Thrift stores are full of treasure, but they are also full of stuff you should leave on the rack. These ten beginner rules will help you walk out with finds you actually love — and skip the buyer’s remorse.
1. Go often, stay quick
Inventory turns over constantly. Frequent short trips beat rare marathon hauls. The regulars who find the best stuff are the ones who pop in weekly.
2. Shop the off-season
Buy coats in summer and shorts in winter. Off-season racks are picked over far less, so the quality pieces are still hanging there.
3. Check every garment in the light
Backlight fabric to catch thin spots, moth holes, and stains before you buy. Two seconds now saves a wasted purchase later.
4. Learn the brands worth grabbing
Keep a mental list of labels that hold quality and resale value. When you see one at the right price, grab it.
5. Try it on or measure it
Vintage sizing runs small and inconsistent. Carry a soft tape measure, or know your own measurements, and ignore the size on the tag.
6. Inspect zippers, buttons, and seams
Hardware and stitching are expensive to repair. A stuck zipper or split seam can be a dealbreaker unless the price reflects it.
7. Do not fall for the brand alone
A designer label on a damaged or unflattering piece is still a damaged, unflattering piece. Condition and fit come first.
8. Hit the housewares and book aisles
Clothing gets the attention, but glassware, vintage tools, and old books are often the most overlooked deals in the store.
9. Set a loose budget
Thrifting is cheap until it is not. A simple cap keeps the “it is only a few dollars” pile from getting out of hand.
10. Wash everything before you wear it
Always launder or steam thrifted items before the first wear. See our guide on how to clean thrifted clothes.
Want pieces that are already inspected and graded for you? Browse our eBay store or see everything at thriftbymail.com.