How exactly do we choose our products?
The Buy Me Once Research Team has to be certain that we select only the best long-lasting items of true quality. As a result, we're highly discerning. Our thorough, in-depth research takes us all the way through a product’s design and manufacture, so you can rest assured you’re buying something that will stand the test of time, from someone you can trust.
We are a small team of researchers, whose combined knowledge spans a wide range of product expertise. Our research is always independent - no company can pay to be on Buy Me Once. We take on products from both established heritage names and new brands championing product longevity.
There are six main considerations we take into account during our research process:
Quality materials
If a product is claiming to last a very long time, it has to be made of quality stuff. We look for materials that are a cut above the rest: strong, functional and resistant to wear and tear. For instance, our bestselling Solidteknics pans are made from wrought iron, which offers the same fantastic cooking experience as cast iron whilst being stronger and lighter.
Outstanding construction
Expert craftsmanship is essential to turning these quality materials into a great product. Our partners carefully consider all aspects of their product’s construction, excelling in durability when a lesser product would break or fail. Our Blunt umbrellas, for example, have a high-tension reinforced canopy for incredible strength in all weather.
Exceptional aftercare
We look for manufacturers who take product longevity seriously. Watertight guarantees and affordable repair services ensure your product can be fixed, replaced or refunded years down the line. Our Darn Tough socks, for instance, are covered by a no-quibble lifetime guarantee. If they wear out, simply post them back for another pair free of charge.
Timeless design
A product can be incredibly well-made, but if you fall out of love with it, it will get thrown away anyway. This is why we look for products that have timeless, classic designs, which won’t become dated and could even improve with age. Blackhorse Lane Ateliers’ raw denim jeans are a great example - this classic garment fades and shapes to your body over time, creating jeans unique to you.
Responsibly made
We love products which are made with people and the environment in mind. We require basic ethical manufacturing standards from all our partners, and celebrate those going the extra mile. For example, Elvis and Kresse accessories are made entirely in one factory from ultra-tough recycled British firehose, and 50% of all their profits are donated to charity.
Innovation
We love finding designs that extend a product’s lifespan in innovative ways. Whilst sometimes the best solution is to have something really, really solid, lots of our partners have found incredibly clever ways to increase longevity. Our modular headphones by AIAIAI can be repaired or upgraded with ease, because they're made up of individual parts. If the cable breaks, you can get a new one instead of throwing away the whole unit.
If you think you know of something that fits the bill, please get in touch! We’re always looking for new long-lasting products, from companies both big and small.