7 Thrift Shopping Tips You Need to Know Before Going to the Store
I want to chat with you and give you some thrifting tips many of you asked me for. The following are my best tips to help you get great prices on quality merchandise. I'll cover where I shop and how I shop.
Table of contents
Where to shop
One question I often get is how to find thrift stores where things aren't priced through the roof. You know, places where you won't end up paying ten bucks for a simple basket. Well, I've got some handy tips to share with you.
First off, let's talk about location. When you're scouting for thrift stores, pick wisely. I tend to steer clear of newer areas and lean towards older neighborhoods. You know, places with history, where folks have lived for a while. These spots often have better deals and more unique vintage finds. I've lived in big cities like Los Angeles and Chicago, and trust me, going outside the city or hitting up older suburbs can save you some serious cash.
My favorite thrift stores
Now, let me give you the lowdown on my favorite thrift spots. The Salvation Family Store and the Thrift Giant are in Louisville, Texas. Over in Dallas, I'm a big fan of St. Vincent de Paul's thrift store and Frisco Grace Bridge resale. And don't forget about the Grapevine antique market for truly beautiful discoveries. These places offer lower prices, and that's what we're all about, right?
Discount days
Next up, knowing the discount days is key. Some stores have specific days where certain items are marked down, so it's worth finding out and planning your visits accordingly. And here's a pro tip: if you spot something you love but it's a bit damaged, don't hesitate to ask for a discount. Most of the time, they'll cut you a deal.
Check the racks and the bins by the dressing rooms
If you're looking for clothing, cool things that people try on tend to end up on the racks by the clothing area by the dressing rooms - especially if they choose not to purchase them.
Get to know the staff
Forming relationships can help you score items you're looking for. If you build friendships with the thrift store staff, they may be willing to let you know when an item you're looking for comes in or even hold it for you.
Shop off-season
If it's the end of a season, I will look for items that they're going to pull off the floor and save for the next season. That's another way to get a great discount.
Bed bugs
Now, let's tackle the big, bad bed bugs. I know they're the stuff of nightmares, but they're not as common as you might think. In all my years of thrifting, I've only encountered them once. Still, being cautious is important, so here's what I do to avoid them.
First off, I never thrift beds. Nope, it's not going to happen. But if you're eyeing furniture, give it a thorough inspection. Look for any signs of bed bugs like eggs, stains, or droppings. Always carry a measuring tape and flashlight for a closer look. When you get home, clean everything outside before bringing it indoors.
A little bleach and a good vacuuming should do the trick. And if you're dealing with clothing, check the seams and pockets, then wash and dry them immediately.
Thrift shopping tips
I hope my thrifting tips help you enjoy thrifting even more. Thrifting should be fun and affordable, so don't sweat the small stuff. If you've got more tips, share them in the comments below.
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