Bobby Berk Explains The One Home Good You Should Splurge On (And One You Should Save)

Designing a home to your taste requires a lot of investment. With home goods, you're often paying high prices for premium materials, design and craftsmanship, production costs, and brand reputation. There are also added costs with products that are trendy or in high demand. Because of this, you need to be strategic with your home-good purchases, knowing where to cut costs and where to splurge.

A general tip is to invest more in things you interact with more on a daily basis and find ways to be economical with those that you don't. That's why Bobby Berk recommends splurging on your bedding and saving on rugs since bedding is a home good used much more. As he noted in Better Homes & Gardens, "You spend 20 to 30 percent of your life in bed. It should feel like when you go to a nice hotel and the sheets are smooth and crisp." Rugs, on the other hand, are mainly an accessory in a room, sometimes only for decorative purposes.

Splurging on area rugs isn't always the smartest move for your design budget as many other home goods could take financial priority. It's more practical to look for affordable options by waiting for sales or buying secondhand. Thrift stores, flea markets, yard sales, and consignment shops also usually have high-quality rugs at significantly lower prices. With this said, while you want to be economical, you should also avoid the cheapest product(s) because it will cost you in the long run through constant maintenance or replacement.

Look for certain signs that identify a real-quality rug when shopping. Some features to look out for are detailed weaving techniques, premium wool, and a high number of knots. Also, avoid rugs that will shed. Per Bobby Berk, "Just make sure you're not getting one that will shed forever because that's going to drive you insane." To test the quality of the fibers, simply rub the rug between your fingers to see if it'll shed. When you get your quality rug at a reduced price, work to extend its lifespan by vacuuming and cleaning it regularly.

If you're to splurge on a home good, there are various reasons why it should be your bedding, and why investing in high-quality bedding can be beneficial. First, as Bobby Berk pointed out, your bed is where you spend a significant portion of your life as you sleep and rest. Investing in comfortable and luxurious materials can significantly enhance your sleep quality and overall comfort. High-quality bedding materials like cotton, linen, and Tencel are breathable and light. Silk and bamboo sheets are also hypoallergenic, which means they can promote a cleaner and healthier sleeping environment.

Your bedding also contributes to the overall look and feel of your bedroom. Investing in well-designed, stylish bedding can elevate the visual appeal of your space and create a more inviting atmosphere. It allows you to express your personal style and create a sanctuary you look forward to retreating to each night. Further, splurging on bedding made with durable materials and superior craftsmanship often means that it'll last longer. While the initial cost may be higher, the home good will maintain its quality and appearance over time, saving you money in the long run.