Secret Thrifting Finds That Will Save You Money

Additional Coverage:

13 Things You Should Absolutely Be Thrifting Instead of Buying New (financebuzz.com)

Thrift Store Treasures: 13 Finds That Won’t Break the Bank

Local thrifters have long debated the boundaries of secondhand shopping, with some items like appliances and upholstered furniture sparking lively discussions. But while you might want to skip the used undies (we’re all in agreement there!), there are plenty of fantastic finds that should absolutely be on your thrift list.

Next time you’re looking to save some cash, here are 13 items you should definitely consider buying secondhand:

1. Dishes

From everyday ceramics to elegant fine china, thrift stores are a treasure trove of dishes. You might even get lucky and unearth a complete matching set! Unique kitchenware is a fantastic way to add flair to your next holiday gathering or dinner party without a hefty price tag.

2. Art

Tired of staring at blank walls? Skip the generic prints from big box stores and head to your local thrift shop.

You could discover charming landscapes, striking abstracts, or even intriguing portraits. These one-of-a-kind pieces will infuse your home with character and style.

Plus, many come pre-framed, saving you even more!

3. Wood Furniture

One of the greatest joys of real wood furniture is its timeless versatility. Even if you stumble upon a dresser sporting a truly questionable paint job, a little stripping, sanding, and refinishing can bring it back to life. Just a heads-up: real wood is heavier than composite, so bring a buddy to help with the heavy lifting!

4. Chairs

While the upholstered furniture debate rages on, don’t let a worn fabric stop you from falling in love with a vintage chair. If the upholstery is tired or the seat is saggy, a reupholstering project can give it new life. Even with that extra cost, you’ll likely still spend less than buying new.

5. Home Decor

Got shelves begging for a little something-something? Ditch the pricey home decor stores and browse your local thrift shop. You’ll find similar styles with significantly smaller price tags, and you’ll avoid the dreaded “live, laugh, love” sign that everyone else has.

6. Mirrors

Mirrors are a fantastic way to make smaller rooms feel larger and brighter. But let’s be real, large or ornate mirrors can cost a pretty penny.

Thrift shops are a prime spot to score unique pieces for a fraction of the cost. Look for creative frames, vintage styles, and minimal damage to add personality to your space.

7. Picture Frames

Sure, you can grab cheap frames at a warehouse store, but for quality wood or metal frames, your local thrift shop is the place to be. A little cleaning (and maybe discarding a stranger’s old photos) can yield a fun and eclectic collection for your bookshelves, stairways, or walls.

8. Vintage Linens

Many thrifters adore hunting for vintage linens. Whether used as intended (think pillowcases, sheets, or tablecloths) or reimagined as fabric for other projects, these pieces offer endless possibilities. Just remember to check the fabric content and give them a good wash before use!

9. Lamps

Thrift stores are excellent sources for lamps. You can snag them for a steal and easily swap out shades to match your decor. Even if a lamp isn’t working, some savvy thrifters learn to rewire them at home, turning a non-functioning find into a perfectly good light source.

10. Books

While dedicated secondhand bookstores are great, don’t overlook your local thrift shop for a good read. Whether you’re searching for children’s books, cookbooks, or just aesthetically pleasing hardcovers for decor, you’re bound to find an eclectic mix.

11. Mugs

Can a person ever truly have too many mugs? Many consider them collectibles, and a thrift shop is prime hunting ground. Don’t let coffee stains deter you; a little abrasive cleaner, white vinegar, or baking soda, along with some elbow grease, can often make them good as new.

12. Coats

A high-quality coat, especially one from a different climate, might not have seen much use and can last for years. Check the racks, particularly out of season, for a hidden gem. Experienced thrifters often report finding fantastic coats for a steal.

13. Natural Fiber Sweaters

Many Redditors rave about finding wool or cashmere sweaters for pennies on the dollar at thrift stores. These luxurious natural fibers typically come with a hefty price tag when new, ranging from $50 to $500. Thrifting clothing isn’t for the faint of heart, though; it can take some patient sifting through piles of polyester to unearth a true treasure.

The Bottom Line

Almost anything can be sourced from a thrift store. While you might need to pick up a few skills for cleaning and repairing items, thrifting is a fantastic way to reuse, recycle, and keep more money in your wallet in our often “throwaway” society.