How to Save Money Shopping at Thrift Shops

Second-Hand Stores Thriving in Bad Economy

Oct 6, 2008 Venice Kichura

Times may be tough, but second-hand stores (such as consignment and thrift shops) are doing well, according to a recent CNN.com article.

Second-Hand Doesn’t Mean Inferior

Just because an item is for sale at a second-hand/consignment store or thrift shop doesn’t mean it’s of less quality. Thrift stores usually have brand name clothing, barely used or not used at all. “Often our shoppers can find unused clothing with the original price tag still stapled on them,” says Mary K, a volunteer in a North Georgia thrift shop. “What’s more, some household items coming into thrift stores are brand new, with their original boxes unopened.”

Tips for Thrift Store Shopping

• Make out a list - Before heading out to a local thrift store, make a list of everything you need, rather than buying compulsively. Realize that it’s possible to overspend at a thrift store even if the merchandise is cheap.

• Study the colored tags – Most thrift stores color code their items according to what’s on sale. For example, note when you first enter the store what color is discounted. On the other hand, if you can’t find that information, ask the store manager about any sales.

• Study the store – Some thrift stores have areas where everything is half-off. Be sure and ask if there’s a section that offers discounts.

• Shop on special days – For example, Wednesday is senior day at a thrift Store in Rockville, Connecticut, when senior citizens get a discount. Some stores set aside “Ladies Day”, etc.

• Brand name items – Although they want a discount, some shoppers still want to wear brand name clothing. Ask the store manager if there’s a certain section of the store that features brand name items.

• Check clothing thoroughly before buying – Make sure there are no stains, rips, tears, missing buttons, and jammed zippers before buying. Besides putting back any clothing that should be trashed, report your findings to the store manager as she (or) he will probably want to toss out items that aren’t acceptable.

• Inspect items for filth - Thoroughly inspect items such as purses to make sure there isn’t anything harmful inside of them. In addition, after bringing them home, clean all purchases and sanitize hands.

• Check out electronic and battery-operated items – Ask the store manager to plug in an electronic device, making sure it works. As for battery-operated items, chances are there aren’t batteries included, so it’s a good idea to carry some batteries into the store to test them before buying.

Used Sporting Equipment and Bookstores

At sporting stores, such as Play It Again Sports, shoppers not only can you save by buying sports equipment for themselves, as well as their children’s sporting activities, but they can also sell their old sports items.

Call used bookstores to see if they carry any books needed for required school reading.

Shopping for Second-Hand Items Online

Besides second-hand stores, budget-minded shoppers can also buy used items online.

• Ebay - Before buying on eBay (or other online auctions) read carefully what’s included and email the for any questions that aren’t obvious on the ad. Also, make sure postage and handling charges are clear. Check out the reputation of the seller, noting any problems.

• Craig’s List – Don’t be afraid to negotiate, as well as study other tips before buying.

Finally, experiment with a variety of second-hand stores, consignment shops and online buying stores. When consumers take advantage of second-hand stores, not only do they save money, but they can also make some extra cash by selling their own used items.