certain post types

Reviews/Currently Sold

Vintage

Requests


The BIFL Sidebar Request Series.

Clothing

Clothing

Bags, Luggage and Backpacks

Kitchen

Tools

Containers

Electronics

Threads for Women

Other Items

Threads of interest


Some other good subreddits


Support Domestic


Cl

/r/BuyItForLife

2,613,537 Subscribers

2

ISO Good Ice Cube Trays

Ideally stack compactly

I assume metal is best

Yes I know not true BIFL but maybe a decade?

0 Comments
2024/12/01
07:37 UTC

2

[UK] Corded Palm-size Clipper/trimmer for groin area

I am based in the UK so the Wahl peanut isn't always available and is double the price compared to the US.

What other alternatives are there? I need something powerful, light, small and easy to manoeuvre.

0 Comments
2024/12/01
07:03 UTC

4

Best BIFL Clothing Materials to Look For?

I’ve been consolidating my wardrobe and trying to move towards as close to entirely BIFL that I can get. I’ve been prioritizing natural materials looking for 100% cotton shirts or wool sweaters or what have you but I’m curious to know if there are any synthetic fibers or blends that are BIFL. Basically I want to know what materials to look out for when looking for BIFL clothes.

3 Comments
2024/12/01
06:18 UTC

1

Copper Bottom Pans: Vintage Revere Ware or Falk?

I’ve been researching a lot on cookware since we are looking to buy a house soon and Im trying to furnish beforehand as much as I can. I guess this is opinion based, but for copper bottom pans, would vintage Revere Ware be a good steal? Or are the Falk that much better that I should splurge a little for them instead? I like the idea that if I can get away with a fairly equal product, theres no need to waste materials in getting a brand new product

1 Comment
2024/12/01
05:10 UTC

7

BIFL Slip on Shoes Alternative to Vans

I loved my pleather slip on vans to bits, but the last pair I bought, fell apart so damn fast. I feel like they used to hold up way better. Any good buy it for life alternatives for a similar silhouette slip on shoe?

7 Comments
2024/12/01
03:59 UTC

1

[Request] Lingerie/Delicates bag for washing machine

I have had a couple plastic mesh ones that have been shredded. Ideally would love to find something durable that's not plastic, if that's possible.

0 Comments
2024/12/01
03:50 UTC

1

Recommendations for casual and winter joggers.

I am a tall man with muscular legs and I am struggling to find joggers that are long enough to go beyond my ankles. Just regular joggers that I can sit around at home or gym, and/or go outside during winter. I would love to find something 32x36 size

For casual I usually wear uniqlo, I enjoy the quality but they always stop at my calves, so I have to wear very long socks and I'm a millennial stereotype of not liking to show my long socks lol.

For winter, I have a pair of Burton that I love deeply but same thing. They end around my calves.

2 Comments
2024/12/01
03:36 UTC

14

Choosing bed: solid wood, local manufacturers

I'm doing some research to choose a bed.

Constraints: USA-manufactured location, solid hardwood and declared sourcing, sideboards more than 1", reliable locks (no cheap screws or pins), $2-4k

I didn't like Thuma (and a few similar brands) - can't stand their marketing gimmicks and avoid stating what wood they use.

https://thejoinery.com/products/modern-simple-platform-bed
2.5k
Not clear what lock mechanism

https://www.gatcreek.com/bedroom/bed/alison-bed
2k, using metal joints

https://www.thosmoser.com/product/studio-bed/?srsltid=AfmBOoqINhnYFAtKo0z_dFTPjdnqwNaagRilgDOL2TrWzMCaaq_Eehht#addProductToCart
4k

https://www.durhamfurniture.com/furniture/king-panel-bed-wlow-footboard/ (Canadian company, more like large-scale manufacturing, not sure if its available in the USA)
3k

https://www.stickley.com/collections/beds/products/spindle-bed
4-6k

I checked the bed made by Copeland at a local retailer. They offered 3k for the floor sample, with taxes and delivery, but we didn't like the joints, the baseboard felt not too solid, e.g. moved. And sideboard were rather thin about 1"

My rating so far
Stickley
Thosmoser
gatcreek
thejoinery
durhamfurniture

Any other manufacturers I missed?

We're not far from Lancaster which supposedly has whole Amish "underground" manufacturing of solid wood. Underground because I can't find any specs or contacts who and where making it.
Only some aggregator websites with a bunch of models. But not brand or anything, they simply say they know Amish masters making it. A real weird distribution model. Also idk how a solid wood bed can be 700$, which is 3-4 times less than a real manufacturer listed above.

Oh, and the facebook... I believe 95% "solid wood" listed there is just cheap china furniture.

28 Comments
2024/12/01
03:15 UTC

2

Lazy boy furniture-BIFL ?

Looking for opinions about lazyboy furniture. We need a new sofa and love seat, preferably reclining. I went to the website and it’s extremely pricey. Is it worth it?

7 Comments
2024/12/01
03:02 UTC

5

Best beach face down lounge chair?

Hi there, looking for a xmas gift. Would love to find a durable, comfortable full lounge chair for the beach. Ideally would be easy-ish to pack up and carry. The hole for the face would be an added plus but not necessary. Every result looks like cheap crap that’s being advertised with AI. Need help!! TIA

2 Comments
2024/12/01
02:45 UTC

1

Any t shirt recommendations

Looking for a decent t shirt that's a bit heavy and feels nice that will last years! Any help would be good

1 Comment
2024/12/01
02:11 UTC

1

Looking for indoor outdoor slipper FLORIDA

Looking for some advice on an indoor outdoor slipper. I work remote and don’t want to have a sneaker on all day. I am looking for a slip on shoe that will be comfortable and cool. I am not interested in flip flops or crocs. I’m not worried about pricing if I can get a well built product. Currently my top contender is the glerup rubber sole slip on.

6 Comments
2024/12/01
01:31 UTC

1

Powerful table/desk fan to use as exhaust fan

I want to put a fan near my window to let all the smoke and smells out from my kitchen. It's a rental and I can't have a real exhaust fan (no permanent or expensive fixtures). I'm currently using a weak table fan and it works but very slowly. I can't use a window fan because it's cold af and the window has to be closed after cooking. A quick search on Amazon reveals that I don't really know what's an indicator of a good fan. They say "high velocity" but it's hard to trust a description. Is there a way of identifying the power of a fan?

1 Comment
2024/12/01
00:38 UTC

11

For the sound-sensitive, what’s a good pair of noise canceling (and possibly sound focusing) ear buds?

I inherited a newish phone and have been thinking about getting some noise canceling headphones/ear buds. Assume money is no object, what’s a good pair to invest in? Bonus points if it has features that allow some select audio to come through for instance focus on speech or cutting above certain decibel levels.

Edit: I had a pair of Skullcandy Evos that sounded fine but they have an issue where only one bud wants to sync at a time, not very user friendly. I’m trying to avoid that situation going forward as well

33 Comments
2024/12/01
00:06 UTC

5

Coffee pot/kettle to heat water for coffee and tea

Does anyone have any non plastic coffee makers pots kettles to heat water for coffee and tea?

Was looking at a fire maple even though it’s for camping. Thanks.

6 Comments
2024/12/01
00:02 UTC

0

BIFL white crew socks?

I know Darn Tough socks get a lot of clout, but I don't find them stylish. I'm looking for plain white or minimalist crew socks that are BIFL quality.

10 Comments
2024/11/30
23:41 UTC

19

Bosch Lith-Ion Pocket Driver bought in 2007-2008 at IEC of Arizona Wire Off Trade Show.

0 Comments
2024/11/30
23:08 UTC

11

Groin region trimmer that doesn't tug, rip and tear your hair out?

I have used OneBlade and it works perfectly on my face (facial hair doesn't grow very long or thick compared to my groin).

For my groin (lots of long and thick hair) it tugs and rips my hair each time I trim it and it is painful/sensitive for a week after.

Should I be dry shaving my groin? Or should I instead be wetting the hair and using shaving gel/cream like I do when shaving my face? What are your tips for trimming the long hair to a short length (don't want it bald)?

Can you recommend a trimmer? Maybe I should use a corded Wahl hair clipper to trim it?

15 Comments
2024/11/30
22:55 UTC

0

Great quality couch under $2K

I’m trying to find a good quality couch but don’t want to spend too much since we are renting right now.

What are good brands to look at?

While I probably don’t want to spend more than $2K, I am also thinking I may be able to get something good while there are sales for holidays, or I could look out for options on Facebook marketplace.

I have been looking at crate and barrel Oceanside or IKEA Kivik (and buying new linen covers from BEMZ maybe for the ikea couch)

10 Comments
2024/11/30
22:03 UTC

12

Where to get quality rugs?

What brands or stores or website to get the best quality rugs? I assume wool and/ or a wool cotton blend would be good materials to look for? How is RugsUSA? Also looking at Serena & Lilly. Ideally not looking to spend a fortune but willing to pay for better quality!

6 Comments
2024/11/30
21:56 UTC

0

Ray Ban sunglasses takes another step toward extinction?

If I'm going to BIFL on anything, it's going to be my sunglasses because protecting my eyes is of critical importance. For years Ray Ban has been my brand of choice. I usually frugally pick up a pair at Costco or eBay and have never had any issues with knock offs.

A recent encounter at Costco changed all that for me.

Part of what made Ray-Bans special to me was their "Made in Italy" origin. Italy has a rich heritage of artisanal craftsmanship, and I’ve always associated the "Made in Italy" label with a certain level of quality and prestige. Having traveled extensively in Italy—through Milan, Florence, Rome, and Venice—I’ve witnessed firsthand the pride Italians take in their creations. For me, Ray-Bans weren’t just sunglasses; they were a small piece of that Italian romance and mystique.

So, you can imagine my shock and disappointment when, during a recent Costco visit, I saw Ray-Ban sunglasses labeled "Made in China." I’ve purchased Ray-Bans from places like eBay, Costco, and Jomashop to avoid paying mall markup prices, but I’ve always trusted that the product was authentic and Italian-made. This was the first time I encountered a pair manufactured in China, and it felt like a betrayal of the brand’s essence. It’s not just about the location of the factory—it’s about what it symbolizes. When I buy Ray-Bans, I’m not just buying sunglasses; I’m buying into a legacy of Italian craftsmanship. Moving production to China undermines that legacy.

Sure, I understand the economic realities of globalization (ahem... read "corporate greed") but for a brand that charges a premium, maintaining its identity and quality should be non-negotiable.

Hearing another shopper dismissively say, "Everything’s made in China these days," only added to my frustration. This complacency among consumers allows companies to cut corners while maintaining sky-high prices, eroding the uniqueness of brands we once admired.

Luxottica, as the parent company of Ray-Ban and countless other eyewear brands, already dominates the market to a monopolistic degree. They control everything from manufacturing to retail (via outlets like Sunglass Hut), leaving little room for independent or unique players. This concentration of power feels soulless and industrial—exactly the opposite of what I once believed Ray-Ban represented.

I guess I missed the Baush and Lomb period of Ray Ban ownership which some say was really the pinnacle of quality. I'm too young to have known it as an adult consumer.

Makes me wonder if I should buy an antique NOS pair from the B&L era as I hear people trash modern Ray-Ban as if it’s some garbage brand, in the same way some critique Bose for supposedly mediocre sound quality. I’ve owned both brands, and I love them.

Sure, they might not cater to niche, hyper-specific enthusiasts who only swear by boutique alternatives, but Ray-Ban has had a relative balance of style, quality, and affordability (until this Made in China crap).

It’s easy for someone to sit back and tell you to replace your reliable VW with a Bugatti, but not everyone wants—or needs—that level of exclusivity.

That said, I’ve had my share of issues with Ray-Bans. Some lenses, especially polarized or curved ones, give me eye strain, but I’ve always been able to find models that suit me. My favorite by far is the RB4640 non-polarized, though I also own the RB2120 New Wayfarer and classic aviators. These are staples for me, not just accessories. They’re a part of my lifestyle, and I’ve always been proud to wear them—until now.

At the heart of my disappointment is this: Ray-Ban has lost a piece of its soul by outsourcing production to China. It’s not about xenophobia or blanket criticism of Chinese manufacturing—it’s about preserving the heritage, quality, and story that made Ray-Ban iconic in the first place. When brands abandon their roots in the name of profit, they risk losing what made them special. And when consumers accept these compromises without question, they enable the degradation of once-proud legacies. For a brand like Ray-Ban, which has stood for timelessness and authenticity, this is especially heartbreaking.

I'm shopping for a new brand of sunglasses that isn't a corporate sellout. I have seen them while traveling through Europe. Time to go back and do some more recon. If anybody has any BIFL sunglasses brands to recommend, let me know!

65 Comments
2024/11/30
21:47 UTC

2

Looking for dual fuel range suggestions

I would like to replace our gas oven/stove with a dual fuel range. I don't like induction cooktops, and a gas oven takes too long to preheat. Any recommendations would be greatly appreciated!

2 Comments
2024/11/30
21:37 UTC

0

Waterbottle help Please!

I’ve looked at this thread and read some answers from those who have previously asked this question.

Here is what I’m looking for

  1. stainless steel
  2. no straw
  3. no button to press to open/ fully leakproof
  4. easy clean
  5. most important - the part you drink from is fully covered by the lid.

So many bottles I’ve found have straws or the part you sip from isn’t covered.

Thanks!

10 Comments
2024/11/30
21:28 UTC

268

Amazing how so many people have the same GE alarm clock.

12 Comments
2024/11/30
20:49 UTC

0

Large water bottle, no straw, fits in cupholder?

Hi! Looking for a large water bottle that will fit in a cupholder that DOESNT have a straw. Any recommendations??

Thanks!!

4 Comments
2024/11/30
20:23 UTC

0

Is this for 2000? And USA made?

Picked this Stanley Thermos up recently, it's in very good condition and looks to have barely been used. I just wondered if I am right in thinking it was made in 2000 just before they moved manufacture to china. Thanks!

https://preview.redd.it/gbzpjquva34e1.jpg?width=3072&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=b7999497b1db3a05bb29e799aff8cb194afca30d

2 Comments
2024/11/30
19:23 UTC

0

Best power station to have in a car for small electrics

I was looking for a power station that I can have in my car where I can connect things like a hair dryer or electronics that require an outlet.

4 Comments
2024/11/30
19:18 UTC

2

Looking at Lawn tractor options.

Does anyone have insight or perspective on “Buy it for a while-BIFL” lawn tractors. Ive been looking at Cub cadet as brand they have a good reputation from my understanding. Im no insider in this particular realm and am looking for that kind of information. Im mainly looking for easy maintenance and longevity, used or new.

3 Comments
2024/11/30
19:02 UTC

0

Samsung LCD TV from 2009

Everyday home use for almost 15 years, never had a repair (as far as I remember). Still works perfectly

Sound quality is kind of trash for these days standard. But you can put external speakers.

10 Comments
2024/11/30
18:59 UTC

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