By Kelly Maue

If you’re motivated by sustainability, affordability, and individual expression, there’s a hobby that checks all the boxes:  thrifting. 

Buying pre-owned items helps keep them out of landfills. Goods like clothes, housewares, and furniture get a second life, while saving resources and energy needed to produce new inventory. Used items cost substantially less than newer versions, making them more budget friendly. And items like a pre-loved vintage handbag, pair of boots, or piece of artwork can help establish your personal style or identity.

You can find pre-loved pieces at garage sales, online buy-and-sell groups, flea markets, charity shops, and thrift stores. Buying secondhand is not just for the stereotypical young adult furnishing a first apartment – for many, it’s a lifestyle. 

And why not? A little perseverance can pay off big time.

You can score everything from designer clothing and unique jewelry to crystal and collectibles. Or, find books, board games, solid wood furniture, sneakers, seasonal items, and more; the possibilities are seemingly endless. But have an open mind, because while you may be hoping for Pyrex, a pair of quirky bookends or a cashmere sweater may be the deal of the day. The consensus is that going early in the week gets the best results, as people typically donate over the weekends.

Thrifting can be a creative outlet. While some shop for necessities, others look for a quick flip or a project piece. A solid table might need a quick clean and a coat of stain. Turn that wine rack into a towel holder or transform a large picture frame into a serving tray. Update a lamp with paint and a new shade, use old dishes for a mosaic project, or transform an old door into a headboard. Vintage jewelry makes unique refrigerator magnets, while teacups can become small planters. Use your imagination!

No matter the goal, always inspect items before you purchase. If it smells of smoke or pets, leave it behind. Some problems, like a broken zipper, can turn into an unneeded project. Large furniture is heavy to move and even harder to transport. And if something can’t be cleaned or sanitized, please skip it altogether.

While inspecting jewelry, look for stamps like “925” or “14k” to find silver and gold. Check items like serving dishes and art for stamps and signatures. And furniture with dovetail joints is almost always a sign of quality craftsmanship.

If you’re new to thrifting, you may not know where to start. Whether you’re looking for items to keep, upcycle, or flip, here are some general categories to consider: 

• Denim, graphic T-shirts, blazers, outerwear, leather jackets, jewelry, and handbags 
• Original art, baskets, pottery, décor, vases, crystal, mirrors, frames, and plant stands
• Solid wood furniture (far superior to particle board)
• Storage pieces including baskets, chests, trunks, and old suitcases
• High-end pots, pans, cookware, and small appliances
• Books, puzzles, games, and vinyl records
• Electronics and tools
• Sports equipment
• Retro items
• Unique pieces and anything else that sparks your interest

Thrifting can be addictive, as inventory is constantly changing and prices are often deeply discounted. The thrill of the hunt and finding a great deal triggers the release of dopamine,  which can make you feel pleasure. 

But thrifting can backfire if you overdo it. Even if the price tag is tempting, remind yourself that you probably don’t need six more sweaters. If shopping in general becomes a problem, examine the circumstances. For example, don’t shop when stressed or tired, and try delaying non-essential purchases to avoid impulse buying. 

Thrifting helps those shopping out of necessity and satisfies collectors and the environmentally conscious. It has grown in popularity and has become a cultural movement. Try your hand at finding unique pieces and saving a few bucks while creating your own personal brand or style.