Flipping tips
Check out thethriftshopper.com
This website is so awesome! It’s a national thrift store directory, so just type in your zip code, and it gives you a full list of thrift shops in your area. It also includes the stores’ hours, their distance from you, and reviews. So convenient! When I first searched my zip code, I was so surprised how many more thrift stores were near me than I realized.
Know the return policy
Just like any other store, thrift shops have return policies. Commonly, they accept returns within 7 days for store credit only. Check with your store to find out their specific policy. And make sure you like what you’re buying enough to not regret your purchase a few days later.
Know what you’re supporting
Many thrift shops support specific charities. If you have an organization you feel strongly about, check to see if they have any thrift stores or rummage sales. Even if you feel that some of their prices are higher than they should be, remember that it’s going to a good cause. Some thrift stores are privately owned and for profit. It’s just helpful to know the difference.
Be aware of what you shouldn’t buy thrift
Stuffed animals, helmets, kids’ car seats, or bathing suits and underwear are not ideal items to buy at a thrift store, for health and safety reasons. Just use your common sense and consider what items are better purchased new.
Wear clothes conducive to trying stuff on
Many thrift stores do have fitting rooms, but just in case you’re unsure, wear easily removable layers. That way, you can quickly try something on right over your clothes if necessary. If there are dressing rooms, you’ll want to be able to try things on more efficiently.
Know how the store is arranged
It’s also helpful to understand how your favorite thrift shop is organized. The Salvation Army nearest me has their clothing arranged by color. Goodwill organizes theirs by type – long sleeved shirts together, sweaters together, etc. All thrift stores seem to separate clothes into Mens’, Women’s, and Kids’ sections.
Check the books, furniture, and housewares sections
Furniture and housewares are some of the best items to buy at thrift stores. I’ve also had luck with books. I can’t imagine paying full retail price for a book, but thrift shops are a great place to look (especially on extra discount days!). I love looking through the cookbooks whilst thrift shopping. I recently found an awesome bread machine recipe book. There are usually plenty of modern, recently-published ones available, but the old ones are especially fun to flip through.
Have fun and be creative
If you’re on a budget or decorating a new home, don’t get discouraged if you can’t find complete matching sets. Your home will be more personalized and eclectic when you’ve hand-chosen a variety of interesting elements. The same goes for your wardrobe. Instead of showing up to work or a gathering in the same sweater as two other people, your outfits will be more interesting and individual. Plus, when someone compliments what you’re wearing, you can brag how little you paid for it.
Consider reselling thrifted items to make a little profit
I’ve known several people who do this. One lady shopped at thrift shops and garage sales, and resold her vintage and antique finds on Etsy. A couple other women resell brand name clothing they thrift on Poshmark or at local consignment shops.
Donate your own items regularly
Donating to your local thrift shops is important for several reasons. It contributes to the health of the thrift store – they survive on donated goods. It also feels good to give back to a place you appreciate. Making space in your home or closet is always crucial before you start bringing in more stuff. Cleaning out your closet will also give you a better idea of what you’re still in need of. Related:
- 10 Closet Organizing Tricks You Need To Know
- 5 Quick & Easy Tips to Declutter Your Clothes Fast
- 13 Decluttering Questions to Ask Yourself Instead of ‘Does This Spark Joy’