Okay, when you hear rent-to-own (RTO), you probably think of dusty old furniture showrooms where everything smells like commitment issues and stale popcorn. But guess what? The rent-to-own game has evolved, and now you can rent-to-own all kinds of stuff—from bougie tech to backyard upgrades—and it actually makes sense in some cases.

Whether you’re in your “soft saving” era or just hate big upfront costs, here’s a list of random but genius things you can rent to own that might low-key improve your life.

1. Hot tubs—because you deserve a little chaos and a lot of bubbles

Yep, you can rent to own a hot tub. Like, an actual, steaming, Instagrammable spa situation. No pool? No problem. Companies will deliver it, set it up, and let you slowly pay it off while you soak your stress away.

Brigit tip: great for pretending you’re at a ski lodge even if you’re just in the suburbs with a La Croix.

2. E-bikes and scooters—because gas prices are a scam

E-bikes are expensive, but rent-to-own gives you that sweet two-wheeled freedom without the financial jump scare. Brands like Rad Power and Ridepanda have monthly plans that eventually lead to full ownership, so you’re not just throwing money into the wind.

Great if you’re flirting with the idea of being “that person” who commutes by bike but still likes a little pedal assist. (We all like that assist.)

3. Gaming consoles—for the gamers with commitment issues (or just broke besties)

Don’t want to drop $500 on a PlayStation 5 or Xbox upfront? You can rent-to-own it and level up slowly. Some places even bundle in games, extra controllers, or warranties.

Ideal for gamers, casual button mashers, or that one friend who keeps “borrowing” your console and never giving it back.

4. Tools and equipment—because DIY dreams don’t need to be expensive

Planning a home project but don’t want to blow your budget on a tool you’ll only use once every lunar eclipse? Rent-to-own setups for power washers, chainsaws, drills, and even full toolkits are out there.

Now you can build that bookshelf, fix that fence, or pretend you’re in a Home Depot ad without going broke.

5. Appliances—because your fridge shouldn’t sound like a dying lawnmower

Big appliances like washers, dryers, and fridges? Rent-to-own is a solid move if you’re not ready to fork over thousands right away. Especially useful if you’re setting up a new place or replacing a disaster of a hand-me-down.

It’s like a grown-up starter pack, but with monthly payments and fewer regrets.

6. Luxury handbags—for when your tote bag era isn’t cutting it

Yes, you can rent-to-own designer bags. Chanel. Louis Vuitton. Gucci. Real ones. Some services start you off as a renter, and if you’re obsessed, you can buy it gradually. No judgment if you just want to live your best “I’m just grabbing a matcha” life in style. (But do think hard about this one—luxury items aren’t need-to-haves, so make sure you can afford the cost of renting to own things like that.)

High fashion, low pressure.

7. Mattresses—because sleep is expensive now??

Gone are the days of buying a mattress like a normal human. Now you get to test them, rent them, and eventually own them without putting $1,200 on a card and pretending you’ll pay it off in 3 months.

Sleep Number, Purple, Casper—all the fancy foam you want, without the buyer’s remorse.

RTO: not just for couches anymore

Rent-to-own has quietly glowed up. It’s not just about paying off a recliner for 36 months anymore. Whether you’re moving, upgrading, testing out a hobby, or just financially allergic to commitment, it’s worth looking into. You know your situation best, so you can decide what’s a good idea to rent-to-own and what isn’t.

Is it always the cheapest long-term option? No. But does it let you try-before-you-marry with some big purchases? Absolutely.

So go ahead. Live your best semi-committed life.

Brigit is not affiliated or partnered with any brands and/or companies mentioned in the blog.