How To Thrift (Like a Pro!)

I learned what I know about thrifting from my mom.

Growing up, I remember her seasonally combing through her favorite thrift stores around where we lived. There was that specific Goodwill, the ministry thrift, and the one with the older ladies who love staging the products in fun ways. She would pick up unique household decor, helpful kitchen tools, and even clothing and furniture at a fraction of normal retail cost. Plus, there’s the fun of the hunt!

That’s the kind of shopping I actually like. I know I will find something unique and not spend a ton of money doing it. It takes a bit of a trained eye to see treasures amidst what can seem like trash, but it is oh-so-much fun once you get the hang of it!

Have you noticed a growing trend in thrifting? Or maybe it’s always been there, but social media makes it feel like a newer thing. Either way, is it something you’ve tried?

I thrift because I think it’s fun, I love finding treasures that are a bit warmer and more unique than new items from box stores, I save money, and I love knowing that I’m contributing to sustainability instead of disposable consumerism.

Ready? Here are my best tips!

Gather and Study Inspiration

Inspiration is everything when you’re thrifting. When you know which styles you love - for clothes, home decor, home tools, furniture - you’ll be able to spot the gold in the rubble much more quickly and confidently. Whether you like to scroll through Pinterest or through your favorite magazine, take notice of themes that are in the images that inspire you most. Is it particular material (like woven/jute or buffalo check), particular decor items (like baskets or glass jars), or certain clothing items (like blazers or fair isle sweaters)? See if you can find a theme, and keep that on your radar while you’re perusing the piles of stuff.

When I see home images I love on Pinterest, I will put particular items I love based on those images on my thrift-list (see below). For example, I recently scored some 1/2 gallon glass mason jars and filled them with nuts and other pantry items to add warmth and texture to my exposed shelves. If I’m inspired but just can’t find what I need, I’ll move on to Amazon or another local store. Recently, I had been looking for those chic netted grocery bags that keep popping up on my Instagram and Pinterest. I just couldn’t find anything like them at my thrift stores, so I got these, instead.

Ask trusted thrifty friends which local stores to try

Do you know someone who is a thrifty queen? Ask them which shops they enjoy frequenting! They’ll be happy to give you a list, but don’t be offended if they seem hesitant to give up their best secret spots! : ) It takes time and consistent hunting to find a really great thrift shop. If you see a thrift shop in your neighborhood or as you’re out and about, check it out. Take five minutes and see if there are any goodies that stick out, or an abundance of a certain category of items like records or kids toys. Keep that up, and you’ll have a trusty thrift-shop list of your own (and maybe even a secret spot that never lets you down!)

Pop in regularly

Different stores are well-stocked in different categories. I have a certain store I always score great clothes in, and another one I go to for furniture and books. The only way you’ll figure that out is to regularly visit those stores. “Regular” might mean weekly, every few weeks, once a month, or once every two months - whatever you can swing will do just fine!

The point is, when you’re somewhat regular, you’ll be able to notice what comes in and out, what the store normally has plenty of, and an idea of price-points. That way, when you’re looking for a specific item, you’ll know which store to hit up first. Or, when you see an item you may not be looking for but that you know is rare, a great price, and something you’d use and love, you’ll be ready to snatch it up!

Keep a thrift list handy

If I find that I need something in my home or wardrobe (or even if a friend’s birthday is coming up), I’ll make note to look for something that will fit the bill next time I’m thrifting. It is really easy to get overwhelmed by the rows and piles of stuff, but if you go in knowing what you’re looking for (and you already know which stores are most likely to have what you need) you can skim quickly. I keep a running list on my phone, and I try to stay patient.

DOn’t thrift when you’re hungry or tired

You won’t be into it, I promise. If you’re trying too hard, or if your mind is on getting food or getting home, you likely won’t find what you need. I have a way better ability to scout out treasures when I don’t feel pressured, and I’m well fed (or caffeinated!) Sometimes I’ll make a little self-care date of it. I’ll hit up a favorite coffee shop, grab breakfast and a coffee, and then peruse a couple of nearby thrifts before heading off to the rest of my day.

What do you think? Are you a newbie thrifter or a naysayer? If so, did these tips help or inspire?

are you a veteran thrifty queen? If so, what tips would you add?

Happy treasure-hunting, and let me know what you find!

Sam