Late July and every August is financially tight month. With back to school supplies, clothing, classroom fees and sports/club dues our family spends every September getting back on budget. This year my husband and I took an extra week (without pay) from work to go on a cruise with our children. Since we have zero credit card debt, we used our monthly surplus to make up for our loss of income in July. September my family is getting back on track and ready to start saving for the our fall vacation and the holidays.
This month I am starting a new series that will feature various ways to save money without using coupons or discount. Instead we will feature ways to get back on track naturally and provide an organic way to change your buying habits. Today we are featuring items worth buying at a thrift store.
7 Items to Buy at Thrift Stores
Thrift stores are a great place to find hidden treasures and some household necessities. Take a look below at our list of 7 items to buy at thrift stores as opposed to retail stores. When you buy these items at thrift stores, you are sure to find a better deal every time!
1. Picture frames
Gift shops and retail stores charge a pretty penny for picture frames. Snag frames for under a dollar at your local thrift shop instead. You can always add a little paint to change the color if you wish! Another tip? Know the measurements you need. Keep a list in your purse for easy reference.
2. Dolls & Kid’s Toys
Don’t pay big bucks for plush animals and dolls. You can find these items for pennies at your local thrift store. Most items can be tossed in the washer for a quick clean or take a Magic Eraser to remove marks and spots.
3. Vases
Your local thrift store will carry a huge selection of glass florist vases. These are great when giving flowers or creating centerpieces. Never buy vases new, snag them at the thrift store instead and just run them through the dishwasher.
4. Ties.
Thrift stores carry huge varieties of men’s ties for less than $2 each. This is a great way to change your look for less. Experiment with new colors and styles without spending a lot of dough.
5. Music
Thrift stores are great for finding new music to listen to. Snag a cheap CD or if you have a record player grab a classic or two. I like to snag some thrift store cd’s before a big road trip so I can listen to tunes for less.
6. Misc. Home Décor
Thrift stores are great for flower pots, wall hangings, pictures, and decorative pieces. Check out your local thrift store before buying new. You never know what you might find that can spruce up your space.
7. Fabric.
Check out your local thrift store for linen needs. You can find towels for art projects, fabric for sewing, curtains, and so much more. Use them as intended or for your crafting needs.
What are some of your favorite items to purchase at thrift stores?.











I have actually never bought at a thrift store but probably should! My step sister used to buy all her clothes at one and she got some really fantastic deals. I’m not even sure there is one near me! I really should check this out-PRONTO.
Great tips! I love searching for holiday decor, items to craft up cycle and photo props for blogging!
I shop for records at thrift stores all the time. I just love finding things like that for crazy cheap.
I love to shop at thrift store for everything. There is so really good stuff you can find. Thanks for sharing.