Tag: secondhand

It’s never too early to start decorating for a new season — especially for one as short as spooky season! It can take some time to get your home looking like the perfect balance of scary and stylish, so it’s no surprise that, for many, decorating has already begun.

Fall colors and Halloween-themed pumpkins come out of storage, fall-colored book stacks begin to appear on tables and shelves alongside gourds and witchy signage. It’s the unofficial start of the season, kicking off a celebration of all things Halloween — from candy to and mystical creatures.

Home décor has become more important in the last few months, as people have been forced to spend more and more time indoors. Even if this year’s Halloween looks a bit different — socially distanced gatherings and taking safety precautions while trick-or-treating instead of what may have normally been an indoor party — creating a fun spooky Halloween ambiance can have its own benefits for you and your family.

According to a study in the Journal of Environmental Psychology, putting up decorations early for a favorite holiday can make people happier. By decorating early, you begin to believe the holiday isn’t that far away, and you can start a countdown to your favorite holiday!

Plus, if you want to go all-out on spooky Halloween decorations this year, you won’t need to break the bank. By shopping for decorations or DIY craft materials second hand at thrift shops in Destin FL, you’ll find what you need for a mere fraction of the price you’d pay at another retailer. And, at the same time, you’ll be paying tribute to the environment by diverting these gently used goods from a landfill, instead putting them in the spotlight on your walls and mantle.

Below are a few Halloween décor ideas created by shoppers that will be sure to delight any ghost or ghoul this year.

Witchy Welcome Wall

There’s nothing like a nice reminder of the Halloween season every time you walk through your front door. These thrifted entryway decorations are perfect for entering any witch or wizard into your home and will keep your family in the holiday spirit. You can repurpose an umbrella holder to hold witches’ brooms, both items easily findable at your local store.

Creepy Corners

It can be a scary surprise to walk into the kitchen for a midnight snack and find a gleeful skeleton in the corner! Set up a few of these startling decorations throughout the house to add some hocus pocus to every room.

Custom Cemetery DIY

I LOVED finding the creativity this shopper had. She found the church on the left for a $3 steal at her local store and, with a little bit of black paint, transformed it into the creepy mausoleum that’s now part of the DIY cemetery stationed behind her kitchen sink. A spooktacularly wallet-friendly idea for an eye-catching and elaborate decoration!

On the East Coast, the nights have started getting colder, the air becoming crisper as the color of the foliage begins to change and flutter to the ground. It’s clear that Autumn is coming — the passing of Labor Day putting an end to frequent weekend trips to the beach and the wearing of white pants, and I want my home to be prepared as sweater season starts to kick in!

Now that I’m spending most of my time in my apartment, it’s important to me to have cozy nooks where I can snuggle under a blanket and read, write, or simply relax with a mug of herbal tea. As I now work from home and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future, I’ve been trying to tackle the difficult task of keeping my work and “fun” lives separate, working in a different corner than I relax in.

This article shares more tips on creating a productive workspace with items that won’t break the bank, but will help you create this separation as well!

As you begin to welcome fall into your home by thinking about cozy décor, consider shopping for seasonal decorations, books and furniture at your local store. You’ll find show-stopping fall pieces for a bargain, and you might come home with inspiration for a custom DIY project or two as well!

1. Cozy Corners

For me, the only comfort that colder weather brings is knowing I’ll have the perfect excuse to snuggle up on a chair or couch with a soft blanket and a stack of books I’ve been meaning to read all summer. As we spend more and more time at home, it’s important to create these areas where you can simply relax — and books, a cozy blanket and a gorgeous thrifted chair can do just the trick.

2. Faux Foliage

A sophisticated fall-scaped mantlepiece is a versatile way to let a little fall into your living room all the way through the Thanksgiving holiday. By layering faux fall foliage, gourds and carefully selected vases and planters, you can create a fall landscape that brings the best of the outdoors inside your home.

3. Pumpkins & Pictures

Especially in recent years, wooden signs with phrases like “Gather” and “Come Together” have become extremely popular in home décor, especially when it comes to fall! These signs are great and — much to my boyfriend’s chagrin — our apartment has a few of these strategically placed all over as well.

But it’s important to remember that among the signage and pumpkins, you can never go wrong with a few family and friends photos. During a time where we may not be able to see our loved ones as often as we’d like, pictures can be a way to bring them into our homes, making them feel all the more safe and cozy because of it.

4. Fall Furniture DIY

Furniture shoppers have such a fantastically creative eye for before-and-after furniture projects that I constantly find myself in awe. This antique buffet table revamp is so stunning. 

Feeling inspired? Head to your local thrift shop in Destin, FL to pick up a few items to bring the essence of fall into your home.

I think we can all agree that 2020 has been a difficult year — especially for those of us who are not good with change… and a lot of it… all at once! This has been a year full of unprecedented circumstances, we’ve all probably spent a lot more time at home than ever before, and we’ve all probably had to deal with loss in some way as well.

As we approach the end of 2020 and, specifically, the holidays, we can start to think about what really matters most to us in the world. For me, it’s safely spending time with my family and friends — whether its on a brisk outdoor walk or a Zoom chat — and using some of my newfound free time to do what I can to make the holidays extra special for them this year. If there’s one thing we all could use, it’s some good old-fashioned holiday cheer!

That being said, it’s important for us to think about how and where we’re shopping for special gifts this holiday season. In addition to being the year of the pandemic, 2020 has been a pivotal year when it comes to environmental issues, and it has been a difficult year for many when it comes to job stability and having the ability to save some extra cash. If you’re nodding your head as you read this, then shopping second-hand for holiday gifts just might be the right solution for you.

When it comes to the environment, fashion waste stemming from fast-fashion brands that capitalize on short-lived trends is a major issue that is causing people to pivot to a more responsible retail era. In a 2019 survey conducted by Accenture, insights found that gifting second-hand — and especially vintage styles — is becoming a fashionable trend, and almost 50 percent of survey participants responded that they would consider gifting second-hand. And closer to 60 percent of people would welcome gifts of this type themselves!

Gifting second-hand items bought from the thrift stores in Destin, FL is so much better for the environment than shopping at traditional retail stores because it redirects gently used clothes and other goods from the landfill to your closet, where they can be put to great use.

Why give to a thrift store? 

If someone has leftovers from their garage sale, donating to a thrift store could be the best next choice. These funded programs typically serve people in local communities who have barriers to employment.

That would be people who have a disability, reentering into the community after being released from jail or prison, or for someone who has a lack of education and job training. In addition, someone finding their first job could find a position at a thrift store in Destin, FL. By donating to a thrift store, you’re helping your own community.

They’re able to divert things that typically are found in a land-zone, and reuse it. The organization is friendly to the environment by recycling used clothes and items in that way.

When is the best time to donate to a thrift store? 

“Anytime is great to donate to thrift stores. A lot of people normally donate more in the spring after getting into spring cleaning. For thrift shops, the spring time is a heavy donation time. However, there’s really no bad time to donate.

What would be the best items to donate to a thrift store?

The value of the item is in the eye of the beholder. Thrift store receives a lot of clothes and apparel, but the industries also has plenty of furniture. The stores get things that treasure hunters and customers are looking for, and they’re always looking for unique things. 

How does a thrift store benefit the community?

Serving quality goods for people is an important role for thrift stores and to be able to provide a variety of items such as cooking ware, electronics, clothes and apparel at a good price range.

The donated clothing items are almost always brand new, and shopping at a thrift store is good for customers who are managing a budget and for college students who are moving into their first apartment or dorm rooms searching for cheap furniture.

What is Fast Fashion?

Fast Fashion is inexpensive clothing that is produced to mass-market retailers in response to the latest trends. Retailers like Primark, H&M, ASOS and Boohoo.com churn out millions of tonnes of clothing each year to keep up with the ‘need to be new’.

This has been growing rapidly over the last 10-20 years with globalization being at the forefront and a drive from the Millennial and Gen-Z generations obsessed with having the newest trends before they’ve even hit the store.

Fast Fashion allows us to accommodate the world’s passion for fashion at an affordable price but does come at a price.

The Pros to Fast Fashion?

With living in such a fast-paced world, Fast Fashion allows for more affordable clothing. The latest trends are sold to the masses, people get what they want and not have to wait around for anything as there are now so many retailers and brands to choose from, either in-store and online, with eCommerce becoming the biggest industry on the planet as the human race moves deeper into the digital era.

With clothing becoming so cheap people can get a new outfit each weekend to go out in, sometimes even cheaper than a round of drink at your local pub! This has moved people into the habit of buying something and only wearing it once, a throwaway cutler. It’s great for someone who doesn’t have the largest income (students/the youth) as they can still enjoy the thrill of spending and getting the new things when they want, and not have to spend an arm and a leg on it, allowing them to save in other areas of life.

The Cons of the Industry

With the colossal demand for these clothes and the rate at which people want them, the increased waste from this throwaway culture, we as a species have created, means that 100 billion garments each year go to landfill in countries a lot worse off than the people buying the clothes.

Places like the Far East and Southern Asia, where huge sweats shops that have been known to exploit workers, make these clothes are on barely a liveable wage in awful conditions to get the product quickly the consumer on a mass scale. More than 1,100 people died in the garment factory collapse in Bangladesh in 2014 forcing western retail to be more transparent about their supply chain.

In early 2018 designer brand Burberry admitted to burning over £30 million worth of stock instead of selling it off cheaply to protect the band’s identity. This caused controversy in the fashion industry and it really made people stop and think as to what we can do to make this more environmentally friendly and stop this throwaway culture. This is the reason thrift shops in Destin, FL are gaining popularity.

What you can do

You can help combat this issue as well and it’s not even that difficult. The main and probably most beneficial thing you can do is to stop buying so much new clothing. 

Wear more than once, when you wear something don’t feel that because people have seen you wear it once you can’t wear it again. Most clothing nowadays is such high quality it will last you for a good few years if you look after it.

The beauty with clothing is its versatility! Due to the advancement in technologies, the quality of even a cheap top can out way some of the more high-end designer brands. Once you’ve worn it and are bored with it, sell it on. Use the Apps like Depop and eBay to get some money back and allow someone else to enjoy what you once had, the recycling process can continue with you.

Fast Fashion is a great thing for the masses but its dark underbelly means that for us the cons outweigh the pros. Next time you go to get a new outfit for the weekend, think, do I really need that? Think of the bigger picture when it comes to fashion and not what you just look like!

1. Ask about the store’s sourcing 

The first step to finding a beautiful and safe vintage clothing item is vetting the retailer or business providing secondhand pieces. Most vintage boutiques or independent vendors have a thorough vetting process of their own, though it never hurts to politely inquire about it when perusing a selection of pre-loved beauties.

2. Inspect the garment carefully for damage and stains 

When searching for new-to-you wares at thrift stores in Destin, FL first look for any obvious blemishes like large stains, holes, or overly-stretched fabric. While these are not sure signs of an irrevocably damaged garment, they can help lead you in the right direction. Next, employ your sense of smell.

You don’t have to get too up close and personal to understand if a clothing item is emitting an unpleasant odor, and it will immediately tell you if that piece has been properly washed—or has a more permanent smell.

Ultimately, the vetting process is up to you and your best judgment. These items are likely to be imperfect, though that isn’t always a sign of poor care on the previous owner’s part, it’s just indicative of a garment which has been put to good use.

3. How to remove stains on secondhand clothing 

If you’ve brought home a piece which needs a little work, have no fear because the internet truly does have all the answers. From ink to sweat stains there is a myriad of ways to treat your vintage wares without having to introduce chemical cleaners into the mix.

Baking soda, like vinegar, is a household product which can work wonders on stains in and outside of your wardrobe. Hydrogen peroxide is a low-impact liquid which can wipe away blemishes. Even lemons can be used to naturally rid your clothing of unsightly spots!

Just be sure to do a quick internet search for your specific stain removal needs before running your clothing under hot water or blotting—in some cases, like oil or protein-based stains, it makes things worse. If you’re looking for a one-stop-shop stain remover, brands like Buncha Farms sell natural stain removal sticks.

4. How to machine wash pieces carefully 

So, you’ve found a gorgeous item worth caring for and you’re ready to bring it home! No matter where you buy your vintage or secondhand items from, it’s always smart to clean them before your first wearing. If the piece has a visible care label follow those instructions carefully, making sure not to ruin your new find.

To ensure absolute obliteration of harmful germs, you’ll want to add some vinegar to your washing process, along with detergent.

5. Hand wash if care instructions are missing 

In some cases, the care label will be nowhere to be found (as they weren’t introduced until the early 1970s) or illegible (washing can fade the writing over time). When you encounter a vintage item which has no instructions on how to correctly clean it, a safer plan B is to hand wash with natural detergents and stain removers. 

Castile soap is usually my preferred hand washing assistant, especially since only a small amount of the liquid is required to do a thorough job, and the substance can be used in various other ways. Just like with the machine washing option, you’ll want to add a little germ-killing vinegar to your water as well.

6. Finding a green dry cleaner for intricate pieces 

In some cases, you might purchase an intricate piece (think sequins, lace, or detailed embroidery) which feels too delicate to handle on your own. This is where dry cleaning can be plan C. It’s important to note here that traditional dry cleaning utilizes tons of harmful chemicals which can be unhealthy for you and the environment. Sidestep the hazard of going to “regular” dry cleaners and instead find a green one.

A simple search online will usually lead you to a reliable business in your city or town, although some areas around the country may require a bit more investigation. Make sure to check their website for information on what kind of products they do or don’t use, if they recycle their hangers, and what kinds of items they accept. These businesses are also fantastic resources if you just have questions about certain fabrics, cleaning processes, or safe stain removal.

We’ve been hearing “reduce, reuse, recycle” since the 1970s. Admittedly, even though familiar concepts like using reusable shopping bags and going paperless are still effective, the same ideas are getting kind of old. 

Luckily, you can find plenty of awesome new ways to reduce, reuse, and recycle that complement the tried-and-true methods while also getting your creative – and sustainable – juices flowing.

Here is your go-to guide for bringing reduce, reuse, recycle into the 21st century.

Get Crafty

Most kids enjoy making fun crafts out of old milk cartons or cereal boxes on Earth Day. But crafts don’t just have to be for kids. And you don’t have to wait until April 22nd to do them.

In fact, there’s no reason we can’t all embrace our creative sides every day while we reduce, reuse, and recycle!

Repurpose Old Denim

Whether it be a jacket, a dress, or a pair of jorts – yes, jean shorts – a lot of people wear denim. As a result, denim is a big contributor to the textile waste that makes up 8% of landfills. Donate your denim stuff to thrift shops in Panama City Beach, FL if you feel that you no longer want to use it.

Fortunately, the durable material is perfect for repurposing into rugs, aprons, pillow covers, and more!

Eye-catching denim decor will save you money, cut down on waste, and maybe even act as a conversation starter for house guests.

Give New Life to Used Coffee Grounds

Most people wash their coffee grounds down the drain or toss them into the garbage can. They can still be useful, though, after you’ve brewed yourself a hot cup of wake-up juice.

If you’re into DIY projects, turn your coffee grounds into caffeinated soaps or coffee-scented candles!

If you prefer something a bit more practical, you can also use coffee grounds to keep bugs off of your plants and to eliminate odors – like garlic or onion – from your hands.

Whichever you choose, coffee grounds are a fantastic way to reduce, reuse, and recycle.

Reuse Empty Pill Bottles

You probably have at least one empty orange pill bottle lying around the house that you’re tempted to recycle.

Although they are recyclable, their small size makes them difficult for recycling centers to process, according to Consumer Reports. An even better alternative is to use them for something new.

Empty pill bottles have proven to be very versatile. As it turns out, they’re the perfect size for traveling! You can fill them with cotton swabs, hairpins, or even shampoo and lotion – provided they seal tightly.

Additionally, you can use your pill bottles to organize screws or other small parts, or even to make yourself a small DIY survival kit.

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle in the Garden

A garden – whether at a community plot or in your backyard – is a great addition to any lifestyle that can provide fresh fruits, veggies, and herbs, give you a new hobby, and even improve heart health and hand strength.

Unfortunately, gardening still creates some waste (from water usage to mulch to discarded prunings), but here are a few ways you can reduce, reuse, and recycle in your garden.

Start Composting

Composting is one of the best ways to reduce food waste while simultaneously returning nutrients to the Earth.

In general, try to avoid putting meat and fish products in compost, as they can attract unwanted pests. On the other hand, banana peels, eggshells, tea leaves, and more are all excellent nutrient-boosting additions to your compost pile.

Furthermore, you can collect (cooled) wood ashes from the fireplace and add them to your compost. According to the University of Vermont’s Department of Plant and Soil Science, ashes add valuable nutrients to the soil while keeping it from getting too acidic.

Be a “Grasscycler”

A green lawn can serve as the foundation for many fun activities – like a pickup soccer game or a nice afternoon picnic. Unfortunately, with increasing water and fertilizer costs, maintaining your lawn can also be expensive.

Don’t worry, though. There are plenty of ways to reduce, reuse, and recycle that benefit your lawn.

Grasscycling is exactly what it sounds like: grass + recycling. To “grasscycle,” all you have to do is leave your grass clippings on the lawn when you’ve finished trimming it, so they can nourish your yard’s soil instead of ending up in a landfill.

In addition to grasscycling, leaving grass a little longer, especially in the hot summer months, can help save water. Longer grass means more shade on the soil, which prevents water from evaporating before it’s absorbed. As a bonus, it can even help curb weed growth.

How Will You Reduce, Reuse, Recycle?

From denim aprons to caffeinated soap, and from composting to grasscycling, you can find plenty of contemporary ways to reduce, reuse, and recycle.

Although they won’t replace already established methods – like cutting back on single-use plastics – these ideas will help you reduce waste at home and in your community. They may even put a smile on your face while you do them.