How to Start Thrifting

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Thrifting and shopping second hand is basically all I want to do. Somehow, sifting through piles of other people's castoffs is just so fun for me! I understand, though, that it can be overwhelming, especially if you're new to it or don't have any idea of what to be looking for. I thrift shop for just about everything, including almost all of our home decor. I think home items and clothing are probably what most people think about when they think thrifting. That's what is popular to show on social media and for good reason...there are lots of goodies available! That in itself is a lot to take on, though...especially for a newbie.

I want to offer another option though, if you want to start thrifting, but aren't sure where to begin. One of the unsung heroes of the thrift store are all of the utilitarian, everyday household items. Depending on the thrift store, there might be lots of options and more than you can even imagine. No matter where you are shopping, there will no doubt be functional items for your everyday life that you can buy second hand! 

From kitchen utensils to sports and workout equipment, or craft supplies to pet care...there is likely always something at the thrift store that will be helpful to your household and will save you money. One thing I do want to mention about this is that, there are a couple of reasons that people shop second hand.

Often people thrift shop to save money. Obviously, it (should be) a better deal to buy items at the thrift store. Over the last several years, thrift store prices have been steadily climbing. To be safe, when I'm looking at anything at the thrift store, I do try to do an online search to see what it would cost to buy the item new. So, if you're strictly looking to save money, be sure to do some research to make sure you're not overspending on something...just because it's at the thrift store.

The other reason that people shop second hand is to help combat overproduction and overconsumption. For this reason, those folks might not be as concerned with how much things cost, but instead are looking for quality, longevity, and necessity in the items. Even if they might be paying the same at the thrift store as buying it new, they're happy to do so, to help break the cycle of consumerism.

Whatever your reason for wanting to start thrifting, I know you will find something that will be useful to you, without the pressure of having to find stylish home decor or clothing items. I hope that once you get used to shopping second hand, you'll start to look for great pieces for your home and wardrobe, but for now, here are a few things I've found at the thrift store lately that are strictly utilitarian.

Fitness and Sports Equipment

We have a home gym, so I'm constantly looking for new things that I can add. I like to pick them up at the thrift store to save money, but also, if I decide I don't care for certain things, I don't mind redonating because I didn't spend much on them to begin with! 

Small Electronics

It's actually surprising to me what can be found at the thrift store in this category. Basically...you can find just about anything that plugs in! On a recent trip, I spotted a small air purifier, several hair styling products, and a pressure cooker that would have all been great options to pick up. I often see toaster ovens, popcorn makers, crock pots, essential oil diffusers, alarm clocks, coffee makers...the list goes on. Most thrift stores have an outlet where you can test the items. Be sure to check to see if they allow returns if the item doesn't work...a lot of times they do!

1. Kitchen Items. I listed several kitchen electronics above, but the sky's the limit on what you can find for you kitchen at the thrift store. Lately, I've been on the hunt for stone bakeware and have been so successful! I always look at utensils, dishes, special serving items. Charcuterie boards have been all the rage the last few years and cutting boards are also plentiful at the thrift store! These are hard for me to leave behind...

Craft Supplies + Gift Wrap

I'm pretty sure there could never be another craft item made and there would still be enough. I try to always look through this section, especially if there's a specific item I'm looking for. I need to do a little better of a job, though, because I still find myself buying some things at regular price. I had to buy a greeting card the other day and could have cried...they're so expensive!! The craft section is also a reminder that it's ok to clear out your own stash now and again. You will not have a hard time finding something new when you need it! ‍

Pet Supplies

Just recently, I was able to pick up a brand new box of litter box liner bags for only $2! They regularly sell for over $10. I try to just take a peek at this section because there is almost always something that could be helpful. You can often find food and water bowls, leashes and collars, aquarium setups, and pet shavings.

Light Bulbs and Candles. So many people have made the switch to LED lightbulbs, that incandescent bulbs are plentiful at the thrift. Which is handy, since those are what I prefer! I recently found a few bulbs for my candle warmer, which can be kind of pricey. I'm now on the lookout for them every time I stop. While I don't burn regular candles anymore, I still grab pretty tapers as decor whenever I find them. There are almost always battery-operated candles at the thrift store too. They are great to pick up for shelf and outdoor decor!

There are so many more useful things that I could list for you to look for at the thrift store, but I don't want to overwhelm you. My true hope is that you'll be inspired by the items I've shared and be so excited for the possibilities that you head right out to the thrift store to see what you can find!

*Want to learn even more about thrifting and shopping secondhand? My THRIFTING GUIDE is a great next step!*

If you've been inspired and find something great, I would love to take a peek! Share to your stories and tag me on INSTAGRAM so I can see!