Thrift Store Shopping

There has always been a stigma associated with thrift store shopping but I will admit my name is Kelly and I am a Thrift-Store-aholic! I have gotten some amazing deals at my local thrift store including a Blu-Ray Player, Surround Sound and Bread Machine all for $9.99 each and all work beautifully. Toys, clothes, and household items are also Tgreat things to be found at thrift stores. But it is possible to over-spend at thrift stores too. So here are some tips to make sure you’re not breaking the bank. 

Set a budget before you go in, I take cash out of the ATM (one that doesn’t charge fees of course). I limit myself to spending only that cash. 

Avoid shopping with the kids if possible. Kids are impulse shoppers and when stuffed animals are only $0.50 or $0.99 it’s easy to get caught up buying toys they don’t need or won’t use. 

Shop with a friend. Often times I have bought something questionable and having a second set of eyes in the store for opinions can be very helpful. 

Ask yourself “Where will this go, do I have a place for it?” You can find a lot of cute home decorations at a thrift store and it’s tempting to throw it in the buggy so you don’t miss out on a good deal. But if you don’t have a place to put it that good deal could end up in the closet and being a waste of money. 

Know the sales. Yes even thrift stores have sales. Usually thrift stores have sales on certain days of the week. Call your local stores to find out what day of the week is best to shop. 

Best times of the year to shop. After Christmas, people are always throwing out old stuff and sometimes new after Christmas so this is a good time to shop. After New Years. Take advantage of other peoples’ new years resolution to clean the attic or clean the garage and see what great items you can find. Spring. Spring cleaning is another time people are cleaning out attics and garages so frequent the thrift shops and see what you can find!