5 Items to Buy Secondhand

I’ve always been a big fan of thrifting. It started with an enjoyment of neighborhood garage sales as a kid, but several years ago I started a commitment to the lifestyle. At the time I was spending a lot of time at thrift shops trying to build my wool stash for making braided rugs, and realized how many other great items were available for a small fraction of the cost. 

Since then, I’ve had to rein in my wool buying, but have regularly added new items (and saved a fortune doing so) by buying secondhand.

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In fact, I’ve (mostly) sworn off buying the following items new:

1. Small kitchen appliances

Have you ever purchased a kitchen appliance that you swore you’d use, only to watch it collect dust? A juicer, food processor, espresso machine, ice cream maker? I’ll never forget the time I went to a secondhand store and counted eight (8!) quesadilla makers. It was funny/sad because I know I’d seen one on a friend’s wedding registry a couple of years earlier. I laughed at the idea of anyone actually buying one because why wouldn’t you just use a pan?

If you’re looking to try out a new appliance, buy one secondhand before you drop a bunch of cash on new. If you like it, make the investment in what you really want down the line, but don’t make your pocketbook or Mother Earth suffer because you’re feeling experimental.

2. Kids clothes

Kids fly through clothes. If I get a year out of a dress, it’s a miracle. Not to mention that my little fashionista likes to dress herself, so if she doesn’t like what I’ve purchased? I’ve just thrown money out the window. I’m fortunate that I have two nieces that are two years older than her and a nephew that’s two years older than my son, so we receive a lot of hand-me-downs. But I always try to buy a few alternative items at garage sales over the summers to fill in any shortages. 

Annually, we probably spend less than $200 on kids clothes, and most of that is on footwear, which is incredibly hard to find used in good condition. 

3. Toys

I’m a mean mom. I don’t buy my kids new toys (well, not usually). I won’t let my pocketbook be subject to the latest Disney trend or purchase any more stuffies than they already have. Frankly, outside of birthday and holiday gifts, they rarely receive any toys. But if they do, they’re secondhand. Puzzles, blocks, bins of plastic animals, and toy foods are abundant at secondhand stores. Large plastic toys (sand tables, toy cars, doll houses) are readily available on online markets. Check ’em out before you splurge!

4. Wool

This might be a bit niche, but as a crafter, I Iove to upcycle. One of my favorite things to make is braided wool rugs. I also use it for purses, baby booties, and I love this easy no-sew toddler outfit. If you buy wool at the fabric store, it is expensive! But there’s an abundance of old wool coats, suits, and sweaters looking for a second life. 

5. Books

There are HEAPS of books available at secondhand stores and garage sales. Whether you’re looking to learn a new skill or seeking a good read, just spend a few minutes perusing the shelves. Best part? They’ll cost less than a late fee at the library if you’re a slow reader like me. 

But BEWARE

Now of course, secondhand shopping has its traps. Overbuying is easy to do, missing pieces, shorter lifespan, or needing to clean well-loved items. But for me, these are all risks worth taking. Nothing a little inspection or introspection can’t address!

How about you? Is there something that you’ve always loved buying secondhand? Do you have a brag-worthy best find? Share your experiences in the comments below! 

— Melissa, Funky Crunchy Mama

P.S. In all my searches I’ve really started to embrace secondhand gifting. Turns out there are a ton of great one-of-kind finds out there. Here are five reasons you should embrace it, too!