Can you really save by spending?

In "10 ways to save money by spending more," CNBC.com writer Katie Little writes that certain purchases -- things like nice clothes, household help, vacations and power tools -- not only improve quality of life but could "even save you some cash."

Sometimes that makes sense. For example, in "Save by spending $5 more per week" I suggested using sales and coupons to build a stockpile of foods, toiletries and household items. That costs a little bit upfront but later on you'll save: fewer trips to the store, less temptation to eat out, no late-night runs to the mini-mart because you ran out of toilet paper.

As a rule, though? Telling someone to spend to save is like turning a middle-schooler loose at Best Buy with a credit card and a "Buy only what you need, OK?" When you see something you want, it can quickly morph into a need.

A certain amount of outlay is necessary in business or in your personal life. But the "spend to save" notion makes it a little too easy to justify getting anything you want. All you have to do is convince yourself that you're saving money by getting it.

A few object lessons
I've heard people refer to "investing" in clothing. Naturally you need to look presentable at work, and, if you pick the right items, they'll last for years. But clothes aren't an investment. They don't pay dividends or grow in value. You can't cash them in upon retirement (although they might bring a few bucks at a consignment shop).

What clothing does is cover you decently and convey an image ("business professional," "fashionista"). That's all. Calling it an investment makes it easy to convince yourself to buy more shares. (Post continues after video.)
One couple I know spent to save in the kitchen. They bought expensive pots and pans thinking it would make them want to cook at home. Had they been able to admit that they just don't want to cook, they'd have saved hundreds of dollars. For the amount of KP duty they put in, yard-sale or thrift-store pans would have done just fine.

What's the true cost?
Obviously it's your money and your call. But think critically about the cash you're delegating to recreational shopping, frequent meals out, unnecessary hardware or a dog-walking service.

What could that money do for you someplace else? Invested for the short or long term, say, or used to make extra payments on student loans or consumer debt?

Quality of life is important. But there are ways to keep the cost of that quality down: online discount codes, daily deal sites, thrift shops, consignment stores, cash-back shopping, grocery coupons and clothing swaps.

A little common sense helps, too. Yes, it's exciting to have your first house. But be honest with yourself: No one but you cares if a shelf isn't smothered in knickknacks, and the amount of tools you "need" tends to correspond to the square footage of pegboard you put up in your new garage.

More on MSN Money:

• When frugality goes too far
• Why you should personalize your budget
• Sacrifice, or self-determination?
• Become your own handyman
• Frugality: The right life choice