How to Thrift Store Shop -- Is it a Deal or No Deal

Savings abound at thrift stores, but only if the deals are really a deal! Here are some tips to make the most of the experience.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• An open mind
• Clothing sizes for yourself and family members
• "I Want" list
• Portable, small measuring tape
• Cash or personal check (with ID)

1. Know your prices and know your brand names!
   
   It is no deal to pay $4 for a gently used shirt that can be purchased NEW for the same amount on the clearance rack!
   
   Familiarize yourself with the brands carried by local stores, such as Walmart and Target.

2. Locate the thrift stores in the area. Call them to find out what days they offer 2-for-1, bag sales, or other special prices.
   
   Try to schedule errands in that area during those price reductions.
   
   Write down a list of body measurements and sizes for clothing for each family member you will be shopping for.
   
   Also make a list of things that would be a useful or pleasurable addition for the home. Examples would be photo frames, cookware, bedding, etc.

3. What is your mission? Are you browsing to get an idea of what the store offers or are you looking for something specific?
   
   If looking for clothing, always shop by colors and patterns that appeal. Most thrift store clothing is sorted only by sex, so there will be a multitude of sizes on the same rack.
   
   Check the tag. Most can recognize upscale clothing by the name. $3.00 for a Casual Corner blouse, for example, is a deal!
   
   Always check zippers and buttons to ensure they work. Hold the garment near natural light to discern any stains or rips.
   
   Zippers are difficult and time-consuming to replace, and repairs of any nature are almost always noticeable. Pass if the item isn't in near perfect condition.
   
   If a button is missing, check near the bottom of a shirt to see if the manufacturer included any extras. That's an easy fix!
   
   Try on any garment that appeals to you, regardless of how cheap it is!
   
   It's no deal if it doesn't fit and it lives in your closet until you donate it back!

4. Bring the kids! Prior to going back-to-school shopping, many parents donate the gently used clothing that no longer fits. (I outfitted my daughter for the entire school year for about $60, including jeans, shirts, sweaters, skirts, and dresses!)
   
   Their donation is your gain!
   
   Make sure it fits well, has no tears or rips, and that the child will wear it. Any item that receives a indifferent reception will probably not be worn. Leave it on the rack!

5. Consult the "I Want" list. Peruse the aisles for those items, but don't expect to hit the jackpot every time.

6. Thrift stores typically offer great deals on the following items:
   
   Books (Hard cover and paperback), Holiday Decor, Sewing & Crafts (Patterns, material, crochet & knitting yarn, needles, etc.),Children's and Baby Clothes, Purses and Wallets, Belts, Jeans (Especially name brands, such as Levi, Carhartt, etc.) and Children's Games & Toys.
   
   The best times to shop are:
   
   1/2 Price Days (Usually afternoon and evening, one day per week), Bag Sales, End of Season (Shop for winter coats in the Spring, for example)
   and Back-to-School sales. Shop in the early morning, for the best selection.

7. New items, with tags, can round out gift giving and have a positive impact on the budget and the environment.
   
   Stash the deals until the holidays roll around; complete the gift list from a "regular" store.

Tips & Warnings

• Most stores are manned by volunteers, they are not paid employees. Do not treat them as "staff", as they are giving countless hours of their time to help you save money!
• Many thrift stores only accept cash or personal check with ID. Don't expect to be able to pay for your purchase with credit or debit cards.
• Each clothing manufacturer sizes pieces differently. Garments may also resize due to cleaning methods. Having exact measurements ensures that the waist is the right size, the inseam the correct length.
• Helpful measurements include waist, inseam, shoulder width, arm length, neck circumference, foot length and width.
• Take the next step and de-clutter the home by making a donation. Keep a list, get a receipt, and don't forget to take the tax deduction!
• Great deals can be "flipped" by offering for sale on Craigslist.com or eBay.com. This is a great opportunity to make a little extra money for your efforts.
• Always thoroughly clean items purchased. One has no idea how long the item was in storage prior to being placed on the sales floor.
• It is okay to ask if a specific item is "in the back", but don't expect any miracles!
• Thrift stores are not the place to haggle! They often fund community programs that otherwise would not be in place.
• Gently used doesn't mean it WORKS! Ask a volunteer for batteries, or an electrical outlet, to test items.
• Always check the contents of games or puzzles. They are often donated after pieces are lost.
• Damage to the feet can be caused by wearing used shoes. Only purchase footwear that has obviously only been worn once or twice, or is brand new.
• The thrift store is NOT the place to purchase items that may compromise your health. Used underwear is definitely NO DEAL! Be sure that items for children and babies have not been recalled due to safety issues.
• Most thrift stores will NOT accept returns of any kind. Spend money wisely, and buyer beware!

Resources

• Government List of Recalled Products

[gingiq]

on 11/16/2009 good tips

[sarie1320]

on 10/8/2008 great article. i have to admit.. im a jackpot thrift shopper!! why pay 60$ for a pair of jeans when i can get them for around 6$? thanks for the article.