If you're trying to save money, one of the easiest ways to start is by changing how you deal with broken or worn out items. It’s easy to fall into the habit of replacing things the moment they stop working, but that mindset can eat into your budget fast. Taking the time to repair, reuse or buy secondhand instead of defaulting to brand new can save a surprising amount without making life feel restrictive.

A lot of people jump straight to a new purchase without considering if something can be repaired. Phone cracked? Instead of scrolling through phone contracts you don’t need, try getting a cracked screen repair. It’s cheaper, quicker and often more convenient than starting from scratch with a new contract and higher payments especially if your current phone still works perfectly apart from the screen. The same goes for tablets and laptops, local repair shops can often revive what seems unsalvageable for a fraction of the cost.

If something really is beyond repair, secondhand doesn’t have to mean second best. Facebook Marketplace, Vinted, and refurbished tech sellers can help you cut costs without compromising. Look for items that have been lightly used or fully reconditioned. Refurbished doesn’t just apply to phones and computers either, you can get steam irons, hair tools and even appliances that work like new but cost half the price.

One of the reasons people end up overspending is panic. A kettle breaks, the TV dies or a phone slips out of your pocket and before you’ve even checked your options, you're clicking ‘Buy Now’. Build a small buffer fund so you’ve got breathing room when things go wrong. That little cushion makes it easier to explore alternatives calmly instead of rushing into expensive replacements.

Sometimes it’s not about replacing something broken, it’s about upgrading just for the sake of it. Brands are great at making last year’s perfectly fine model feel outdated. Unless it’s stopping you from doing what you need to do, think twice before switching it out. Use what you have for as long as it works, and you’ll find the savings start to build naturally without forcing yourself to cut corners. Making smarter spending decisions like this doesn’t mean going without. It just means keeping more money in your pocket while still getting what you need.