That is so infuriating that your (basically) brand-new washer failed. I visited my great-grandmother a few months ago *she is 101 years old* and living her best life in her condo~ and she was talking about her washer/dryer has been working perfectly for 33 years!!!!! I was astonished. She continued on to say how things today aren't made the same as they once were. I believe that the brand she had for both was GE. So appliance companies definitely have the knowledge to keep the same level of quality, they just choose not to.
Yep ! I had a washer from 2003 I think and it just gave out this year - I was dreading getting rid of it and hung on it for ages as didn’t want to buy a modern machine as they break sooo fast!!!! They don’t make them the same and that’s a fact !!!!!!! I now have a hand washer as back up stock 😂 even though I got a new machine on sale 😐
Our oven (the best I’ve ever used!) was purchased my the previous owner in 1998! It’s only recently starting to die but we’re going to attempt to fix it
We had to replace our 35 year old washer and dryer because the parts finally wore out to the point where they were no longer replaceable and the washer/dryer people told us that these new ones would last us a good 5 years. 😢
I get the whole “I don’t need to furnish my house in a month” thing. I think it took me close to two months to just thrift the perfect couch. My whole house is thrifted, and I think 9 times out of 10 my home is more curated than those who bought a bunch of fast furniture. It’s well worth to sit on the floor for a while 🥴
As a pregnant person I feel like I talk myself out of buying things all day long. My strategy is telling myself that the situation is gonna be overwhelming at times by nature. I don't need to stretch my budget and already be overwhelmed by all the decisions and choices I probably will never have to make if I just wait. I wanna be excited for the little person I'm gonna get to meet and not the stuff around it. And I wanna find out what we need as a family by getting to know us and solving the problems that will actually occur at the time they do.
As a person who had a baby 4 months ago, i want to tell you that this is totally doable! In a minimalist newborn essentials video someone said that baby only needs a place to sleep, a few clothes and you. ❤ It is so true in the beginning, than if you feel like you lack of something or something would make your life a lot easier you can buy it then. Every baby is different and as you get to know your baby you will know exactly what he/she needs. (Sorry if my english is not correct, I am hungarian)
Omg ME! I’m slowing collecting things from a buy nothing group but there is so much and I keep hearing people play on first time mother anxiety about secondhand things not being safe for the baby and I have to remember that women have been birthing forever and none of this stuff existed!!
I got a new job in June that doubled my salary, and I feel very financially secure and stable now where I didn’t before. And I immediately fell into the trap of making more and therefore spending more. I was already intentional and thoughtful about what I bought, but I have definitely let myself buy more frivolous things that make me happy that I wouldn’t have before. I’m trying to reign it in now.
First off, YOURE GLOWING!! You look so happy and I'm so happy for you. And the people buying all new appliances etc when they move... debt! A lot of people carry plenty of consumer debt and Do Not Care!
Couldnt agree more with u ! I’m buying a house and people told me well you need save another 10-15K on top to redo the inside of your house like ? I’m like what ?! Why ? I have a fridge freezer / chest freezer and washing machine and my clothes house and bed base plus tv&tv stand ... i ain’t going to die if don’t do it the minute I move in lol 😂
I finally broke down and got a new winter coat-actually just ordered it today. I live in a very cold climate northern plains state. I have been wearing an extra sweater when outside, racing from house to car, then blasting heat. This year I decided I needed a real coat as I won't be driving much and need to be warm while shoveling or trying to get some exercise outside. Have not had a new or any winter coat for at least 5 years.
Consider yourself lucky…my area frequently hits -40, and I bus…but, that being said, I wear my winter jacket until it wears out, which is several years.
Recently I’ve convinced myself to stop buying reusable Starbucks cups. I just have so many and I realized I really don’t need anymore, no matter how pretty they are.
We bought our flat three years ago and are just now putting on the finishing touches. There were many things we did buy new BUT we intentionally bought from small, local business that handmade many of our items from European wood (we are fortunate we have the budget for that). These are items I plan on having until I die and for people to be able to use after.
You made me feel better about our washer (purchased new in 2014) being on its last leg. I was so mad that it only lasted 8 years, but I guess it was a pretty good deal. Now I'm nervous to buy a new one when this inevitably breaks. We're keeping it until it stops though...even if it shakes the house every spin cycle. 😅
you could always take it to the extreme and DIY a washer thats powered by cycling 😂 honesty, it would be great for me when mine eventually stops working
When my parent's washer+dryer broke down, they just replaced it with a similar refurbished one from the repair store 🙂 it included taking away the broken one (w/c likely will be repaired and resold). We find that the newer models of washer+dryers break far sooner than the older models!
literally was planning a shopping spree for this saturday and you talked me out of it. i am going to get a few necessities and i’m going to the thrift store first but thank you for this video!!
I just wanted to let you know that I love your content. As a fellow green&gay I think you do great work. I just moved in to my new apartment as well. I am having the same approach as you, but was just starting to get a bit discouraged. You kept me on track. Tnx! If you guys are going to have kids I just know there is so much good content to come. I have a 1,5 year old and the amount of things people tell you you need that you actually don't is astonishing. Keep up the good work 💜
This is just what I needed to hear. Holidays f w my head and say buy buy buy. But no!! I don’t need anything and shouldn’t just get something because it is a holiday!! Thx girl- great content ❤
I agree it is soo tempting when you see these super cute, super fast renovations on the internet - and you have all these perfect inspo photos, and you're ready to have your space the way you want it! But it's just so worth it to slowly collect the perfect pieces - it takes longer but you truly end up with a more unique, fun, and personal space (in addition to, you know, being better for the planet obv!)
Part of why I appreciate you is because you share tips for sustainability and wealth. I think it's really indicative of how capitalism screws over the planet, workers, and consumers but markets our own destruction to us as something that will finally make us happy. It's not an accident that the products killing our planet are also keeping people poor. I love that you acknowledged that it's hard being the person not getting new shit all the time. I often get FOMO but have to always keep in mind why I'm not a hyper consumer. Listening to your videos always reaffirms my choices and gives me a much-needed breath of fresh air. Thanks ❤️
please do more of those, they help me so much. And I know I can "sound" silly, but the part "the aesthetics shouldn't matter more than the planet" realy spoke to me, my mom raised me to be one of those "I deserve this pretty whatever" kind of girl, and I realy don't want to anymore! Sometimes little insights like these make a difference for a lifetime! THANK YOU
We got our couch from my boyfriends parents. It was hurting his mom’s back so they bought new ones. And we got a gorgeous, great quality couch second hand for free! And we need a better nightstand situation than we have right now but instead of buying new, I’ve been checking FB Marketplace and Craigslist and thrift stores when we go.
People buying all new stuff for their homes in only a month is the opposite of slow design, which is a movement I think you would totally love Shelbi! (And many of the other commenters on here too... I actually have a video about it argh sorry for the shameless plug, but actually I hate plugging myself so it’s more of a shame-filled plug instead 😅)
Thank you, ive not been on the sustainable train as much as I should be, and just looked at buying something secondhand rather than new. Don't know why I didn't think of it before 🤦
I have family members who bought a fridge several years ago (probably 2015-2016) and it was designed poorly from the beginning. Was repaired a few times and now it broke yet again. And unfortunately, this time around, it literally costs more to repair the fridge than the cost it was to buy it new! So infuriating!
I agree - I hate it when every Christmas people buy all new decorations! We have decorations from my grandparents that we've been using for years! its the same with redecorating your house.
Thank you so much! These videos are so helpful. Anytime I feel the urge to buy something, I can watch one of your videos and remember that it’s okay to wait to find things secondhand-I can always get it later!
I loved this! I’ve always been proud of my good spending habits, but I definitely found myself buying more during the pandemic, so I’m trying to cut back as well. Reevaluating what I see as wants and what I see as needs will hopefully help me break this habit!
I feel like the most difficult part of eco minimalism (in most people’s minds) is the idea that you have to give up daily comforts in a bunch of ways. I think a video about like daily things that you love but also that bring you comfort would be nice. 💗💗💗
I have been talking myself out of buying a record player! I got a Red Taylor’s Version record for Christmas last year when I lived with my parents who have a record player. I moved out and I can’t play it but I toss back and forth if I ACTUALLY need it or if I can just keep using it as cute decor. If I get one then I have to buy more records and a sound system and all the things- it won’t be cheap!!
Thank you for talking about the pressure to over spend on new place! Many of us face this problem and it’s nice to be reminded to take your time and explore 2nd hand options
Just want to plug when you do need to buy new appliances, consumer reports is a great place to go to get info on the best appliances and the ones that need the least repair and last the longest. Consumer reports has never steered me wrong, I never had to fix or replace a single appliance in 7 years since I got them.
This video comes at a great time because last weekend I just moved into my first home. So far we have only bought the necessities but don't plan on going spending crazy
honestly, second hand shops often have so much good stuff, i found lovely furnitures second hand, but thanks to covid i had to furnish my new appartement with ikea.. however, if any of it ever needs replacing, i know where to look. i found light fixtures and side tables, lovely decoration all in second hand stores. i usually donate anything i dont need or use anymore as well.
I love in this video that you point out that it's not all glamourous, but more about delaying gratification. I think that may be one of the main reasons why we have this massive problem in the world. Many of us are making up for the feelings of dissconnection from tribe, and earth with instant gratification in the form of spending. I love that you may have missmatching chairs!
I just found you from the comment section of The Financial Diet’s new video with The Minimalists getting interviewed. The vast majority of people were so put off by them, but so many people said they should have you on the podcast instead. I’m glad I read the comments because you are joy to watch!
I am lucky that I didn’t shop more during corona. I am already minimalist so my shopping aka spending money during corona went even more ⬇️. Plus me and my besty replaced our tea time in tea shop with walking (with tea in a bottle from home) which is even more fun. And we still stick to that and don’t go outside for a drink at all.
My parents were hoping to replace their fridge from the 90s and their appliance repair guy told them it keep it. Because it may not be as aesthetically pleasing, but it was repairable and would last forever.
When we bought our first home (mobile since the housing market didn’t align with our budget or timeline) we didn’t really have furniture. I bought a new sustainable couch from Sabai and I love it because you can replace the covers and cushions if needed. They also buy back your couch if you no longer want it. But everything else furniture wise I bought off offer up and our guest bed used to be my grandparents and it is made out of metal. We have been here a little over a year and I barely feel like it’s finally coming together.
My husband and I are still furnishing our house and we've been here 2 years. We put plenty of thought into our purchases. No need to rush for aesthetics.
Yep! Huuuuuge reset time. Had to buy a new phone after almost 5 yrs (mine broke and was actually MISSING for almost 24hrs) but I am going to try to refurbish the old one and repurpose it. I also decided instead of "new" (thrifted) glass bowls, I'm just using whatever misc small bowls and containers are already in our home. Said NO to cookie/gift exchanges outside of our families, decided NO to sending Christmas cards (other than a handful of specific out of state family), and have stopped buying takeout and "convenience" groceries as often, etc. This video is a huge help in getting motivated so more of this please!!!!!
Yeah, I got nearly 4 years out of my last phone, but when it couldn’t hold a charge for more than an hour of use, and I bus around the city and such, I knew it was time.
On moving & furniture - I live in a college town, and my roommates & I have moved 3 times in the past 3 years. We’ve picked up so much furniture from the side of the road because many students here don’t care to properly donate or move large items. On the bright side for us, it’s free furniture that’s often in perfect condition!
I’m currently a sustainability major at my university and have been feeling very overwhelmed with all of the environmental issues that I’ve been learning about. Do you have any tips on how to not get overwhelmed or discouraged in the sustainability field?
Rushing big purchases almost always lead to dissatisfaction. I would rather sit in an empty house than one full of stuff that didn't need to buy and barely like. During the pandemic until now I developed the unhealthy coping mechanism of shopping... I think it felt like the only thing I had control over. I wish I had tightened up sooner, though. I can feel the big one R coming.
I love how you kept emphasizing "not quickly". Take the time to wait and find the perfect 2nd hand piece. Stop with the instant gratification mentality. Excellent advice!! Love it!! This is what we need to change with our culture today.
You should check if you have home warranty insurance to take care of appliances. It's mandatory in California but not sure where you are. Also, FDIC insurance limit is $250K, not $2M, unless that's the max over multiple accounts.
I think I never have related more to one of your anti-hauls than this one 😅 Most likely because we both have been moving. I am a big fan of living in space first and then seeing what I need. I am going to have my own little sewing room and straight away I started to dream about all the things I want to get - a real wooden surface for my desk (currently it's some lightweight wood veneer) and building my own cutting table. But I can take my time and do that in a sustainable way. There is no rush.
Maybe ive been out of the loop but i love your new blond hair style! It looks so pretty on you! Thanks for all the fun content and spreading the idea of minimalism. As someone whos in the past, struggled with buying too much house crap, I truly appreciate the helpful reminders of living with less. I love any new ideas you may have about reusing items and repurposing objects, so keep the videos comin :) Cheers!
I never understood the desire to fill your home up quickly. I’m pretty sure the fun part is furnishing your home with collected things from your travels, waiting until you find pieces that you really fall in love with +good deal+ more sustainable options and THEN you are e to really satisfied with your purchase. Being done with the whole thing quickly would leave me a little sad.
I really enjoyed watching this, I've been wanting a new vegetable rack but don't want to buy something new for all the above reasons and earlier today I managed to get one for free on Olio here in the UK. Me and my partner are planning on moving next year and have decided that as much of our furniture as possible is going to be second hand, it helps the planet, supports a good cause and saves you money what's not to like, it's a wi win! 👍😎
Your plants are so beautiful. You asked for feedback on your background and it’s lovely, but I found the lamp by your head to be distracting. Thank you for this video. Great info for the holiday shopping season
Was actually just talking with my boyfriend about our new space and how I feel that buying everything new right when you move in is how spaces feel outdated super quickly as everything matches a certain trend or style from that time and you will be more likely to want to replace everything in 5 years when it feels stale and outdated. whereas if you collect prices over time it creates a more timeless space with pieces you really love.
I like the personal challenge of finding secondhand goods. There’s actually a used appliances store we got our washer/dryer from and that was 7 years ago. Our new dishwasher from 7 years ago on the other hand 🥴. I often think for appliances it’s the luck of the draw…
If you haven't you might look into a home maintenance warranty. My husband and I don't have one because he has been able to fix everything so far and doesn't see the need for one. My mother-in-law does have one and pays a 75.00 service fee to look at whatever is not working. If the company can't fix it they replace it. She has had several things fixed for only 75.00 and received a brand new washing machine. I am not sure how much the monthly or year cost is.
I have a car that’s almost 13 years old that now has a lot of repairs needed. The total for the repairs is going to be more than I paid for it when I bought it used, so I’ve been struggling with deciding if it would be better to sell it and buy a newer (but still used) car or just shell out the money to fix it 🙃 it’s hard thinking about it from a financial point of view and also taking sustainability into account
I needed one of these videos today- thank you! Also, after viewing some videos in the new place, I still love the background - I like the close ups better as the plants are less distracting!
Check your home warranty (ask your realtor if you bought one) for your appliance repair! We had it and repaired our fridge for $85. If they can’t repair it, they’ll replace it
Yep. My washer broke after about 6 years and the repair man tried to fix it but it didn't last. So I ended up just having to get another. However, when I did it I learned from the repair man which brands are the best. He told me which brands he has to repair all the time and which ones he rarely sees. So if you need a new washer, the speed queen is apparently the best. It's the only commercial washer that is easily available to standard consumers. After doing research, I found this to be the best across the board. They don't put any fancy features into it and the parts are commercial grade.
Your video inspired me this week to say no to a few things that I could do without! Thanks for making a video like this- the logic flow and your anaylsis was really helpful to observe! Esp since so many of these were completely different scenarios/reasons.
Gen X’er here-Cash is king -Pay off as much debt as u can & liquidate what u can to get cash. Small things like proper auto tire inflation, turning the thermostat down in winter & off while your away from home can help.
i talk myself out of buying more fabric. i have bins and bins of craft supplies, i don't reeeeally need more. but damn that pine tree waffle knit at Joann's... had to talk myself out of buying that. i went in for just 1 zipper and i left with just 1 zipper! yaaaay!
All of my furniture s second-hand and I love how they have stories already. Like my sofa set was made by my great uncle and I used to sit on the armrest when I was a kid watching tv with grandpa. The dresser is something my mom's friend was selling. I took my time with the outdoor furniture until one day a nice set came along and it was originally from South-America. I do not feel at all connected with the kitchen cabinets from Ikea that the prevous owners had chosen, I mean I am not chancing them, I do like them, but they don't have the kind of history that sparks my interest.
Yea, I too got carried away during the pandemic!! Being online more presented more adds and more opportunities for me to hit purchase! I bought a ton of Funko Pops that I now regret!! A bunch of plastic crap!! I am much more careful now on what I buy and if I do see something I really want I wait 24 - 48 hours to see how I feel. Most often I lose interest and realize I didn't need it on the first place. Thank you for helping me to be more conscious of what I purchase and keeping the earth in mind! 😊❤
I also put down a few possible impulse buys for Christmas gifts. I've stuck to my shopping list and the extras are homemade things that used only materials I already owned.
I once had to get rid of a Bosch washer after the ONLY thing that broke was the inside of the ON/OFF button! It couldn't be repaired because this spare part was no longer available anywhere. We tried finding it (or any possible replacement) in every European country for 6 months, during which I kept washing everything by hand. In the end I had to give it away so that at least all the parts that still worked great could be reused, and we bought another washer (another brand!). I was so upset at Bosch which is supposed to be one of the best quality brands in Europe! Programmed obsolescence is one of the worst culprits of pollution and wasting the planet's resources, and it is criminal.
I am the queen of talking myself out of purchases. With the holidays upon us i always look for gift items on Mercari first and work my way out. When people give me. Alit in lat October or early November i can often find their gifts second hand unless its explicitly an item that has to be purchased new
One thing my dad taught me about buying things is that if it isn't on the shopping list, think a minimum of 3 separate times about it. Walk away from it in the store, but come back to it before checkout if I really want to spend my money on it. Do I need it? What do I want it for? Would I use it? Where would it go if it was brought home? Is it a financially responsible decision? Could I find better price/quality elsewhere? If I don't have a solid answer to these questions, then I'm less likely to even want to buy the thing in the end. It was nice to look at, but ultimately not worth my time or money. I hope this line of thinking helps.
I don't know if you've mentioned estate sales before but they're a great way to find random items secondhand. You can usually at least browse photos online before you go if not bid online and just pick it up
I value your opinions so much! Thank you thank you ❤️❤️ Also, get a a home warranty! It covers your appliances and you only pay the service fee. It’s been well worth it for us so far!
The same thing happened to my washer about a month after I bought my house in September. It’s one of the fancy Samsung “smart” washers from 2016. It completely stopped working. My fiancé and I tried every thing to fix it. Finally we gave up and let it sit untouched for a week. Just as I was about to call a repair person, I decided to test the washer one more time. It fixed itself somehow! I was so relieved, but now I’m very cautious when I use it because I really don’t want it to break. 😅
Hi Shelby I whole heartily agree with your thinking on everything in your vlog. I unfortunately am not in a good financial position & havnt been all my adult life so I have learnt to do without a lot of things that I really don't need anyway. Currently I live in a small country town in Australia where we have no uber eats etc etc and not been financial enough to spend on takeaways. Fortunately I love cooking & cook from scratch out of what I have in my cupboards/ fridge also 90 Plus % of my household items are secondhand. But I really need to replace my couches for example that I was given as its got shredded strands everywhere but I'll keep looking until I find the one I like and it Definitely won't be brand new. :) I prefer second hand & older styles as they are often better quality and waiting is my second name. 😅🤗 its just inbuilt in me now after having to wait years often to find what I like or can afford. :) in this new house ive been in now for 8 years I can only think of a few things I have bought brand new & that is a washing machine a television and my tablet/ mobile (Cell phone ) I wish I didn't have to struggle so much But I think that I am better for it overall. As I am Not an over consumer, I don't follow trends or fashions and I care about the planet among money other things. I don't get why people have to have everything now & only the best as they put it. :/ I watch your vlogs and think its great information for people that are just learning to change their ways & certainly still get good hints & tips myself but have been doing a majority of what you talk about regularly. My next and biggest hurdle is finding a man who's ideals etc alighn with mine But I'm not holding my breath over it. For now I'll just learn to be content with myself and enjoy my life choices as much as possible. ;) keep up the good work. 🤩🤩 ohh & I love the vlog when you went to the Teracycle plant. 😁😁🤗🇦🇺🇳🇿
We carry a home warranty that costs about $25 per month. It covers all major appliances, furnace, ac, and water heater. Our deductible is $75 and if they can't fix it they'll replace it. We just saved hundreds on our oven that broke right after we moved in. I do recommend it but the waste part of a broken appliance still sucks.
i moved in with my in laws for a bit when we moved states and their oven wouldn't turn off without switching the breaker, the fridge would constantly stop making ice, the washer sometimes would just give an error code. then one day the fridge completely stopped working so they replaced that and then the washer stopped working and by this time the oven had completely stopped working and only one burner worked on the top so they decided to replace everything. The appliances were only 3.5 years old (the fridge 3 when it stopped) they were so sad that they wasted the money for it all to break so soon.
My partner has fixed our washing machine twice and the parts were really cheap he also has fixed numerous appliances around the house to save money and we look on freecycle to see if there is anything that could be usefulxx
love your backdrop! so pretty and vibrant. i moved into a new place a few months ago and got ceiling fans and lights that look great AND were inexpensive from a secondhand shop (Rebuilding Exchange in Chicago). our favorite dining table is from the H4H ReStore - it’s so satisfying to find the piece you’ve been looking for!
We had our dryer start making a terrible squeaking sound that was clearly not good!! We had it repaired, rather than buy a new one. It’s almost 15 years old and it is like new now. The technician said it may be cheaper to buy new, as well:)
Speaking of your washer. I had broke my computer monitor, and I was really adamant about not buying a new monitor. Which, I didnt do... but the replacement screen for my monitor was the same price as buying a new one... :( (I think it might have been a little bit more, tbh.)
My spending went down in 2020... it became more need specific than in the past. I traveled for work in 2021 and expenses went up a bit but came back down before 2022... Inflation is hard on everyone.
Dude! I caved and bought a salad spinner new. I was also looking for a used one for months! I justified it because we use it so often, but I wish I found it secondhand.
I personally am working on prioritizing but from small local shops that prioritize selling local made items to cut down on the amount of shipping impacts.
My boyfriend studied economics and is a securities lawyer, from what I’ve heard, the economy is a house of cards built on the military industrial complex. Money used to be tied to the gold standard, every dollar was equal to a certain amount of gold. Now, money is being printed and spent, and people around the globe use the dollar because it’s more “stable” mostly because it’s backed up with military might. (We start wars to insure the dollar is used to trade, transport commodities and oil)
That is so infuriating that your (basically) brand-new washer failed. I visited my great-grandmother a few months ago *she is 101 years old* and living her best life in her condo~ and she was talking about her washer/dryer has been working perfectly for 33 years!!!!! I was astonished. She continued on to say how things today aren't made the same as they once were. I believe that the brand she had for both was GE. So appliance companies definitely have the knowledge to keep the same level of quality, they just choose not to.
Yep, my mom had the same washer for over 20 years at our old house
Yep ! I had a washer from 2003 I think and it just gave out this year - I was dreading getting rid of it and hung on it for ages as didn’t want to buy a modern machine as they break sooo fast!!!! They don’t make them the same and that’s a fact !!!!!!! I now have a hand washer as back up stock 😂 even though I got a new machine on sale 😐
Companies make more money if things break after a few years and we have to re buy
Our oven (the best I’ve ever used!) was purchased my the previous owner in 1998! It’s only recently starting to die but we’re going to attempt to fix it
We had to replace our 35 year old washer and dryer because the parts finally wore out to the point where they were no longer replaceable and the washer/dryer people told us that these new ones would last us a good 5 years. 😢
I get the whole “I don’t need to furnish my house in a month” thing. I think it took me close to two months to just thrift the perfect couch. My whole house is thrifted, and I think 9 times out of 10 my home is more curated than those who bought a bunch of fast furniture. It’s well worth to sit on the floor for a while 🥴
I used to love watching haul videos but now I love anti-hauls even more! 💜 We need more content like this on the internet!
My Uncle got one of those commercial use washer dryers with the coins. Still works up today (10+ years!), and they just reuse the same quarter 😅
Hahaha I love this 😝
Oof genius 😮 I love that
As a pregnant person I feel like I talk myself out of buying things all day long. My strategy is telling myself that the situation is gonna be overwhelming at times by nature. I don't need to stretch my budget and already be overwhelmed by all the decisions and choices I probably will never have to make if I just wait. I wanna be excited for the little person I'm gonna get to meet and not the stuff around it. And I wanna find out what we need as a family by getting to know us and solving the problems that will actually occur at the time they do.
“I wanna be excited for the little person I'm gonna get to meet and not the stuff around it. ”
👆 this!
Plus you need so little in fact and everything is very easily found second hand as you need it for such a short period. Enjoy your little one 🥰
As a person who had a baby 4 months ago, i want to tell you that this is totally doable! In a minimalist newborn essentials video someone said that baby only needs a place to sleep, a few clothes and you. ❤ It is so true in the beginning, than if you feel like you lack of something or something would make your life a lot easier you can buy it then. Every baby is different and as you get to know your baby you will know exactly what he/she needs. (Sorry if my english is not correct, I am hungarian)
What a lovely reply. I hope I can also keep this attitude. I wish you all the best with your little one. 😊 And my English isn't perfect either. 😁
Omg ME! I’m slowing collecting things from a buy nothing group but there is so much and I keep hearing people play on first time mother anxiety about secondhand things not being safe for the baby and I have to remember that women have been birthing forever and none of this stuff existed!!
I got a new job in June that doubled my salary, and I feel very financially secure and stable now where I didn’t before. And I immediately fell into the trap of making more and therefore spending more. I was already intentional and thoughtful about what I bought, but I have definitely let myself buy more frivolous things that make me happy that I wouldn’t have before. I’m trying to reign it in now.
I feel you. I think that’s healthy for a limited time, but if it’s becoming a lifestyle then might be time to reconsider. 🙂
Lifestyle creep is so real
First off, YOURE GLOWING!! You look so happy and I'm so happy for you.
And the people buying all new appliances etc when they move... debt! A lot of people carry plenty of consumer debt and Do Not Care!
Couldnt agree more with u ! I’m buying a house and people told me well you need save another 10-15K on top to redo the inside of your house like ?
I’m like what ?! Why ? I have a fridge freezer / chest freezer and washing machine and my clothes house and bed base plus tv&tv stand ... i ain’t going to die if don’t do it the minute I move in lol 😂
I finally broke down and got a new winter coat-actually just ordered it today. I live in a very cold climate northern plains state. I have been wearing an extra sweater when outside, racing from house to car, then blasting heat. This year I decided I needed a real coat as I won't be driving much and need to be warm while shoveling or trying to get some exercise outside. Have not had a new or any winter coat for at least 5 years.
Consider yourself lucky…my area frequently hits -40, and I bus…but, that being said, I wear my winter jacket until it wears out, which is several years.
Recently I’ve convinced myself to stop buying reusable Starbucks cups. I just have so many and I realized I really don’t need anymore, no matter how pretty they are.
The comical amount of plants in the background 😂😂 I’m here for it
Same 😂🌱
We bought our flat three years ago and are just now putting on the finishing touches. There were many things we did buy new BUT we intentionally bought from small, local business that handmade many of our items from European wood (we are fortunate we have the budget for that). These are items I plan on having until I die and for people to be able to use after.
The rate at which electronic s die is mind blowing. We definitely need more businesses that focus on repair and secondhand goods.
You made me feel better about our washer (purchased new in 2014) being on its last leg. I was so mad that it only lasted 8 years, but I guess it was a pretty good deal. Now I'm nervous to buy a new one when this inevitably breaks. We're keeping it until it stops though...even if it shakes the house every spin cycle. 😅
you could always take it to the extreme and DIY a washer thats powered by cycling 😂 honesty, it would be great for me when mine eventually stops working
@@korwynze6288 I wish! 😂 We have 4 little boys (including newborn twins). The amount of laundry in this house is insane. I'd be cycling 24/7. 🤣 🤣
Maybe you can attach a jar of cream to make fresh butter lol
When my parent's washer+dryer broke down, they just replaced it with a similar refurbished one from the repair store 🙂 it included taking away the broken one (w/c likely will be repaired and resold). We find that the newer models of washer+dryers break far sooner than the older models!
Hi there! Also if you or your partner is handy you can take the drum out of the machine and use it as a fire bucket outside in the cooler weather. ;)
literally was planning a shopping spree for this saturday and you talked me out of it. i am going to get a few necessities and i’m going to the thrift store first but thank you for this video!!
I just wanted to let you know that I love your content. As a fellow green&gay I think you do great work. I just moved in to my new apartment as well. I am having the same approach as you, but was just starting to get a bit discouraged. You kept me on track. Tnx! If you guys are going to have kids I just know there is so much good content to come. I have a 1,5 year old and the amount of things people tell you you need that you actually don't is astonishing. Keep up the good work 💜
First comment of mine on YT ever haha
This is just what I needed to hear. Holidays f w my head and say buy buy buy. But no!! I don’t need anything and shouldn’t just get something because it is a holiday!! Thx girl- great content ❤
I agree it is soo tempting when you see these super cute, super fast renovations on the internet - and you have all these perfect inspo photos, and you're ready to have your space the way you want it! But it's just so worth it to slowly collect the perfect pieces - it takes longer but you truly end up with a more unique, fun, and personal space (in addition to, you know, being better for the planet obv!)
Part of why I appreciate you is because you share tips for sustainability and wealth. I think it's really indicative of how capitalism screws over the planet, workers, and consumers but markets our own destruction to us as something that will finally make us happy. It's not an accident that the products killing our planet are also keeping people poor.
I love that you acknowledged that it's hard being the person not getting new shit all the time. I often get FOMO but have to always keep in mind why I'm not a hyper consumer. Listening to your videos always reaffirms my choices and gives me a much-needed breath of fresh air. Thanks ❤️
please do more of those, they help me so much. And I know I can "sound" silly, but the part "the aesthetics shouldn't matter more than the planet" realy spoke to me, my mom raised me to be one of those "I deserve this pretty whatever" kind of girl, and I realy don't want to anymore! Sometimes little insights like these make a difference for a lifetime! THANK YOU
We got our couch from my boyfriends parents. It was hurting his mom’s back so they bought new ones. And we got a gorgeous, great quality couch second hand for free! And we need a better nightstand situation than we have right now but instead of buying new, I’ve been checking FB Marketplace and Craigslist and thrift stores when we go.
I love checking Facebook marketplace!
People buying all new stuff for their homes in only a month is the opposite of slow design, which is a movement I think you would totally love Shelbi! (And many of the other commenters on here too... I actually have a video about it argh sorry for the shameless plug, but actually I hate plugging myself so it’s more of a shame-filled plug instead 😅)
Thank you, ive not been on the sustainable train as much as I should be, and just looked at buying something secondhand rather than new. Don't know why I didn't think of it before 🤦
I have family members who bought a fridge several years ago (probably 2015-2016) and it was designed poorly from the beginning. Was repaired a few times and now it broke yet again. And unfortunately, this time around, it literally costs more to repair the fridge than the cost it was to buy it new! So infuriating!
I agree - I hate it when every Christmas people buy all new decorations! We have decorations from my grandparents that we've been using for years! its the same with redecorating your house.
Thank you so much! These videos are so helpful. Anytime I feel the urge to buy something, I can watch one of your videos and remember that it’s okay to wait to find things secondhand-I can always get it later!
I loved this! I’ve always been proud of my good spending habits, but I definitely found myself buying more during the pandemic, so I’m trying to cut back as well. Reevaluating what I see as wants and what I see as needs will hopefully help me break this habit!
I feel like the most difficult part of eco minimalism (in most people’s minds) is the idea that you have to give up daily comforts in a bunch of ways. I think a video about like daily things that you love but also that bring you comfort would be nice. 💗💗💗
I have been talking myself out of buying a record player! I got a Red Taylor’s Version record for Christmas last year when I lived with my parents who have a record player. I moved out and I can’t play it but I toss back and forth if I ACTUALLY need it or if I can just keep using it as cute decor. If I get one then I have to buy more records and a sound system and all the things- it won’t be cheap!!
Check your good will or local thrift store! I just found one at the goodwill and only paid $35!!
Thank you for talking about the pressure to over spend on new place! Many of us face this problem and it’s nice to be reminded to take your time and explore 2nd hand options
Just want to plug when you do need to buy new appliances, consumer reports is a great place to go to get info on the best appliances and the ones that need the least repair and last the longest. Consumer reports has never steered me wrong, I never had to fix or replace a single appliance in 7 years since I got them.
This video comes at a great time because last weekend I just moved into my first home. So far we have only bought the necessities but don't plan on going spending crazy
Yes!!! I never understood why people buy so many new things when they move! Anyways, thank you Shelbi for constantly educating us!
Love everything you said in this video! And it's sooo satisfying when you finally find that one item you've been looking for forever :D
honestly, second hand shops often have so much good stuff, i found lovely furnitures second hand, but thanks to covid i had to furnish my new appartement with ikea..
however, if any of it ever needs replacing, i know where to look. i found light fixtures and side tables, lovely decoration all in second hand stores.
i usually donate anything i dont need or use anymore as well.
I love in this video that you point out that it's not all glamourous, but more about delaying gratification. I think that may be one of the main reasons why we have this massive problem in the world. Many of us are making up for the feelings of dissconnection from tribe, and earth with instant gratification in the form of spending. I love that you may have missmatching chairs!
I just found you from the comment section of The Financial Diet’s new video with The Minimalists getting interviewed. The vast majority of people were so put off by them, but so many people said they should have you on the podcast instead. I’m glad I read the comments because you are joy to watch!
I am lucky that I didn’t shop more during corona. I am already minimalist so my shopping aka spending money during corona went even more ⬇️. Plus me and my besty replaced our tea time in tea shop with walking (with tea in a bottle from home) which is even more fun. And we still stick to that and don’t go outside for a drink at all.
shelbi thank you for always being honest and transparent
My parents were hoping to replace their fridge from the 90s and their appliance repair guy told them it keep it. Because it may not be as aesthetically pleasing, but it was repairable and would last forever.
When we bought our first home (mobile since the housing market didn’t align with our budget or timeline) we didn’t really have furniture. I bought a new sustainable couch from Sabai and I love it because you can replace the covers and cushions if needed. They also buy back your couch if you no longer want it. But everything else furniture wise I bought off offer up and our guest bed used to be my grandparents and it is made out of metal. We have been here a little over a year and I barely feel like it’s finally coming together.
My husband and I are still furnishing our house and we've been here 2 years. We put plenty of thought into our purchases. No need to rush for aesthetics.
Yep! Huuuuuge reset time. Had to buy a new phone after almost 5 yrs (mine broke and was actually MISSING for almost 24hrs) but I am going to try to refurbish the old one and repurpose it. I also decided instead of "new" (thrifted) glass bowls, I'm just using whatever misc small bowls and containers are already in our home. Said NO to cookie/gift exchanges outside of our families, decided NO to sending Christmas cards (other than a handful of specific out of state family), and have stopped buying takeout and "convenience" groceries as often, etc. This video is a huge help in getting motivated so more of this please!!!!!
Yeah, I got nearly 4 years out of my last phone, but when it couldn’t hold a charge for more than an hour of use, and I bus around the city and such, I knew it was time.
On moving & furniture - I live in a college town, and my roommates & I have moved 3 times in the past 3 years. We’ve picked up so much furniture from the side of the road because many students here don’t care to properly donate or move large items. On the bright side for us, it’s free furniture that’s often in perfect condition!
I’m currently a sustainability major at my university and have been feeling very overwhelmed with all of the environmental issues that I’ve been learning about. Do you have any tips on how to not get overwhelmed or discouraged in the sustainability field?
Rushing big purchases almost always lead to dissatisfaction. I would rather sit in an empty house than one full of stuff that didn't need to buy and barely like. During the pandemic until now I developed the unhealthy coping mechanism of shopping... I think it felt like the only thing I had control over. I wish I had tightened up sooner, though. I can feel the big one R coming.
Yay the audio is better and much easier on the ears!
I love how you kept emphasizing "not quickly". Take the time to wait and find the perfect 2nd hand piece. Stop with the instant gratification mentality. Excellent advice!! Love it!! This is what we need to change with our culture today.
My parents have a fridge that's about 50 years old and it's still working. It's avocado green, which you don't see anymore.
I had an avocado green dryer at my old house. It finally died about 10 years ago.
You fixed the audio and it sounds amazing again! Thank you, Shelbi.
You should check if you have home warranty insurance to take care of appliances. It's mandatory in California but not sure where you are. Also, FDIC insurance limit is $250K, not $2M, unless that's the max over multiple accounts.
I think I never have related more to one of your anti-hauls than this one 😅 Most likely because we both have been moving. I am a big fan of living in space first and then seeing what I need. I am going to have my own little sewing room and straight away I started to dream about all the things I want to get - a real wooden surface for my desk (currently it's some lightweight wood veneer) and building my own cutting table. But I can take my time and do that in a sustainable way. There is no rush.
Maybe ive been out of the loop but i love your new blond hair style! It looks so pretty on you! Thanks for all the fun content and spreading the idea of minimalism. As someone whos in the past, struggled with buying too much house crap, I truly appreciate the helpful reminders of living with less. I love any new ideas you may have about reusing items and repurposing objects, so keep the videos comin :) Cheers!
I never understood the desire to fill your home up quickly. I’m pretty sure the fun part is furnishing your home with collected things from your travels, waiting until you find pieces that you really fall in love with +good deal+ more sustainable options and THEN you are e to really satisfied with your purchase. Being done with the whole thing quickly would leave me a little sad.
I really enjoyed watching this, I've been wanting a new vegetable rack but don't want to buy something new for all the above reasons and earlier today I managed to get one for free on Olio here in the UK. Me and my partner are planning on moving next year and have decided that as much of our furniture as possible is going to be second hand, it helps the planet, supports a good cause and saves you money what's not to like, it's a wi win! 👍😎
I love the new plant wall! Also the audio does sound better
Your plants are so beautiful. You asked for feedback on your background and it’s lovely, but I found the lamp by your head to be distracting. Thank you for this video. Great info for the holiday shopping season
Was actually just talking with my boyfriend about our new space and how I feel that buying everything new right when you move in is how spaces feel outdated super quickly as everything matches a certain trend or style from that time and you will be more likely to want to replace everything in 5 years when it feels stale and outdated. whereas if you collect prices over time it creates a more timeless space with pieces you really love.
I like the personal challenge of finding secondhand goods. There’s actually a used appliances store we got our washer/dryer from and that was 7 years ago. Our new dishwasher from 7 years ago on the other hand 🥴. I often think for appliances it’s the luck of the draw…
If you haven't you might look into a home maintenance warranty. My husband and I don't have one because he has been able to fix everything so far and doesn't see the need for one. My mother-in-law does have one and pays a 75.00 service fee to look at whatever is not working. If the company can't fix it they replace it. She has had several things fixed for only 75.00 and received a brand new washing machine. I am not sure how much the monthly or year cost is.
That’s a lot of plants, I love it
I have a car that’s almost 13 years old that now has a lot of repairs needed. The total for the repairs is going to be more than I paid for it when I bought it used, so I’ve been struggling with deciding if it would be better to sell it and buy a newer (but still used) car or just shell out the money to fix it 🙃 it’s hard thinking about it from a financial point of view and also taking sustainability into account
Lol you look so small with your background it's adorable! Love following along with your move! It's coming along beautifully!
I needed one of these videos today- thank you! Also, after viewing some videos in the new place, I still love the background - I like the close ups better as the plants are less distracting!
Check your home warranty (ask your realtor if you bought one) for your appliance repair! We had it and repaired our fridge for $85. If they can’t repair it, they’ll replace it
Yep. My washer broke after about 6 years and the repair man tried to fix it but it didn't last. So I ended up just having to get another. However, when I did it I learned from the repair man which brands are the best. He told me which brands he has to repair all the time and which ones he rarely sees. So if you need a new washer, the speed queen is apparently the best. It's the only commercial washer that is easily available to standard consumers. After doing research, I found this to be the best across the board. They don't put any fancy features into it and the parts are commercial grade.
Your video inspired me this week to say no to a few things that I could do without! Thanks for making a video like this- the logic flow and your anaylsis was really helpful to observe! Esp since so many of these were completely different scenarios/reasons.
1. I got Wealthfront about 2 months ago from one of your other videos and I LOVE it
2. audio was so much better in this video!
Gen X’er here-Cash is king -Pay off as much debt as u can & liquidate what u can to get cash. Small things like proper auto tire inflation, turning the thermostat down in winter & off while your away from home can help.
i talk myself out of buying more fabric. i have bins and bins of craft supplies, i don't reeeeally need more. but damn that pine tree waffle knit at Joann's... had to talk myself out of buying that. i went in for just 1 zipper and i left with just 1 zipper! yaaaay!
All of my furniture s second-hand and I love how they have stories already. Like my sofa set was made by my great uncle and I used to sit on the armrest when I was a kid watching tv with grandpa. The dresser is something my mom's friend was selling. I took my time with the outdoor furniture until one day a nice set came along and it was originally from South-America. I do not feel at all connected with the kitchen cabinets from Ikea that the prevous owners had chosen, I mean I am not chancing them, I do like them, but they don't have the kind of history that sparks my interest.
I love the blue wall covered in plants in the background! Love the new setup
Yea, I too got carried away during the pandemic!! Being online more presented more adds and more opportunities for me to hit purchase! I bought a ton of Funko Pops that I now regret!! A bunch of plastic crap!! I am much more careful now on what I buy and if I do see something I really want I wait 24 - 48 hours to see how I feel. Most often I lose interest and realize I didn't need it on the first place. Thank you for helping me to be more conscious of what I purchase and keeping the earth in mind! 😊❤
I also put down a few possible impulse buys for Christmas gifts. I've stuck to my shopping list and the extras are homemade things that used only materials I already owned.
I once had to get rid of a Bosch washer after the ONLY thing that broke was the inside of the ON/OFF button! It couldn't be repaired because this spare part was no longer available anywhere. We tried finding it (or any possible replacement) in every European country for 6 months, during which I kept washing everything by hand. In the end I had to give it away so that at least all the parts that still worked great could be reused, and we bought another washer (another brand!). I was so upset at Bosch which is supposed to be one of the best quality brands in Europe! Programmed obsolescence is one of the worst culprits of pollution and wasting the planet's resources, and it is criminal.
I am the queen of talking myself out of purchases. With the holidays upon us i always look for gift items on Mercari first and work my way out. When people give me. Alit in lat October or early November i can often find their gifts second hand unless its explicitly an item that has to be purchased new
Yes to the furniture! An acquaintance of mine sold all their furniture secondhand then bought all new furniture for their next house! Can't relate
Yeaaaah fixed audio
One thing my dad taught me about buying things is that if it isn't on the shopping list, think a minimum of 3 separate times about it. Walk away from it in the store, but come back to it before checkout if I really want to spend my money on it.
Do I need it?
What do I want it for?
Would I use it? Where would it go if it was brought home?
Is it a financially responsible decision? Could I find better price/quality elsewhere?
If I don't have a solid answer to these questions, then I'm less likely to even want to buy the thing in the end. It was nice to look at, but ultimately not worth my time or money.
I hope this line of thinking helps.
love this series and your new set-up looks great
I miss the old setup but I do like the new one. I love seeing the plants behind you!
I don't know if you've mentioned estate sales before but they're a great way to find random items secondhand. You can usually at least browse photos online before you go if not bid online and just pick it up
I value your opinions so much! Thank you thank you ❤️❤️
Also, get a a home warranty! It covers your appliances and you only pay the service fee. It’s been well worth it for us so far!
The same thing happened to my washer about a month after I bought my house in September. It’s one of the fancy Samsung “smart” washers from 2016. It completely stopped working. My fiancé and I tried every thing to fix it. Finally we gave up and let it sit untouched for a week. Just as I was about to call a repair person, I decided to test the washer one more time. It fixed itself somehow! I was so relieved, but now I’m very cautious when I use it because I really don’t want it to break. 😅
LOVE the paint color and the way you placed your plants
Hi Shelby I whole heartily agree with your thinking on everything in your vlog. I unfortunately am not in a good financial position & havnt been all my adult life so I have learnt to do without a lot of things that I really don't need anyway. Currently I live in a small country town in Australia where we have no uber eats etc etc and not been financial enough to spend on takeaways. Fortunately I love cooking & cook from scratch out of what I have in my cupboards/ fridge also 90 Plus % of my household items are secondhand. But I really need to replace my couches for example that I was given as its got shredded strands everywhere but I'll keep looking until I find the one I like and it Definitely won't be brand new. :) I prefer second hand & older styles as they are often better quality and waiting is my second name. 😅🤗 its just inbuilt in me now after having to wait years often to find what I like or can afford. :) in this new house ive been in now for 8 years I can only think of a few things I have bought brand new & that is a washing machine a television and my tablet/ mobile (Cell phone ) I wish I didn't have to struggle so much But I think that I am better for it overall. As I am Not an over consumer, I don't follow trends or fashions and I care about the planet among money other things. I don't get why people have to have everything now & only the best as they put it. :/ I watch your vlogs and think its great information for people that are just learning to change their ways & certainly still get good hints & tips myself but have been doing a majority of what you talk about regularly. My next and biggest hurdle is finding a man who's ideals etc alighn with mine But I'm not holding my breath over it. For now I'll just learn to be content with myself and enjoy my life choices as much as possible. ;) keep up the good work. 🤩🤩 ohh & I love the vlog when you went to the Teracycle plant. 😁😁🤗🇦🇺🇳🇿
Just cancelled a pusheen subscription box. I love that silly little cat but I don’t need a box of random items that didn’t intentionally pick out.
We carry a home warranty that costs about $25 per month. It covers all major appliances, furnace, ac, and water heater. Our deductible is $75 and if they can't fix it they'll replace it. We just saved hundreds on our oven that broke right after we moved in. I do recommend it but the waste part of a broken appliance still sucks.
i moved in with my in laws for a bit when we moved states and their oven wouldn't turn off without switching the breaker, the fridge would constantly stop making ice, the washer sometimes would just give an error code. then one day the fridge completely stopped working so they replaced that and then the washer stopped working and by this time the oven had completely stopped working and only one burner worked on the top so they decided to replace everything. The appliances were only 3.5 years old (the fridge 3 when it stopped) they were so sad that they wasted the money for it all to break so soon.
Our dryer and washer a perfectly fine after 10 years of non-stop using because we have German Brands.
My partner has fixed our washing machine twice and the parts were really cheap he also has fixed numerous appliances around the house to save money and we look on freecycle to see if there is anything that could be usefulxx
love your backdrop! so pretty and vibrant. i moved into a new place a few months ago and got ceiling fans and lights that look great AND were inexpensive from a secondhand shop (Rebuilding Exchange in Chicago). our favorite dining table is from the H4H ReStore - it’s so satisfying to find the piece you’ve been looking for!
We had our dryer start making a terrible squeaking sound that was clearly not good!! We had it repaired, rather than buy a new one. It’s almost 15 years old and it is like new now. The technician said it may be cheaper to buy new, as well:)
Speaking of your washer. I had broke my computer monitor, and I was really adamant about not buying a new monitor. Which, I didnt do... but the replacement screen for my monitor was the same price as buying a new one... :( (I think it might have been a little bit more, tbh.)
My spending went down in 2020... it became more need specific than in the past. I traveled for work in 2021 and expenses went up a bit but came back down before 2022... Inflation is hard on everyone.
Dude! I caved and bought a salad spinner new. I was also looking for a used one for months! I justified it because we use it so often, but I wish I found it secondhand.
Thanks for the video! Definitely helped the juices flow! Thinking more about how I spend money as I make a move as well!
I personally am working on prioritizing but from small local shops that prioritize selling local made items to cut down on the amount of shipping impacts.
My boyfriend studied economics and is a securities lawyer, from what I’ve heard, the economy is a house of cards built on the military industrial complex. Money used to be tied to the gold standard, every dollar was equal to a certain amount of gold. Now, money is being printed and spent, and people around the globe use the dollar because it’s more “stable” mostly because it’s backed up with military might. (We start wars to insure the dollar is used to trade, transport commodities and oil)
I bought a house and furnished it 100% 2nd hand and it’s exactly what I want. It took a year to curate exactly what I wanted.
Amen on the washer. You still saved half the price not replacing which should feel good