Thrift Shopping is Good for your Wallet AND the Environment!
Some shoppers say it’s almost addictive. Just like with a gambling game, once you get a win, you might find it hard to quit!
My friend, Julie, told me, “For me, it’s not just about saving money. Thrift shopping has become a game and a personal challenge!”
Stop Contributing to Landfills
Whether you contribute to a thrift shop or buy from one, you are being more environmentally and socially responsible. Donate your gently worn clothing to a thrift shop instead of throwing unwanted clothes in the trash.
It can take 200 years for clothing to fully degrade in a landfill.
Look around and you may find that some shops have higher missions, as well. Some will donate proceeds to homeless shelters or contribute to programs in impoverished areas.
Help Others by Donating
You’ve heard the proverb, “One man’s trash is another man’s treasure.”
Dress for success helps to empower women with the necessary professional attire to up their careers and gain independence.
One year after her husband’s death, Mary was emotionally ready to donate his suits and she felt good contributing to Career Gear because the clothing would benefit someone looking for work.
4 Reasons to Buy from a Thrift Shop
- There’s no broken heart when an item gets soiled!
- Discover brands from other countries.
- You probably won’t find someone else at a party with the same outfit.
- Vintage or cultural clothing inspires creative mixing and matching.
How to Find the Best Buys
Don’t go unless you have the time to look around and try the clothing on. Be on the hunt for the best savings. If you see uncut tacks on pockets or pleats, that’s a sign the item has never been worn. The crispness of the label will also tell you if it’s ever been worn or washed.
Look Carefully at Labels
Check to see if the garment is washable. Decide whether to avoid Dry Clean Only labels. Maybe the dry cleaning bill is worth it if it’s a name brand wool coat that’s never been worn, and is priced at only $3?
Discount Days
Ask if there are specific discount days or items. Some shops have color-coded labels and discount them on regular days of the week.
Know Your Brands
You’ll save time if you learn which brands fit you best and the personal look you’re going for.
Other Thrifty Tips
Be sure to eliminate as many clothing items as you bring in. One woman told me she purchases from one shop but donates to another so she doesn’t have to hunt around her discarded clothing.
Be practical. Don’t buy clothing just because it’s cheap. Love what you buy.
Please share your thoughts in the comment box below…
Are YOU a thrift shopper?
What’s the best buy YOU have ever found at a thrift shop?
Here are tips to declutter before you bring more items into your home!
I am not a thrift shop shopper but I have a friends that shops all the time at thrift shops and she gets some nice name brand clothes. good article.