These 15 Products Are Incredibly Cheap to Make. So Why Do They Cost So Much?

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Everything seems to be getting more expensive. This is even happening on things that are cheap to make.

This article sheds light on the stark differences between manufacturing costs and retail prices for products ranging from soothing candles to high-tech smartphones.

By exploring smarter, cost-effective alternatives to standard purchases, you’ll gain valuable insights into how to keep more money in your pocket without sacrificing quality or comfort.

Here are 15 things that are cheap to make, but still cost us a lot. Let us know if we missed any or if you have any hacks to make them cost less!

Table of Contents

1. Candles: A Flicker of Unnecessary Expense

A Woman Smelling the Fragrance of a Candle on a Clear Glass Container

The soothing glow of scented candles can transform a home. Yet, the markup on these simple pleasures is often astronomical.

With basic supplies, a homemade candle costs barely a dollar, questioning the need to splurge on branded versions that offer the same ambiance.

2. Eyeglasses: Seeing Through the Price

girl in glasses — image source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/photo-of-woman-wearing-denim-jacket-3918401/

Eyewear is undoubtedly important for quality of life, but the cost of chic designer frames is often a reflection of brand prestige rather than quality.

With manufacturing costs as low as $14, choosing simpler, less branded eyewear doesn’t just save money. It makes economic sense.

3. College Textbooks: An Educational Overhead

Best Ways To Save Money in College; College Student studying in library — Canva.com

Education is invaluable, but the price of college textbooks is not. Often surpassing the cost of tuition itself, these books can be made for about $10, yet are sold for hundreds.

Opting for used books or digital copies can significantly cut costs.

4. Greeting Cards: Words at a Price

Best Message To Write In Mothers Day Card; Mom and Daughter With Card — Image Credit: Yuganov Konstantin via Canva.com

Expressing love and care through a greeting card is a beautiful gesture, yet does it justify a 200% markup? Creating a personalized card adds a touch of sincerity and keeps money in your pocket.

5. Printer Cartridges: Inked Inflation

In an age where digital dominates, the cost of printer ink remains painfully high, often exceeding the price of the printers themselves. Considering alternatives like refillable cartridges can drastically reduce expenses.

6. Soda Cans: Carbonated Costliness

While not the most expensive on the shelf, the markup on soda is significant, considering its not much more than water and sugar. Quenching thirst with homemade drinks or water could offer healthier savings.

7. Mattresses: Overpriced Comfort

How To Save When Mattress Shopping; Woman Laying on Mattress — canva.com

A good night’s sleep is priceless, but the mattresses that provide it shouldn’t cost a fortune.

With production costs dramatically lower than retail prices, considering less known brands or sales can lead to substantial savings without sacrificing comfort.

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8. EpiPens: A Necessary Expense?

For those who need them, EpiPens are a lifeline. However, their high retail cost, compared to cheap they are to make, highlights a critical issue in pharmaceutical pricing. Advocating for more affordable options is crucial.

9. Smartphones: Tech at a Premium

A woman is holding a credit card on a smartphone.

The latest smartphones come with hefty price tags, often justified by cutting-edge technology. Yet, the actual cost to make it suggests prices are driven by brand allure more than anything else.

Opting for older models or less popular brands can keep you technologically equipped without financial strain.

10. Designer Jeans: Stylized Spending

piggy-bank-save money coins woman — image source: https://pixabay.com/photos/piggy-bank-saving-money-young-woman-850608/

The allure of designer jeans lies in their fit and style, but the cost to make them is significantly lower than retail prices, the luxury is questionable. Exploring outlets or lesser-known brands might yield equally flattering yet more affordable options.

11. Bath Bombs: Luxurious Lathers for Less

How to Make Bath Salts; Bath Salts with dried flowers

Bath bombs and bath salts turn a simple bath into a spa experience, but the ingredients are very inexpensive compared to their selling price. Homemade bath bombs or salts can be just as luxurious and far kinder to your wallet.

12. Sneakers: Stepping Over the Line

Add Alt Text; Person tying Brooks Runing Shoes

While sneakers are essential for many activities, the price tags on branded pairs are often inflated. Quality footwear doesn’t need to come with a high-end label.

13. Jewelry: High-Carat Costs

Jewelry enhances any outfit, but the high costs often reflect the branding rather than the craftsmanship. Opting for lesser-known jewelers or simpler pieces can provide the same enhancement at a fraction of the price.

14. Wedding Dresses: Marital Markup

Weddings are significant, but the expense of a wedding dress often carries an emotional markup. Considering custom-made or off-the-rack alternatives can reduce costs dramatically, allowing for budget allocations elsewhere in the celebration.

15. Premium Beauty Products: Branded Beauty

woman putting on makeup beauty tips — image source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/photo-of-woman-smiling-while-applying-mascara-3785760/

The beauty industry thrives on brand perception, often charging exorbitant prices for products that cost little to produce. Seeking out lesser-known brands or making homemade beauty products can offer substantial savings without compromising on quality.