My B&M Addiction Just Got Worse - This £10 Garden Slide Has Me Questioning Everything

By HOAR Team 13 June, 2025 5 mins read 93 Views

Okay, so I'm standing in B&M yesterday (don't judge me, it was supposed to be a quick toilet roll run) and I see this absolute unit of a garden slide that's making parents lose their minds.

Ten pounds. TEN. POUNDS.

With this heatwave hitting us harder than my credit card bill last month, and the weather looking like it's actually decided to stick around for once, every parent in a five-mile radius is probably having the same thought: how do I keep these kids entertained without selling a kidney?

Audio Playback

The Great B&M Treasure Hunt Begins

Some legend in the B&M Scanner And Other Bargains Facebook group (yeah, I'm in there - 328,000 of us bargain hunters can't be wrong) posted about finding this Gigantic Garden Slide yesterday. Originally £50, marked down to £30, but when they scanned it at the till? £10.

I actually texted my sister immediately: "Drop everything. Get to B&M. NOW."

Her response: "What's happened? Are you okay?"

Me: "Six-foot inflatable slide. Ten quid. Battery pump included."

Her: "Already in the car."

Why This Actually Makes Sense (Sort Of)

Look, taking the kids to one of those fancy water parks costs about £40 per child these days. Plus parking. Plus the overpriced snacks because little Timmy will literally die if he doesn't get a £5 ice cream.

This thing promises "slip'n, slide'n fun" for kids over three, and honestly? My neighbor's eight-year-old was eyeing it through the fence like it was made of gold.

The catch? It's last year's stock, so your local B&M might not have it. Classic.

The Facebook Frenzy Is Real

The comments section under that post went absolutely mental. People tagging friends left and right, sharing locations where they'd spotted it, the usual chaos that happens when B&M drops a proper bargain.

One person pointed out it's old stock (thanks, Captain Obvious), but honestly, do kids care if their slide is from 2023 or 2024? No. They care if it's big and slippery and makes them feel like they're at a theme park.

But Wait, There's More Bargain Madness

Because apparently B&M is trying to bankrupt us all this summer, they've also slashed prices on other garden stuff.

Palm House Leaf Stem Metal Wall Art for £1.50 (down from £3). Perfect for hiding that section of fence that looks like it survived a small explosion.

Some luxury gazebo thing for £100 instead of £125. And they had kids' toys for a quid each last week, which caused actual stampedes in some stores.

I feel like B&M is playing some kind of psychological game with us. They know we can't resist a good bargain, especially when it involves keeping the kids happy during school holidays.

The Reality Check Nobody Asked For

Here's teh thing though - prices vary between stores because retailers are sneaky like that. What costs £10 in Manchester might be £15 in Brighton.

Pro tip: use those price comparison sites like Trolley or Price Runner before you get too excited. I learned this the hard way after driving 45 minutes for a "bargain" that was actually cheaper at my local Tesco.

But honestly? If you spot this slide for anywhere near £10, just buy it. Your kids will worship you, your garden will become the neighborhood hangout spot, and you'll feel smug about your bargain-hunting skills all summer long.

Now excuse me while I go inflate a giant slide in my back garden like a responsible adult.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I budget my money effectively?

To budget effectively, start by tracking your income and expenses to understand your spending habits. Set realistic financial goals, categorize your expenses, and allocate funds accordingly. Regularly review and adjust your budget to ensure it reflects your current financial situation and objectives.

What are the risks associated with investing in the stock market?

Investing in the stock market involves several risks, including market volatility, economic downturns, and company-specific factors that can lead to losses. Investors may also face liquidity risk, where they cannot sell an investment quickly without incurring a loss. Diversification and thorough research can help mitigate these risks.

What are the benefits of having an emergency fund?

An emergency fund provides financial security by offering a safety net for unexpected expenses, such as medical emergencies or job loss. It helps prevent debt accumulation, reduces stress, and allows for better financial planning, ensuring that individuals can navigate unforeseen circumstances without significant hardship.

What are credit scores and why are they important?

Credit scores are numerical representations of an individual's creditworthiness, calculated based on credit history, payment behavior, and debt levels. They are important because they impact the ability to obtain loans, credit cards, and favorable interest rates, affecting overall financial health.

What are the main functions of money?

The primary functions of money are as a medium of exchange, facilitating trade; a unit of account, which provides a standard measure of value; a store of value, allowing individuals to save and transfer purchasing power over time; and a standard of deferred payment, enabling credit transactions.

How can I start saving for retirement?

To start saving for retirement, begin by establishing clear retirement goals and determining how much you need to save. Contribute to employer-sponsored retirement plans, such as a 401(k), and consider opening an Individual Retirement Account (IRA). Regular contributions and taking advantage of compounding interest can significantly boost your retirement savings over time.

What is a budget deficit?

A budget deficit occurs when a government's expenditures exceed its revenues over a specific period, usually a fiscal year. This can lead to increased borrowing and national debt if not addressed through spending cuts or revenue increases.

Statistics

According to the Federal Reserve, approximately 39% of Americans do not have enough savings to cover a $400 emergency expense.
As of 2021, the median household income in the U.S. was approximately $67,521, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
In 2020, the average retirement savings for Americans aged 60 to 69 was approximately $195,000, according to Fidelity.
A survey by the American Psychological Association found that 72% of Americans reported feeling stressed about money at some point in the past month.
Research by the National Bureau of Economic Research found that individuals who receive financial education are 25% more likely to save than those who do not.
The average cost of raising a child in the U.S. is estimated to be around $233,610, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average American spends about $1,500 per year on coffee.
As of 2021, the average student loan debt for recent graduates was approximately $30,000, according to the Federal Reserve.

External Links

How To

How To Plan for Major Expenses

Planning for major expenses requires careful thought and budgeting. Start by identifying upcoming significant costs, such as home repairs, medical expenses, or a new vehicle. Research the estimated costs associated with these expenses, and create a timeline for when the payments will be due. Develop a savings plan by determining how much you need to set aside each month to meet your goal by the target date. Consider using a high-yield savings account to earn interest on your savings. Regularly review and adjust your plan as needed, ensuring you stay on track to meet your financial obligations without incurring debt.

Did you miss our previous article...
https://hellofaread.com/money/were-all-getting-hammered-reeves-just-painted-herself-into-the-worlds-most-expensive-corner