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Step 1
Scope out the right neighborhoods. Used clothing stores, some specifically for children's clothes only, exist in most towns across the U.S. Find one that you feel comfortable visiting. Think about the area; if you want to score Talbots Kids items or Hannah Anderson, as snooty as it sounds, go to the stores in the towns where people sport those kinds of threads. Busy moms in the area are probably selling their previously played-in gear in a place convenient to them.
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Step 2
Hit the yard-sale circuit. Again, location is key. Look for clothes brands you're familiar with, so you know how those clothes are sized and what's likely to fit your child. This also prevents your child from being traumatized by you throwing clothes over his head to "try on" in someone else's front yard.
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Step 3
Check the Internet; there are several websites that deal in used children's clothes. An auction site such as eBay can be useful if you want to purchase something specific or need formal wear for an event. Other sites offer clothing from newborn through kids sizes as well as accessories and toys.
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Step 4
Start a family hand-me-down chain. If you have siblings or extended family with children, start swapping clothes. Trickling items down through the family can be a great way to save money, reuse clothes and create a connection with relatives. This is especially helpful for winter jackets and other frequently outgrown items.
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Step 5
Set up a clothing-swap party with a group of parents in your area. Have an afternoon get-together with or without the kids. Each person brings over a bag of used clothes and dumps it out, then everyone scavenges through the piles. Anything left over at the end can be donated to the Salvation Army. This also works for grown-up clothes and is a great way to rejuvenate your wardrobe with some new-to-you pieces.
