The Best Tips For Thrift Shopping

Sometimes I feel so burnt out about going to the mall, or visiting the same stores over and over again because things are similar or based on current trends. That’s where thrift stores come in, offering just a unique vibe you can’t find in other places. Over a few years, I’ve picked up a few tips for thrift shopping.

It’s not just about scoring a great deal; it’s about the joy of finding something with a lot of character. It’s like a treasure hunt. But the treasure could be anything from a cool frame or mirror to a funky lamp that adds a pop of personality to your space.

Where to go

When I talk about thrifting I’m not only talking about certain stores like Goodwill. Consider going to flea markets, garage sales, and estate sales too. It’s a great way to find vintage pieces with a lot of character and to repurpose things for a change.

I remember my husband and I were looking for things to do when we were living in northern Virginia. Then I saw a video about estate sales one weekend, and we decided to start going to them. This was also at the time when we were doing some furniture flipping, so it all worked together. 

Estate sales are great for finding new interesting things, or for getting nice furniture you like. There are all sorts of good finds; my husband got a nice grill that was almost brand new. He got it for half the price it goes for brand new. He’s been using it for years, and he’s going to keep using it for years to come. (He also got a great deal on the Lord of the Rings Extended Trilogy and still talks about it). We’ve seen cars, furniture, tools, art, instruments, and an abundance of other things. We were able to find bookshelves, tables, chairs, and other furniture at a really good price to either flip or keep. 

Also we use the estate sales app, and look at the pictures posted for each sale, and determine if we want to go depending on how the pictures look. We also see if there are a few of them bunched up anywhere so we can hit them in quick succession. They usually run for 2-3 days, giving bigger discounts as the days go on, sometimes up to or over 50%! But don’t wait too long, or all the good stuff will already be sold out!

Nowadays we don’t go to them looking for anything specific, we just go to look at stuff and hang out. Sometimes we’ll find stuff, and other times it’s just a good excuse to have a lunch date somewhere. 

And let’s talk about the prices. Thrift stores are a budget shopper’s dream. And in my case, it was at a certain point the only kind of shop I was able to afford to buy big items like furniture. You can find designer labels, high-quality furniture, and all sorts of goodies for a fraction of the price. Plus, you’ll feel good knowing you’re giving pre-loved items a second chance instead of contributing to fast fashion and a lot of waste.

So, what kind of stuff can you find?

Honestly, the sky’s the limit. From vintage tees and denim to old-school vinyl records and quirky home decor. In short, thrift shopping is not just about saving money; it’s about finding unique pieces, expressing your style, and making a positive impact on the planet. Additionally, many thrift stores are affiliated with charitable causes, with proceeds often supporting community programs and initiatives, adding a philanthropic aspect to the shopping experience.

However, thrift shopping does have its drawbacks. These include a limited selection compared to traditional retail stores, potential quality concerns with some items showing signs of wear or damage (that’s when you flip them), and the time-consuming nature of sifting through racks and shelves. 

What things are best to buy?

When it comes to thrift shopping, the best items to look for are often unique, timeless, and of good quality. Here’s a list of some of the best items to thrift:

Clothing:

Vintage clothing pieces like denim jackets, band t-shirts, dresses, and coats can often be found at thrift stores. (I usually skip these and go straight to the decor and furniture section) or when I’m looking for clothes I usually go to this one.

Home Decor:

From furniture to decorative items, thrift stores offer a wide range of home decor options. Look for unique pieces like vintage lamps, picture frames, artwork, decorative pottery, or floral china (my absolute favorite) to add character to your space.

Books:

Thrift stores often have a large selection of books at bargain prices. Whether you’re into classic literature, cookbooks, or nonfiction, you’re likely to find something that interests you.

Kitchenware:

Not regular plates but more like decoration items. From vintage Pyrex dishes or unique serving platters to brass items or ceramics, that you can put on shelves. Thrift stores are a great place to find kitchenware that adds personality to your home.

What things are best to avoid?

In my opinion, while thrift stores can be a place for unique finds, some items are generally best to avoid purchasing second-hand due to safety, hygiene, or effectiveness.

Mattresses and Pillows:

These items can harbor bed bugs (one of Andrews’s brothers picked up an upholstery sofa from the side curb and he still regrets it), dust mites, and other allergens. It’s difficult to sanitize them completely, so it’s generally safer to buy these items new.

Undergarments and Swimwear:

It’s not my cup of tea and I think for hygiene reasons, it’s best to avoid purchasing items like underwear, bras, and swimsuits.

Electronics with Unknown Histories:

While thrift electronics can be tempting, it’s essential to consider that they may have hidden defects or may not function properly. Always test electronics thoroughly before purchasing.

Cookware with Non-Stick Coatings or Plastic Items:

Non-stick cookware can deteriorate over time and release harmful chemicals when heated. It’s safer to purchase these items new or opt for alternatives like stainless steel or cast iron. When thrift shopping, use your judgment and prioritize safety and hygiene. If in doubt about the cleanliness or safety of an item, it’s best to skip and avoid purchasing it secondhand.

Ultimately, remember to keep an open mind and be patient when thrift shopping. The best items are often hidden among the racks and shelves, waiting to be discovered by those willing to take the time to look. Happy thrifting!