My parents were born at the onset of the Great Depression, and lived through WW2 and the rationing afterwards. Hell the main reason they came to Canada was because there simply better opportunities here than in mid-50s Europe. My Father was never one to spend money foolishly. sure he would look for the best deal, as would any smart person. But he ALWAYS was willing to spend more to acquire quality. That has stuck with me, and stood me in good stead for things like appliances, and even tools. Buy quality, and KEEP it. If you cannot afford it at the time, then save until you can.