Thrifting is a sustainable alternative to traditional retail shopping, capturing the attention of those aiming to live a sustainable and eco-conscious lifestyle worldwide. Its sustainability stems from various factors, making it an appealing choice for those seeking to reduce their environmental impact. Thrifting is a budget friendly way to embrace your style by finding unique and vintage items that you would not be able to find otherwise. As a homesteader and someone who thrives to live a sustainable lifestyle, here are 10 things I always look for while thrifting.
1. Clothing
The first thing on my list has to be clothing and if you have children you will understand why. Children outgrow their wardrobes so quickly it is just not economical to fork out hundreds of dollars on new wardrobes multiple times per year. Not to mention the environmental impact buying new clothing leads to, such as resource depletion, pollution, and waste generation. Embracing sustainable alternatives such as thrifting, clothing rental, and supporting ethical and eco-conscious brands can help mitigate these impacts and promote a more sustainable fashion industry. By shopping second hand you will also have access to quality vintage pieces that no one else around you will have. When I am hunting for new pieces for my wardrobe, I specifically aim to find linen, 100% Cotton, or wool. I absolutely love all things linen and if you have ever bought a piece new you know how expensive it can be. So when I find a beautiful linen dress for just a few dollars it’s like winning the lottery.
2. Linens
Another thing I always check for at my thrift store is linens. Specifically, I like to check the linen section for tablecloths, curtains, gently used sheets, and vintage quilts. And I’ll tell you why, even if I do not have a need for these specific linens, because they are such large items it is far cheaper to buy a second hand tablecloth versus a yard of new fabric. So if you are looking to do some sewing in the near future, I highly recommend checking the linen section of your thrift store first as you might be able to score enough fabric for your project for just a few dollars. Many thrift stores offer weekly discounts and sales on specific items as well. My local thrift stores label their items with different colored tags and will offer a 25% off discount each week on a specific color. So if you are new to thrifting, check with your local stores to find out if they do anything like this and you could potentially save even more!
3. Storage
If you are anything like me, you are always finding yourself in need of storage and organization solutions. I personally hate buying plastic, so I am always on the hunt for baskets, glass containers, and wooden bins (really anything but plastic!). I like to store all of my medicinal herbs and dried goods in glass jars in my kitchen so I always check for large glass jars. Baskets are just so versatile that I never pass up a good basket either. They can be used in any room of your home and add a more curated look to your space. Vintage trunks, chests, and suitcases also make for great storage solutions for seasonal clothing and the great thing about suitcases is that they can easily fit under a bed or be stacked. Just toss a couple pieces of cedar wood in with your clothing before storing to keep them smelling fresh and to naturally repel bugs. I also like to look for racks and shelving when I am out thrifting as I try to maximize my vertical space as often as I can to save on room. And who doesn’t love a good shelf full of plants!
4. Toys and Books
This is a huge one for me! I thrift 90% of my children’s toy’s and books. Though my children are not of school age yet, we will be homeschooling once they are of age so I always stop by the book section to check out what’s in stock. Over the last couple years I have already managed to build such a great little educational library for my littles that I can not wait for them to utilize. Children tend to fixate on different interests from time to time as well. so being able to purchase toys that they are interested in as they grow and change without spending an arm and a leg is just such a great feeling. We go through our toy room a couple times per year (usually after a birthday or Christmas) and take anything my kiddo’s have outgrown or no longer play with to a local thrift store or shelter. Also (pro tip), I love to keep a chest in my bedroom and as I find new toy’s for my kiddo’s. I just place them in the chest. This way when a gift giving occasion arises, I already have a whole chest full of unique and fun goodies for my littles and am not left with the stress of hoping to find something at the thrift store last minute.
5. Kitchen Wares
This is probably what I enjoy hunting for the most as I love to cook and spend a lot of time in my kitchen. Most kitchen wares you find at thrift store are of better quality than what you will find new. Things just aren’t made like they used to be. I love looking for vintage dishes like Pyrex, Corelle, and Corning ware. I’m also always on the lookout for enamel, copper, and cast iron because I love the look they add to my kitchen and I cook all my food in copper and cast iron. What I would like to warn you about though is that some dishes made back in the day were made using lead paint. With this being said, I strongly urge you to purchase a lead testing kit like this one here and take it with you on your thrifting adventures so you can test any dishes before purchasing.
6. Furniture
Most thrift stores generally have a large selection of furniture for you to choose from. I have scored some beautiful timeless pieces during my past adventures and buying furniture second hand can save you hundreds if not thousands! If you are buying any upholstered furniture like couches or chairs, a upholstery cleaner like this one can get your well loved furniture looking good as new! I have this exact machine and have absolutely gotten my money’s worth out of it.
7. Outdoor Gear
My family loves to camp so when I am out thrifting, I love to keep my eye out for any outdoor gear. I have found things like hammocks, foldable chairs, tents, outdoor rugs, and even brand new outdoor games and activities for my kiddos. If you are into hiking, most thrift stores that I have been to generally have a great selection of hiking boots, pants, and packs. Most thrift stores generally have a sporting section as well with things such as baseball gloves and bats, golfclubs, tennis rackets, etc.
8. Wall Decor
No matter your style, thrift stores offer a huge selection of wall decor. My super tip though, don’t forget to look at the frames. Even if you do not like the artwork, often times you can find beautiful vintage frames that are made to last. And well made frames these days are not cheap! Gallery walls look great in any home. This is probably my favorite hack for decorating on a budget. Once you find a few fancy second hand frames, head over to Etsy and search for “downloadable art” that matches your style. Once purchased you will receive the files for the art in various different sizes and then you can upload the file to any printing company and have it shipped straight to your door. Pop it into those frames, hand them up and I promise it will add such a nice touch to your space. If you want to check out some downloadable art, click HERE.
9. Canning Supplies
While purchasing brand-new canning equipment is always an option, stumbling upon hidden gems in thrift stores, flea markets, or garage sales is always so rewarding and purchasing second hand is going to save you a lot of money. If you are new to canning, some things to be on the look out for are pressure canners, water bath canners, and jars. I generally have the most success thrifting canning supplies at yard sales rather than thrift stores. If you are a beginner canner, you can check out my “Beginner’s Guide to Canning” by clicking HERE to read more.
10. Gardening Supplies
Gardening tools, equipment, and supplies are always a lucky find and if I can find vintage tools it’s a great day! I usually have the most luck with this sort of thing at yard sales but I have came across brand new raised beds still in their box and even a compost turner in my local Goodwill. The best thing to keep in mind is that not every trip is going to yield great finds. Most thrift stores put new merchandise out daily so visiting often is the best way to maximize your chances of finding the best gems.
Subscribe to Our Newsletter and Receive Our FREE Foraging Guide
*This post contains affiliate links that I may earn a small commission off of at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support.*
