Buying used is often an easy way to find inexpensive, high-quality, one-of-a-kind gems. The thrill of the hunt for treasures as such is just hard to beat. But, whatever the reason you’re thrift shopping, you know too well that the result is the same: you discover treasures that someone else considered trash. Well, for those who haven’t tried it yet, you are missing out on the fun and satisfaction that thrift shopping has to offer.
The Benefits of Thrift Shopping You Probably Never Expected
- It saves you money.
You may remember stopping by furniture thrift stores to find something to outfit your first apartment or checking around for designer products at a fraction of the price. Thrift shops are a treasure trove of quality brands that you can purchase at a fraction of the price. Many recall one of their greatest thrift shopping experiences was finding designer dresses that would regularly sell for tens of dollars for just $5 or even less. Thrift shopping is particularly practical when you have kids. Why would you spend $25 on a new shirt that they would quickly outgrow if you can buy it for less?
- It sets you out for a treasure hunt.
Experienced thrift shoppers know that when you dig through the racks, you may find quality items at rock-bottom prices—some true treasures. A little friendly competition with other thrifters just adds to the fun and excitement.
- It will give you a constantly updated selection.
It’s like fast-fashion sans the mainstream fashion and mass-produced items that everyone’s wearing. With thrift stores, there’s a much more diverse assortment of clothing that’s updated after one week or less.
- It inspires some great upcycling projects.
What’s great about thrifted items—whether clothes or furniture items—is that they are often cheap and needing some refurbishing, too. It means you have a good reason to update them and in the worst case that you do more damage than good, at least you didn’t spend that much.
- It makes you a little more eco-friendly.
Thrift shopping prevents usable items from going directly into landfills. It’s a great way to recycle and as mentioned earlier, to find gems that someone else considered trash. But, from a different point-of-view, thrift stores also allow you to donate clothes you no longer wear, allowing you to reduce waste in the process.
- It allows you to support charitable causes.
Although not all thrift stores are associated with non-profit organizations, some are, and you can support them by either donating items or even better, shopping there, too.
There are as many reasons to shop in thrift stores since you get to buy awesome finds at a lower price. It allows you to furnish your home without falling into debt, explore different styles from vintage to branded finds, and discover unique gifts for people who appreciate quirky stuff.
Sure, there is fun in going to the mall, but if the high prices turn you off, you should consider doing the bulk of your shopping at thrift stores.
What are the things that you should not buy in a thrift store?
As a final tip, though, keep in mind that not all items in a thrift store are a great buy. There are just items that can be unsanitary, more expensive, and even dangerous when you buy them pre-owned.
These include car seats, which have to be replaced after an accident or six years after the manufacturing date. How can you be sure that its previous owner or the thrift store has followed that advice? Among other things, below are the items you shouldn’t buy in a thrift store.
- Appliances – They may have potential faulty wirings or burnt motors.
- Stuffed animals – They may be infested with bed bugs or fleas.
- Furniture items for your baby. Unless you’re quite sure they’re sturdy, it’s better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your kids’ bedrooms or nurseries. The same goes for cribs, playpens, etc.
- Mattresses – The same reason you shouldn’t buy stuffed animals: bed bugs. Plus, mattresses should be replaced at least every 15 years. This applies to pillows, beddings, and rugs, too.
- Anything that smells – It could be mold, pet stains, dust, fleas, or every bit of them. Whatever that is, you wouldn’t want to know it after you purchase them, would you?
Takeaway
Probably the best thing about thrift stores is that you can seek out bargains, pick quite a few collectibles and sell them at a higher profit. Selling collectibles is a profitable venture, that’s why you have to keep an eye out for valuable items.
May these tips convince you to give thrift shopping a try. After all, you never know what you would find in a thrift store, so you might as well see it for yourself.
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