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4 compact dishwashers under $500 you can plug & play and say goodbye to hand-washing dishes forever

Can’t wait to say goodbye to the hassle of hand-washing dishes?

I know how it feels when dishes pile up. And that’s why we have innovative and convenient dishwashers designed to simplify our lives, don’t we?

With their compact size, they fit well into any kitchen space. So if you can’t wait to rid of the tedious task of handwashing dishes, stay on this page.

Toshiba 5L Portable Dishwasher – White

Price: $399 (was $449)

This petite powerhouse packs a punch. Toshiba’s compact 5L dishwasher can fit comfortably on your kitchen counter and handle a full load of plates, cups, bowls, and utensils in just 29 minutes.

The see-through door lets you watch your dishes get squeaky clean while an interior light illuminates them during the cycle (if you need to, activate it). An easy-to-use control panel and screen guide you through each wash so you get spotless results every time.

When you need a quick clean for a handful of dishes after mealtime, this little workhorse accommodates up to 22 pieces of tableware at once. Plus, complimentary install options mean you will be enjoying hands-free cleaning in no time.

Midea White Compact Mini Dishwasher

Price: $429 (was $599)

Great for small spaces, this Midea dishwasher can easily fit on and under counters and into tight corners without sacrificing function.

Simple one-touch controls and clear program indicators make this machine easy to install and use. With a high-temperature intensive wash cycle and 30-minute quick wash setting, it can thoroughly clean up to 76 pieces of tableware when loaded properly.

The result? Sparkling dishes with minimal effort so you can take the time to do what matters more.

Electrolux Compact Dishwasher

Price: $499 (was $959)

Ideal for kitchenettes and small households, this invention from Electrolux offers versatile cycles to handle everything from lightly soiled dishes to heavily greased pots and pans.

Simply select the preprogrammed cycle that best suits your needs and let this hardworking helper go to work. It can supply either hot or cold water depending on your preference. The child lock setting helps keep little curious hands away from any detergent or hot water.

Though compact, Electrolux didn’t cut any corners on quality—but you still get a 2-year limited warranty for added peace of mind. So if you want the convenience of a dishwasher without sacrificing precious counter and cabinet space, this sleek and efficient machine is the one for you.

Elba Tabletop Dishwasher

Price: $499 (was $699)

Last but not least, we have this tabletop dishwasher from Elba. With LED touch controls and 8 programmed settings including a fruit wash cycle, you will be able to wash everything from wine glasses to baking pans and more.

The child lock keeps your kids safe while you run an express, extra drying, or extra cleaning cycle. The A+ energy efficiency rating means lower utility bills, while the free basic installation makes getting started simple.

Or if you prefer to DIY, simply connect the inlet and outlet hoses to the water supply and drain, then fill with your dirty dishes and let this compact machine do its thing.

These convenient appliances are designed to make your life easier and eliminate the tedious task of hand-washing dishes. With their compact size, they fit seamlessly into any kitchen space, making them apt for smaller homes or apartments. Experience the convenience and efficiency of these affordable dishwashers under $500 and reclaim your time so you can finally catch up on that newly released K-drama episode after work.

How to Save Money with Your Partner

After an amazing 12 years together, my husband and I finally tied the knot last year. Before embarking on this new chapter in our lives, we made sure we were financially prepared. Are you financially prepared?

When couples get married or move in together, they naturally take on shared responsibility for each other and their finances. Nonetheless, money-related misunderstandings can arise, which is why it’s essential to address them.

To help iron out these common money problems, let’s explore some practical financial tips for couples. Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all rule, so these tips are here to guide you and your partner in achieving your financial goals together.

BE OPEN

Right from the start of your relationship, it’s essential to be open and honest about where you both stand financially. If one of you is dealing with debt or has specific financial goals, discuss it openly. Take time to understand each other’s money habits, like spending tendencies and risk tolerance. You don’t have to have identical attitudes towards money, but finding a middle ground through compromise can be beneficial. Addressing these issues early on will prevent misunderstandings and arguments down the road.

CATEGORIZE YOUR EXPENSES

Not all expenses need to be shared. While bills, groceries, and travel costs are typically shared, individual expenses like personal shopping or sending money to family back home remain separate. By clearly identifying your expenses, you can streamline money management and reduce complexity.

PRIORITIZE AND SOLVE ISSUES

Discuss what financial goals are achievable for both of you in the long term and identify problems that can be resolved immediately. For example, if different earning capacities are a concern, consider starting a small business together or exploring additional income streams. Whenever possible, prioritize reducing debt, as this will save you money on interest in the long run.

MAKE A BUDGET PLAN

A budget plan can be a lifesaver when it comes to managing your expenses. Decide on a reasonable amount to spend on everyday items, take-outs, entertainment, and personal expenses. Also, include bills, debt payments, irregular expenses, and contributions to your emergency fund in the budget plan. This step is especially valuable for young couples looking to stay on top of their expenses.

TAKE ACTION

After discussing, analyzing, and crunching the numbers, it’s time to create an action plan. Determine who will handle the primary bookkeeping responsibilities to ensure that all bills are paid on time and accounts stay in good standing. However, it’s essential to keep the non-bookkeeping partner informed about your financial progress.

Once you have identified and addressed your pain points and financial objectives, develop a comprehensive action plan with a clear timeline. This plan may involve the following steps:

1. Establishing a joint savings account.
2. Exploring opportunities for additional sources of income.
3. Gradually settling smaller debts.
4. Conducting thorough research on investment options.
5. Making a structured plan for significant purchases.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Lastly, don’t forget to reward yourselves along the way! Even after being married, my husband and I still make time for regular dates and save up for enjoyable activities like travel and relaxing spa treatments.

Remember, open communication, understanding, and teamwork are the keys to successfully managing your finances as a couple. By following these financial tips, you and your partner can build a strong financial foundation together and enjoy a prosperous future.

Sources: 1 & 2

Practical ways to stop a spouse from spending impulsively while out shopping together

You and your wife/husband are going shopping again and you know what that means.

Another dent in the wallet and more clutter in the house. You’ve tried talking to them so many times already but the impulse buys just keep coming.

How?

Well, keep reading.

Make a shopping list and stick to it

First thing first, before going out, sit down together and write a list of only the things y’all really need.

Don’t put extras or ‘maybe can buy’ stuff. Focus only on necessities. Then when shopping, buy only what’s on the list and don’t deviate. No matter how tempting the sales or newly released items are, don’t sway.

If your spouse sees something extra they want, tell them “next time.” For now, just focus on needs. Next, check off items from the list as you buy. This gives a sense of progress to not make impulse buys.

Using a targeted list works. It provides focus and direction, limiting distractions. And by reviewing the list and receipt, you’re keeping each other accountable. If can master this, you sure can tame the spendthrift beau/beast and save more money.

Cash over credit

Another tip is to use cold hard cash instead of a card. Physical money means you and your spouse can see how much is left in their wallet. This makes your spouse think twice before buying.

Using cash is a good way to control impulse buys. Your spouse can see how much they spending, so he/she is more likely will buy only what they need. And when the money runs out, no choice but to stop shopping and balik kampung.

Time-out before check-out

Still, we know it’s easy to get caught up in the moment and still make impulse buys. So here’s another way to avoid overspending: take a quick “time-out” before heading to the checkout counter.

Maybe grab a cuppa? Suggest taking a tea/coffee or snack break before proceeding to pay. This pause gives you both a chance to reconsider your cart and think twice about any non-essential purchases.

Image Credits: nowboarding.changiairport.com

Ask your spouse:

“Do you need that? Let’s stick to what’s on the list.”
“We have a budget to keep. Why not wait till next month to get that, in case you change your mind?”

Often, the urge to buy something fades after a short break.

Leaving the store environment also helps provide perspective. The music, lighting, and product displays are all designed to encourage spending. Stepping away helps combat these effects so you can make better decisions.

If after your break, your spouse still feels strongly about a particular item, consider setting a 24-hour waiting period before buying. This extra time allows the initial excitement to fade so you and your partner can determine if it’s a well-thought-out purchase or just an impulse buy.

Pausing and reevaluating before paying is an easy way to curb overspending while shopping together. Staying within budget and making joint decisions will help ensure you both leave the store feeling good about your purchases.

Reward mindful spending

Last but not least, reward your spouse when they make mindful spending choices! Every time your spouse passes up a huge impulse buy, reemphasize how much both of you have saved. Give them praise and maybe a small treat.

For example, you can say:

“Well done, dear! I’m proud of you for not buying that new gadget even though you really wanted it. Milk tea? My treat!”
“Thank you for being so disciplined today. I appreciate you helping us save money. Want to go for a massage session this weekend?”

Over time, this positive reinforcement will strengthen their ability to curb impulse spending. Your spouse will start to associate mindful shopping choices with rewards and praise from you, giving them motivation to keep spending wisely.

So the next time you go shopping with your other half, try out some of these practical tips. They may complain a bit at first, but deep down they will appreciate you helping them save some dough. At the end of the day, successful relationships are built on understanding and supporting each other’s weaknesses. Help your spouse shop smarter, and the financial gods will help secure your future.

What should you do if your child keeps complaining about how little their pocket money is?

So your little one has been coming to disturb you, complaining about their allowance not being enough?

As a parent, it’s your responsibility to teach them money sense and the value of hard work. If not, as they mature into young adults, they might still expect everything to drop from the sky for them.

Nothing comes free in this world, you tell them. Talk to them and set clear rules on what they should spend on. Guide them on saving up for bigger items they want. This way they appreciate the value of money and don’t end up always complaining to mummy and daddy whenever they want something.

Why your child is dissatisfied

Before you point fingers and start yelling, take the time to understand your child’s needs.

Is it because their friends are getting more? Kids often compare with their peers, and if their friends get more pocket money, they will feel like they’re being shortchanged.

Or maybe their needs (and wants) are increasing? As children grow, their expenses increase too. The amount that used to be enough may no longer cut it.

Perhaps they don’t understand the value of money? Some kids don’t appreciate how much things cost in the real world. They just want more money to spend because that’s what their friends are doing, without realizing the effort required to earn it.

Setting appropriate expectations

Before saying a big fat “no” or caving into their demands for an increase, consider these factors:

How much is really enough?

Evaluate if the current amount is indeed too little to cover basic expenses. Think about your child’s age and what the money is meant for—food, entertainment, or saving up for bigger buys. As they get older, more pocket money is reasonable since their needs and wants will increase. But don’t feel obliged to match what their friends get, especially if you’re barely making ends meet.

Image Credits: tnp.straitstimes.com

Teach them financial responsibility

Pocket money is a chance for your child to learn money skills like budgeting and saving. If they blow through it all within the first few days of a school week, that’s a sign the amount may be too much for them to handle responsibly at this point. Help them create a budget and encourage saving for bigger purchases. These are lessons that will benefit them for life.

Set clear rules and expectations

Lay down some ground rules on what the money can be used for. Be very clear in communicating your expectations to avoid future complaints about it being too little. Let your child know that the amount will be reviewed periodically based on their needs (not wants) and responsible behavior. Establish that whinging will not get them an increase. With the right guidance, your child will appreciate the pocket money for what it is.

Encouraging earning extra money

Why not allow your kids to do some housework to earn extra money, like sweeping the floor, washing the car, or helping with groceries? Pay them a reasonable rate for their time and effort. This teaches them that money needs to be earned through work, not given freely.

If they’ve got the talent, they can also sell some homemade stuff to friends and neighbors, like baked goods or crafts. Supervise them to make sure the quality is okay and the price is fair. This shows them how a business works while building confidence. Let them keep part of the earnings and deposit the rest into their bank.

For the older ones, suggest to them part-time jobs. Things like retail work, tutoring, freelancing, etc. are good for teens. Make sure the job is suitable for their age and doesn’t affect their studies. Let them handle their pay to learn money management.

The more kids work for and earn their own money, the more they will appreciate its value. Be patient as it may take time for them to understand, just as it did for you while you were growing up.

When your kid keeps whining for more money, don’t just wave it off or give in to their demands. Show them some tough love instead. Explain your reasons why their allowance amount is what it is. Teach them financial responsibility and how to budget what they receive. Get them to earn some of it through chores or a part-time job. Also, set a good example through your own behavior. Kids often mimic what their parents do, so make sure you practice what you preach! Tough it out and your kids will thank you for these life lessons someday.

Is sharing your spouse-to-be’s salary with your parents a good idea?

Why so kancheong?

Getting engaged is stressful enough as it is, now you want to worry about whether to tell your parents how much your future spouse earns?

Take it easy, my friend. Because sharing such private details may do more harm than good. Your parents may start judging your fiance/fiancee based on their paycheck rather than their character.

Why invite such unnecessary drama and complications into your relationship and new chapter of life together? Keep money matters between the two of you and focus on planning your wedding and building a strong marriage foundation instead.

Downsides of sharing salary information

Creating unrealistic expectations

Your parents may start seeing dollar signs and build up unrealistic expectations of the kind of lifestyle you and your spouse can provide for them. This can breed resentment and conflict within the family if both of you “seem” to be able to afford it but choose not to do so.

Fostering dependency

Telling your parents the salary information may lead them to become financially dependent on you and your spouse over time (if both of you earn a lot). They may make poor financial decisions thinking you will bail them out, or keep coming to you whenever they need money instead of being more self-sufficient.

Causing tension

Sharing the details of your combined income with your parents can also create tension with other family members. Relatives may start comparing themselves and their own financial situations, or become jealous/boastful. This can damage relationships and cause rifts within the extended family.

Importance of privacy and consent

Image Credits: partnersunitedfinancial.com

Your spouse-to-be trusted you enough to share such personal information. If you reveal it to others without their permission, it can damage that trust and cause hurt feelings.

Even with good intentions, your parents may share that information with extended family and friends. Before you know it, people who have no business knowing those details now do.

Put yourself in your spouse-to-be’s shoes. How would you feel if they told their parents your salary without asking you first? Not so good, right?

Treat them how you would want to be treated. Ask for their consent before sharing sensitive details about their life, especially something as private as their pay. If they say no, accept their answer; their privacy is not worth risking your relationship over.

Relationships are built on trust, honesty, and communication. By respecting your spouse-to-be’s privacy and getting their ‘OK’ before sharing details with your parents, you show them they can confide in you going forward. They will appreciate your thoughtfulness, and it will help strengthen the foundation of trust in your relationship.

At the end of the day, you know your parents and situation best. If you foresee non-stop nagging about how you should spend the money or constant comparisons with your siblings’ partners, then maybe keep that detail between the two of you. The most important thing is you and your partner are on the same page. Whatever you decide, just do what feels right for your relationship.

Make a shopping list and stick to it

Cash over credit

Time-out before check-out

Reward mindful spending

Why your child is dissatisfied

Setting appropriate expectations

Encouraging earning extra money

Downsides of sharing salary information

Importance of privacy and consent

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