BIFL is cheaper in the long run, but more costly up front, and we have a failing capitalist system where few people have much money, but also many people want "instant gratification" and are unwilling to do without and save until they can afford BIFL. The toaster in my kitchen is from 1952. It costs the average working person in the "United" States a weeks pay. Our vacuum in from 1970, and costs the average worker a month's pay. Hard to imagine the broke, and yet entitled, and impatient person today buying stuff like that.