5 Things You Should Always Thrift First

If you're into thrifting like me, you've likely noticed there are some items you can find at the thrift store almost any time you go- items you can count on to be there when you need them in a pinch.

If you're new to thrifting, you might not yet know what these are and are still paying full price for them at retail stores. In this post, I'll be sharing 5 items I highly recommend looking for at the thrift before buying them elsewhere at higher prices. As a full-time thrift store employee, these are some of the things I'll never buy brand new:

1) Jars or mason jars

 You can almost always find these at one of your local thrift stores! At each Overflow location, we usually have an entire shelf dedicated to holding our collection of jars at all times. If you’re curious about how you can use them, the possibilities are endless; while you could use them for canning, they also come in handy as drinking glasses or for storing leftovers, fruits, veggies, etc. You should be able to find jars with and without lids.

 

2) Gift items and essentials

You can find practically all your gift-giving essentials at the thrift store! At Overflow, there is no shortage of greeting cards for various holidays, gift bags in a range of sizes, tissue paper, and loads of ribbon, as well as wrapping paper closer to the holiday season. Even if you don’t think you need gift supplies on your trip to the thrift, I highly suggest stocking up on these items, so that when you need them you have them!

 

3) Dishes

The thrift store is FULL of good quality dishes that are free of plastic, which seems to be the norm at retail stores nowadays. I’ve purchased some of the cutest plates and bowls with vintage patterns that are microwave and dishwasher safe (qualities that are non-negotiable for me!) I highly recommend keeping an eye out for nice dishes like these on your future thrift trips; it shouldn’t be long before you find your new favorite pieces!  

 

4) Kitchen Utensils

Speaking of kitchen items, you can find various utensils at most secondhand stores for very affordable prices. At Overflow, we are overflowing with silverware and always have larger items in stock like serving spoons, spatulas, and measuring cups. These items range from wooden to silicone to stainless steel- you can take your pick! Whatever you do, don’t skip over the kitchen items when you’re thrifting!

 

5) Vases

Last but not least on this list are vases! If you like having fresh flowers in your home, want to gift a bouquet to a loved one, or need something to hold your faux arrangement, thrift stores are the best place to find vases! Secondhand shops always offer a variety to choose from for reasonable prices.

 

There are several more items that could go on this list, and the best way to identify these is to visit the thrift often- you're also more likely to find unique treasures this way!

If you're in the area, come see us at any of our 3 Overflow locations Monday-Saturday 10am-6pm!

You are always welcome.

 

Mari Russo, Marketing Coordinator at Overflow Thrift Store