When it comes to thrifting, the possibilities are endless! Whether you’re on the hunt for some art to spice up your home or the perfect summer dress for that backyard barbecue, there’s always something to find. Department store shopping can get expensive and extremely time consuming, so thrifting is a great alternative. What better way to be budget-friendly as well as environmentally friendly than to stop by your local thrift store?
Upcycling
Upcycling is one of many ways to up your thrift game. Upcycling is essentially turning an item into something new. So, if you see something you don’t absolutely love, you can always create something fresh and new with it. I always suggest upcycling clothing, whether you turn an old pair of jeans into a unique dress or trendy fabric into a T-shirt. There are so many ways to completely change a piece.
Another great way you can upcycle your thrift store finds is with furniture. You can easily repaint and polish an old TV stand into a rustic end table that can revive your entire space. The great thing about upcycling is that everything you create is one of a kind!
DIYing
Let’s talk DIYing! There’s quite a large number of items you can DIY, including clothes, home décor, tables, and much more! Whether you’re seeking farmhouse or modern touches to add to your home, thrift stores has something to match everybody’s vibe. Looking for a stylish décor basket for your living room but don’t want to break the bank?
It’s possible! All you need is a trip to the thrift stores in Panama City Beach, FL to find the perfect basket; then, you can spray-paint it whatever color you wish. As you’ll quickly learn, spray paint will become your best friend when it comes to DIYing secondhand items.
Another great DIY option is transforming thrift store canisters into pottery or pots for plants. This hack is perfect for a summertime yard spruce-up. DIYing thrifted items is always affordable AND fun!
Repurposing
Did you know you can repurpose preloved clothing into baby clothes and even reusable bags? Who would’ve thought! Repurposing is simply reusing an item for a different purpose. There are endless possibilities when it comes to repurposing, especially because you can do it with just about anything!
If you have something lying around the house that you’re thinking of getting rid of, the majority of the time, you can find a new purpose for it. Some great ways to repurpose include turning picture frames into wall art or even turning an old cutting board into a decorative tray for your kitchen or living room.
Have an old ladder lying around? Turn it into wall décor to put frames, plants, or signs on. This trick is great for smaller spaces. All these items need are a bit of love and effort—they can make the biggest difference!
Students and teachers at the school explain why they enjoy thrifting
Shopping for pre-owned items at thrift stores has become more and more popular and has even established its own verb: thrifting. Students and teachers at the school have been following the trend as well by doing some “thrifting” of their own.
Freshman Maddy Williams enjoys thrifting for clothes because of the low prices.
“I like thrifting because I can find a lot of stuff that matches my style and it’s so much cheaper, [so] I can buy more clothes,” Williams said. “I get compliments on stuff that’s like $3 which I think is really cool.”
Senior Dominic Martinez also likes to thrift for the low prices and the diverse options the thrift stores offer. His style matches the options he finds at thrift stores.
“A benefit to thrifting is that it’s cheaper and I honestly feel like you can find a lot more of a variety of clothes at a thrift store because it’s literally everything,” Martinez said.
According to art teacher Erica Crist, thrifting is more time consuming than regular shopping. Shopping for something specific a thrift stores can be difficult because of this.
“[Thrifting] definitely takes more time,” Crist said. “Sometimes I’ll just go thrifting if I have a little bit of extra time and I just keep a general list of things that I’m looking for so I just scan the aisles really fast and look for them. If you want something really specific, then it’s a lot easier to just go to a regular store.”
Crist has noticed both the benefits and the disadvantages to thrifting.
“A benefit to thrifting is that you can save a lot of money,” Crist said. “I think it helps eliminate some of the waste in such a consumer-driven society. It’s crazy how much stuff you’ll find there. However, a disadvantage to thrifting is just that it takes a little bit more time.”
Williams has experienced these disadvantages as well. She stresses the importance of being patient while thrifting.
“You have to go through every item of clothing so you just have to be patient and wait until you find something you really like,” Williams said.
While shopping at thrift stores is enjoyable for Martinez, donating to them is just as enjoyable for him.
Crist’s experience thrifting has helped her gather helpful advice for someone looking to try thrifting from the thrift shop in Panama City Beach, FL for the first time.
From your great grandmother to your mother, many generations you know might have owned a piece of Pyrex. This colorful glass kitchenware has been a staple piece in American households for over a century. Many people love it for its durability, while others love it for its colorful designs.
There are Pyrex collectors who are in search of vintage and collectible Pyrex pieces.
THE HISTORY OF PYREX
Pyrex was first created in Corning, N.Y. in 1908. However, it did not look like the modern pieces look. Pyrex was first created at Corning Glass Works, where thermally resistant glasses were made for single lanterns. One employee named Jesse Littleton brought a sawed-off battery jar home to his wife, who used it to bake a cake.
Corning soon figured out their glass could benefit more than the industrial world but also kitchens. In 1915, the company started to sell Pyrex bakeware to many housewives. What made Pyrex so successful was that it was durable, resisted temperature changes and didn’t discolor.
WHY SHOULD YOU THRIFT PYREX?
Pyrex gained popularity because of its borosilicate glass that gave it durability and longevity. However, it then switched to using a soda-lime glass. This made the value of vintage Pyrex skyrocket. Now some Pyrex pieces are selling as much as $3,000.
When looking for Pyrex at the thrift shops in Destin, FL, try to find Pyrex from the 1915s to late 1970s. Look for pieces that are desirable and in great condition. Here is a list of Pyrex patterns that are worth some good money.
FIVE VALUABLE PYREX PATTERNS TO THRIFT
The Pink Daisy pattern
The Pink Daisy Pyrex pattern was produced from 1956 to 1963. This Pyrex pattern and the Snowflake was the first to be printed on a solid color. Its clear lids made it one of the best selling patterns. Now it is a favorite collectible piece for Pyrex junkies.
The Snowflake pattern
As stated above, the Snowflake Pyrex pattern is also one of the first Pyrex printed on a solid color. These pieces are turquoise colored and with snowflakes. This pattern is one of the longest-running patterns that ran from 1956 to 1967.
Rainbow stripes
The Rainbow Stripes Pyrex was manufactured from 1965 to 1967. There were four bowls, but only three were sold together. The set includes pink, sandalwood and blue. The yellow bowl was sold separately.
Gooseberry pattern
This Pyrex pattern was one of the first four printed patterns to be released on the opal Pyrex. It was manufactured from 1957 to 1966. This pattern came in different colors, including pink on white, white on pink, black on white and black on yellow.
Butterprint pattern
The Butterprint Pyrex was manufactured from 1957 to 1968. This pattern features an Amish couple, roosters and corn. It is considered one of the earliest prints of Pyrex. The distinctive design makes it one of the most recognizable Pyrex prints.
Thrifting has evolved so much throughout the years. What once was a budgeting necessity is now a Western past-time. Celebrities and IT-girls everywhere are flaunting their thrifted finds. It’s fun but, of course work. Hopefully you learn some things but most importantly have fun reading along, that’s always the goal! So let’s get started!
BYOB: Bring Your Own Bag, OK?
Reusable shopping bag made from an old t-shirt
The end of your shopping experience will actually be our first focus: the shopping bag. We are consumers and as consumers we produce an unbelievable amount of waste. If we, as a society can make small, intentional choices to help reduce that waste, why wouldn’t we?? So bring your reusable bag! This keeps your super eco-choice to shop used, recycled wares consistently earth-friendly.Tip: If you’re forgetful like me, I recommend buying several bags to leave in your car and at home. It’s also helps to make a habit of hanging them on your front door handle; they will be the last thing you see and the first thing you grab on your way out!
Don’t Dress Up
It’s not that you shouldn’t look cute when your thrifting, you do you! But, if you’re shopping for clothes you best be willing and ready to get in that fitting room! If you’re not trying things on you are taking on the totally unnecessary risk of buying something that is non-refundable and you may not like on. Leave that top that you love but that takes you 7 min to lace up at home. I guarantee you are NOT going to want to try things on if your having to flail around in a small closet to get your clothes back on every time you find a prospective pair of jeans. I suggest, wearing your easy, breezy elastic waist pants, a tee and slip-ons. Whatever you choose, just be sure it is easy to take on and off believe me, you won’t regret it.
Choose Your Music
I have become all too dependent on having my own music at any given time. I don’t know if this will be as much of a deal breaker as it is for me but, be sure to bring your headphones. The goal is to create your ideal space when your thrifting and Nickelback is NOT a part of my ideal space! Which is, unfortunately, what plays a lot at my local thrift store. Thrifting/life is better when you are enjoying and jamming to your favorite playlist.
Make a Game Plan
My very own Pinterest want list with an obvious emphasis on all things tied or knotted.
Ok, this may sound a little intense as a shopping tip but it is probably the most important piece of advice. So many people tell me they hate thrifting because: it’s time consuming, their efforts seem frivolous or it’s too overwhelming. I akin this to a lack of planning. As with any shopping if you are flying in there blind you are going to waste your time, feel overwhelmed and walk out with nothing or even worse, things you don’t even need or like. We’ve all experienced this; one word, Costco.
So how do we avoid this? Create a physical list, I don’t care whether it is on paper or on Pinterest. You need to know what exactly you are hoping to find. For example, if you are in dire need of new jeans and know that you like light washes best then you have just eliminated about 98% of the aisles to peruse. You’re going to save majorly on time and your own sanity. So, plan ahead and understand your needs.
Sign Up for Rewards
Ok, ok this isn’t a shocking or special tip but there are a lot of people that don’t realize that almost all thirfit store chains have a email list or rewards program customers can get coupons through. Thrift Town has an amazing emailing list that can send coupons for almost 50% off! Now, some of the smaller, local shops don’t have the ability or capacity to send out promotions like the chains do but most offer special deals throughout the week. Ask your friendly sales associate what specials they have through the week. One of my favorite local shops, St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Store, has 40% off of furniture every Friday. It’s totally worth asking.
Gender Bender
Vintage Men’s Wrangler’s available exclusively at No Longer Wander Shop
You’ve heard it on Queer Eye and you’ll hear it here. Don’t be afraid of your opposite sex’s section. I’ve found so many gems in the men’s section, it’s a treasure trove! I can’t tell you how many amazing jackets I found in the men’s section. Also, little known fact men’s jeans can look SUPER cute on your lady bod. Don’t believe me? Check out those lady curves in those men’s Wranglers! Don’t be scared, take the risk and try on those vintage men’s Levi’s and Wrangler’s. They are generally high-rise, real denim and have amazing color and wear. Which is the perfect segue to our next topic: The Vintage Section.
Vanity Sizing
If you’ve been in any number of thrift stores you are probably aware that most have a vintage section which doesn’t mean all of the vintage gems in the store can be found there. However, it does present a huge opportunity for some amazing pieces. Now, there is something very important to be said about sizing when shopping vintage and it requires a little history. So let’s go back about 60 years to 1958 when was when the first standard size chart for women arrived made set forth by the National Institute of Standards and Technology. Then, the sizes were event numbers from 8-38. Yeah… That’s waaay different than what we have now. The 1960’s size 8 is our modern day 00. As time went on, clothing companies got smart and thought, “I bet if we adjust our sizes so more ladies fit into a size 8, they’d feel more confident in our clothing and purchase it”, so that’s what they did. A 1970’s size 8 was our modern 2. By 1983 the standard was pretty much thrown out the window and by 1995 a size 8 was our modern 6. The good thing about this change? We have so many more body types and sizes represented today, which is awesome! The bad thing? Ummm… have you ever tried to shop for jeans as a modern day woman?!? You may be a 6 in Gap jeans but a 10 Calvin Kleins (don’t even get me started on odd number sizes..)
So what does this all mean to you? It means DO NOT be hard on yourself, upset or discouraged when you are trying on vintage dresses or pants that are much bigger than your average, modern size. In fact, the safe bet is to shoot for 4 numerical sizes larger for your best fit. That means if you generally wear a size 6 you should be looking for size 10.
Hopefully you learned a little something and feel prepared to go out to thrift stores in Panama City Beach, FL and find some amazing clothing, decor, furniture or whatever. Oh! And don’t forget your reusable bag! 🙂
The thrill of finding an amazing deal at a thrift store can be exhilarating—and it’s easy, if you shop like these thrift shopper pros. Here are a few secrets they’re letting out of the bag.
1.Location, location, location:
Which neighborhoods have the best thrift and consignment store finds? According to Bethany Beldner, a thrift store shopper, whose Instagram account is followed by more than 36,000 people, wealthy neighborhoods near her definitely have a lot to offer, but prices are higher. “Depending on which thrift store you go to though, the store may increase the prices of nice items. Some thrift store employees are very knowledge when it comes to brands,” says Beldner. Nikki Mateo of Los Angeles California, has a different thrifting experience in her area. “I’ve had better luck finding pieces in shoddy parts of a big city than in affluent suburbs. Probably because the former is more diverse, so you’ll get a lot of eclectic designer and costume pieces and unique furniture and decor over second-hand t-shirts from the Gap,” says Mateo.
2.Size matters:
Many thrift and consignment stores, including thrift shop in Panama City Beach, FL are well-established non-profit stores, . For-profit thrift stores usually have stricter guidelines for the merchandise they accept and the price tag is generally higher because the store and consignor need to be paid. “In my experience, privately-owned thrift stores tend to be smaller and don’t offer as great of a selection because they’re not getting as constant of donations,” says Beldner. Fabulous finds can still be had, especially on higher-end clothes, handbags, and accessories.
3.Best seasons to shop:
Back-to-school sales in July, white sales in January… there is always a better season to shop deals at retail stores. But what about thrift stores? “Thrift stores seem to be overflowing with donations, especially during the spring and summer months. Not only do garage sale leftovers usually get donated to Goodwill, but there is something about the warm weather that causes people to clean out their garages and declutter their homes. “During the winter months, I see less new inventory come in,” notes Beldner. And make sure you know these 40 shopping tricks that bargain shoppers swear by to save money during the holiday season!
4.Get the inside scoop:
Seasoned thrifters know the discounts are even better when you have the inside skinny. Sales and special promotions via store apps, newsletters, and text alerts give notice to deeper discounts. If you’re visiting a store for the first time, ask about the specials or look for signage. “Often thrift stores will have fliers posted in the store informing shoppers of upcoming sale days,” says Beldner. “Some stores will run sales daily and others are weekly.” For example, the Goodwill stores in the Chesapeake region in Maryland offer a 30 percent discount to all college students, teachers, and senior citizens every Wednesday. These are the other 13 things thrift stores and consignment shops won’t tell you!
5.Opposites attract:
Most women wouldn’t browse the men’s rack for clothes, but Maria TenHave-Chapman always looks it over when she hits up her local Goodwill or Salvation Army store. “Clearly, the fit is a little different so you’ll have to know what works for you, but looking through all departments is definitely worth it. I’ve found some really good finds in the men’s department,” says TenHave-Chapman.
6.Vintage goods:
If you like to rock an expensive look in your vintage threads, try antique stores. While not a typical thrift store, some carry vintage clothes alongside antiques. TenHave-Chapman loves to stroll the antique warehouse near her home for vintage clothes. “My best finds have been heavy winter coats from the 1950s with fur collars and silk linings.” If you’re looking for designer labels, but not sure the Chanel suit you just found is legit, try searching The Vintage Fashion Guild’s resource library for designer labels, furs, and fabrics.
There’s no secret that I love thrifting! But how did I get here? Why do I know so many tips to scoring the best deals at the thrift store? In this post, I’m going to share with you my best secrets and tips on how to thrift so YOU can shop like a pro!
Find thrift stores in different parts of town
Most areas of town will have thrift stores – either consignment shops, Goodwill, or independently run thrift stores. But not all thrift stores are created equal! That’s because they run on donations. The likelihood that I return to a particular thrift store depends on the quality of items inside.
To learn how to thrift well, you may need to venture out into different neighborhoods. Once you’ve visited and seen the quality of items, you can make the decision to return for regular shopping or not.
A great example is the Goodwill by our home vs. the Goodwill by my sister-in-law. The one in our neighborhood is small and has reduced hours. Goodwill by my sister-in-law is huge and has full operating hours. You would think, bigger is better! But that isn’t the case! The suburb that we live in is known for being “fancy” and this Goodwill is one of only a few donation spots in town. The Goodwill by my SIL is just one of many thrift stores in the area. To find different thrift stores, do a quick Google search of “thrift stores” and it will pull up a map. Make a list in your phone of different thrift stores you’ve been to and your thoughts or what you found.
Make friends with the employees (or at least be nice)
The employees of these stores don’t just work there, they thrift there too! And when you’re starting out learning how to thrift, these employees can hold a wealth of knowledge.
BE NICE! I’ve gotten discounts and items free for being friendly with the employees of my local thrift store. We chit chat about new fundraisers the store has, what’s happening locally, and most importantly I ask these specific questions:
When were new items put out last?
What time will new items be put on the sales floor next?
Are there any specials you’re running today?
Is there anything here you’re looking to get rid of fast? (that means extra savings if it’s something you need!!!)
Has anything interesting/special come in recently that I can take a look at?
Thrift with a list
What happens when you go to the grocery store without a list? You either over-buy or you forget items. It can be the same when you shop at a thrift store without a list.
Creating a list either on your phone or written out of items you’d like to purchase. This is just like a 72 Hour List.
Have a positive mindset
Not every time you set out thrifting will be a success. Sometimes you’ll score big and others you’ll leave empty handed. It’s a good idea to to have a positive mindset – you never know when the best treasures will be in the store!
Shop early in the day
Just like regular retail stores, thrift stores are stocked early in the day or the night before. So shopping early in the day (especially on “deal days”, more on that below) is KEY. When you’re one of the first shoppers in the door you get the first pick out of everything there! When you’re learning how to thrift well, it can be really exciting to see all the wonderful things in the store – not end of the day leftovers.
Find “deal days”
Since today, August 17th, is National Thrift Shop Day, loads of thrift stores will have amazing deals. My local Goodwill has 25% off your entire purchase today.
Here are some regular deals I’ve seen at thrift stores:
% off your entire purchase
% off a single item
% off a certain color tag or category
All clothing and shoes half off or more
Stuff a bag sales
So check your local stores to find the sale dates. Don’t be afraid to ask for a detailed sales calendar!
Thrift often
The magic that is the thrift store is that there are new things every day. While thrifting everyday probably isn’t a viable option (for your schedule or your wallet!), it is a good practice to thrift often. This is particularly helpful if you’re on the hunt for a very specific item or stocking up on items (like baby clothes).
Again, be nice to employees and get the scoop on when new items are put out!
Price compare
Not all prices at the thrift store are worth it. Let me explain.
Say you found a nice Cole Hand purse at Goodwill priced at $13. Retail price at the department store is around $75. This is a good deal if you need a new purse!
Now let’s look at something that isn’t a good deal. A t-shirt at Goodwill costs anywhere from $2.99-$12.99. Say it’s an Old Navy t-shirt for $4.99. Pretty ordinary shirt, nothing special. Retail at Old Navy that same shirt brand new is $5-$15. Unless there was an extra discount on clothing that day at Goodwill, I personally would purchase that new shirt from Old Navy.
Make sure you’re getting the value out of the price you pay for something secondhand. If you aren’t sure what something costs new, you can do a quick Google search of the brand name and short item description (ex. “Cole Hand black cross body bag”).
Look at everything
Don’t limit yourself to just one category of items inside a thrift store. Look at everything! Sometimes shoppers will put things back on the shelf wherever they feel like, or maybe an employee got lazy and just set an item down wherever.
I often find women’s athletic shirts mixed in with the men’s shirts and women’s tennis shoes with kids shoes. So look across all sections of the store. Leave no shelf or rack unseen! This includes the fitting room go-back rack. Someone already did the hard work of picking out the cute stuff – why not have a look!
Size is just a suggestion
When looking for clothing in particular, you’ll find that sizing varies from brand to brand. I could wear a size 8 at J Crew but a size 14 at Old Navy. So when picking out clothing to try on, take a look at other size sections. You can do a quick “hold up” test against your body to see if the width and length of the item looks right. It doesn’t hurt to try things on!
Look for things out of your comfort zone
Thrifting my clothing has really given me the ability to experiment with my style (which I still haven’t found if you’re wondering). Picking things that are out of my comfort zone, whether it is a cut, color, or pattern is easier at that thrift store than in regular retail.
You’re able to see so many styles of items at once that experimentation can be really easy. One of my favorite thrift store finds is a light weight, brightly colored plaid shirt. Would I have picked that up at TJ Maxx? Nope! But I sure do love it.
Don’t bite off more DIY than you can chew!
I’ve had my fair share of “of sure, this will be an easy DIY!” fails.
Be real with yourself. If something is just a little shabby, it’s pretty easy to clean or slap some paint on. But if it needs repair or serious customization, be honest with yourself. Will you actually get around to finishing that project, or will this be money wasted?
So there you have it – my secrets on how to thrift like a pro! Now go out and score some amazing deals on items you love at thrift store in Panama City Beach, FL.
A thrift store is different from a consignment or resale shop. It is run by a not-for-profit group instead of a merchant. The purpose of a thrift shop typically is to raise money for charities via the not-for-profit group.
Merchandise. The merchandise in a thrift shop is varied, changing frequently because this type of shop relies on donations most of the time. Some thrift shops may take items on consignment as well. A typical thrift shop will have a large section for clothing such as casual wear, business outfits and children’s clothing. Other sections may include household items, appliances, books, toys, furniture and baby items such as strollers. Prices are bargains, often marked at half or one-third less than retail stores.
Expectations. A thrift shop is not a high-end retailer with a large marketing and decorating budget. Expect your local thrift shop to offer gently used items in a no-frills shopping environment. Some thrift shops do have the space for dressing rooms, but many do not, so trying on clothes is not an option. Because the items are donated, selection will vary from day to day and you may not be able to find certain sizes.
Charities. The money you spend at a thrift stores in Panama City Beach, FL usually benefits a specific charity such as a church, school, community group or programs such as drug and alcohol rehabilitation. The proceeds from sales at Goodwill thrift shops help support “job training and placement programs for people with disabilities and other disadvantages.”
From thrift stores to vintage shops, to consignment or antique stores and other secondhand style retailers, buying used goods doesn’t always get the respect and recognition it deserves. We think that’s because shoppers don’t always have a clear understanding of how to get the most out of the experience. So we’re here to set the record straight and address these thrifting misconceptions. Hopefully these insights will inspire more people to try buying used – and nab some fun finds.
Thrifting misconception #1: Secondhand stores only have outdated items
This one tops the list because we hear it so often. While it’s true that secondhand stores do sometimes carry older items, we actually see that as one of thrift shopping’s benefits. You’re not going to find all the same items everyone else is buying. Instead, you’ll discover hard-to-find vintage items, one-of-a-kind pieces, and even furniture that you can take home and refinish to make your very own.
But we get it: Vintage isn’t for everyone. Secondhand stores know that, though. That’s why many of them broaden their appeal by carrying a mix of old and new.
A visit to local consignment shops or high-end reuse retailers will give you a front row seat to current fashions, name brands and more, at a discount. Remember, consignment shops make their money by offering what people want. Items that are outdated or not on trend likely aren’t even making their way to the floor. So not only will you find some of the latest fashions, accessories, and furniture in secondhand stores, but you’ll also be able to purchase them at well below retail prices.
Thrifting misconception #1: Secondhand stores only have outdated items
Thrifting misconception #2: It’s hard to find things in thrift or secondhand stores
We hear this one pretty frequently and are here to ease your concerns. Items in secondhand stores are often organized by category or, in the case of clothing, by type. All the men’s shirts will be in one section and women’s dresses in another. They usually take it a step further and organize clothing by color and size, too.
Home decor, books, music and the like will each have their own section, organized by different criteria. But part of the fun of thrift shopping is the thrill of the hunt – the pleasure of doing a little digging to find that must-have item. That said, secondhand stores want to make it easy for you to find what you’re looking for.
Thrifting misconception #2: It’s hard to find things in thrift or secondhand stores
Thrifting misconception #3: Buying used goods is only for people who can’t afford to buy new
As far as thrifting misconceptions go, this one is pretty far from the truth. Just because people buy used doesn’t mean they can’t afford to buy new. The love of a bargain, after all, has little to do with income. Plus, thrift stores are typically the only place to nab one-of-a-kind vintage items or unique retro pieces. People who have a taste for the unusual become thrift shop regulars, regardless of how fat their wallet is. That’s also true for people who want to cut waste, preserve natural resources and support local businesses. Many of them can afford to buy new, but they choose to reuse.
Is saving money one of the benefits of shopping secondhand? Absolutely! But that’s just being smart with your money. Part of the appeal of buying used is that in addition to getting a bargain, you’re realizing all sorts of other benefits. In fact, we’ve written an entire blog post on the benefits of buying used.
Thrifting misconception #3: Buying used goods is only for people who can’t afford to buy new
Thrifting misconception #4: It isn’t safe to buy used goods from a store
Actually, it’s perfectly safe to buy used goods from a secondhand store. Sure, we suggest looking over your prospective purchases before buying. Whether you’re shopping for secondhand clothes, furniture, tools, you name it, “Try before you buy” is a good motto to follow no matter where you shop. But there’s no need to be nervous. Unsafe, recalled or severely damaged items are typically removed by the stores’ staff and never even hit the sales floor.
If your concern is a matter of cleanliness (see our next thrifting misconception ), we do recommend washing clothing properly after you’ve brought it home. But we make that same recommendation for new clothing as well. For non-apparel items, we also suggest cleaning off before using. Things like toys and dishware can be washed in the sink or dishwasher. Furniture and other items can be wiped down or dusted off.
Thrifting misconception #4: It isn’t safe to buy used goods from a store
Thrifting misconception #5: Used clothing is dirty and secondhand stores smell
Sure, used clothing has been worn by someone else before. That’s why it’s called “used” clothing. But that doesn’t make it “dirty.” A simple run through the washing machine and these items will be good as new-to-you. Keep in mind, also, that clothes are washed before they’re donated, so any washing you do will likely be a bonus.
Remember, even new clothes have been touched and tried on by other people. You wash new clothes when you bring them home, right? If not, we recommend it, as this reduces the content of chemicals on the clothes, especially any residual chemicals left over from the manufacturing process.
Another misconception about secondhand stores is that they smell. That’s usually not true, however. Yes, thrift stores can sometimes have a more noticeable scent, but that’s primarily due to the fact that they’re smaller shops where many people’s home scents come together under one roof. If you walk into a big-box store, the size of the space allows various smells to dissipate – a fact that has nothing to do with cleanliness. In any case, once you get your purchased items home, whether you wash them, wear them, or just have them there, over time those goods will take on the smell of your home.
Don’t let these thrifting misconceptions stop you from finding some really great, high-quality, even name-brand pieces out there at a fraction of the cost of buying new.
Thrifting misconception #5: Used clothing is dirty and secondhand stores smell
These are just some of the common thrifting misconceptions that sometimes prevent people from having a fun experience and finding some really great clothes, books, furniture, home decor and more. If you’ve hesitated to visit the Thrift Shop Panama City Beach, FL because of the concerns raised above, we hope we’ve cleared up some of the confusion. That said, we can provide all the facts in the world, but our best suggestion is to find out for yourself by checking out your local consignment or thrift shop, antique or vintage store. Happy shopping!
Last week, we helped you clean out your closet. This week, we’re setting you down the path to building a more minimal wardrobe at home!
Why? Because this sort of decluttering and minimizing frees you from clutter stress, helps you combat decision fatigue, and it even helps you when trying to pack for your trips down the road!
If you’re tired of opening up your closet doors and feeling both overwhelmed by the amount of clothing and frustrated that you don’t have anything to wear – a minimal wardrobe system can help you take back control with included benefits you may not even be thinking about.
What You’ll Learn:
The undeniable benefits of having a minimal wardrobe at home – and how that can help you when you pack for travel.
My recommended tactic for starting the journey of building your minimal wardrobe – plus a fallback tactic if you don’t have the time to give right now.
Seven considerations that help you build the most productive and effective minimal wardrobe.
Recommendations for those who like to look fashionable but still want to downsize the wardrobe.
Take Action
How is YOUR wardrobe doing? Are you taking steps to build a more minimal and purposeful wardrobe at home? Visit us today and get good deals at a thrift shops in Panama City Beach, FL.
Are you planning to travel soon? Travel expenses may just keep piling up with all the things to buy on your checklist. Luckily, with the help of your local thrift shop, you do not have to keep spending more. You can always travel in comfort and style with high quality, thrifted items.
Here are some of the best travel items you can get for less.
Luggage Bags
A new luggage bag will cost you hundreds of dollars at department stores. Instead, you can opt to look for secondhand ones to avoid more expenses. A wide bag selection offers different types of luggage. For local road trips, you can search for duffel bags, backpacks, and carry-on bags. If you are traveling internationally, rolling suitcases are ideal.
Travel Outfits
Get picture-perfect outfits based on the weather of your destination. Whether you are going for a summer beach trip or winter skiing, lots of great thrift store finds have got your back. It is great to buy secondhand clothing, especially when you won’t be able to wear them often. Pick items that you do not usually have in your wardrobe yet. You can easily score winter coats, rain boots, or nice summer dresses.
Travel-Friendly Beauty Essentials
Save up space in your luggage by getting travel-sized beauty equipment. There is a lot of hair equipment at thrift stores, such as blow-dryers, curling irons, and hair straighteners. You can also find small makeup pouches and travel organizers to store your other beauty essentials.
Travel Books and Journals
Keep yourself entertained in between long hours of travel by looking for good reads. Thrifted books are also great if you have children coming along. You can also create a travel journal, where you can write about the details of your experiences. Vacations will allow you to enjoy your free time through these items.
Cameras or Polaroids
Any traveler’s list of must-have travel items will not be complete without a camera. Even though you can already take pictures from your phone, classic cameras offer a different type of documentation. You can also look for old film cameras or instant cameras and enjoy developing them after the trip.
Gear for Camping
Don’t forget to stock up on your camping gear and accessories. If your travel will require you to hike, it’s ideal getting thrifted sleeping bags. You can also buy camping chairs, tables, and camp stoves for some cooking.
Travel Accessories
Travel in style by getting some thrifted hats and sunglasses for your beach trips. You can also protect yourself from the sun with some visors or baseball caps. Extra sandals or other footwear are also great, especially if your trip requires a lot of walking.
Fitness Essentials
For health buffs, you can keep your fitness routine on track while traveling. Thrift stores offer numerous travel-friendly exercise items, such as jumping ropes, yoga mats, and resistance bands. Don’t miss out on thrifted athleisure items for your daily exercise.
Hygiene Essentials
Traveling will not be complete without some extra towels and comforters. If you are staying at a friend’s house or a budget-friendly hotel, bringing your own items will help. You can also keep your toiletries organized by getting small thrifted bags.
You can get almost everything you need for traveling in a one-stop thrift shop. It is all about learning how to travel cheap by allocating your budget to experiences instead of pricey items. This list of travel items is just a preview of several affordable items you can score. Visit us today and get good deals at Haven House, a thrift store in Destin, FL.
Steve Clark 