The best things in life may be free, but the second-best things are most certainly not. In fact, they can be pretty pricey. We'll sing Le Creuset's praises until the end of time (the cast-iron pots and pans are our editors' favorites), but we'll also be the first to admit that the brand is not exactly wallet-friendly. Alas, we're not deterred — and you shouldn't be, either. Here are five ways to save money while knocking a Le Creuset French oven off your wish list.
Take a road trip.
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There are Le Creuset Outlet Stores in 36 states, and they're a bargain-hunting Le Creuset-lover's dream come true. You might have to drive to get to one (many are located just outside of major cities), but once you arrive you'll find a good stock of cast-iron ovens and braisers on the cheap. If you're nervous that you're sacrificing quality for price, don't be: The discounted items are probably just in discontinued colorways or have minor defects — like a bubble in the enamel — that won't affect your cooking.
Visit discount stores.
TJ Maxx Maxxinistas have been holding out on us: They're not only finding deals on Tibi dresses and Kate Spade handbags; they're scooping up insanely inexpensive Le Creuset pieces. The same goes for similar shops, like Marshalls and Tuesday Morning, and discounts are made for the reasons execs slash prices at the outlets: The ovens are last year's colors or have teeny-tiny-you-need-glasses-to-notice imperfections. You won't always find an ample selection — sometimes you won't find any at all — but it's worth a trip to the kitchen section when you're at these stores.
Turn someone else's trash into your treasure.
Perennial Le Creuset collectors tout flea markets and garage sales as good spots to pick up no-longer-wanted pieces. Some superfans have even found totally usable French ovens in their neighbor's trash!
Call your grandma.
Yes, we're serious. If Grams is a hardcore cook, there's a decent chance she's got at least one Le Creuset piece collecting dust in her cupboard. The storied brand is famous for its lifetime warranty, which offers the original owner protection against defects (not including normal wear and tear).
Join a cashback website.
If you don't want to compromise on small defects or strange colors (that flame orange set isn't going to complete itself!), you might have to pay full price. Before you shop, sign up for a website that will put money back in your pocket just for buying something. Ebates offers 5 percent cash back on LeCreuset.com purchases, while ShopAtHome gives you up to 6 percent at Macy's and JC Penney.
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