It doesn't happen very often, but every once in a while I just want to get out and about, and snoop around a store. And for that kind of aimless expedition, I know the local shopping mall is not the thrifty choice. For me, a visit to a secondhand store can satisfy the urge without blowing a thrifty gasket.
Thrift store shopping is not exactly an art, but it is fundamentally different from buying at your local mall. To begin with, the stuff in your favorite frugal emporium is used: people have donated their unwanted items, and at least part of the proceeds go to charity. (Some secondhand and consignment stores, while also dealing in used merchandise, may be a little different: consignment items aren't donated; the store is just acting as middleman between the original owner, and the buyer. The store keeps a portion of the selling price as its fee. And some secondhand stores buy used merchandise, and resell it at a profit.)
Secondly, thrift stores generally don't specialize in one particular type of item. You can find small kitchen appliances, evening bags and knitting needles all under one cozy roof. And often right beside each other. And while you'll probably find that most of the items are in decent condition, some are definitely not.
When buying anything that's already been used, it pays to be a picky shopper. If you're shopping for clothes, for example, start with an over-all inspection. Look carefully for tiny spots or stains, and small tears. See if the cleaning instructions tag is there, and also check seams, buttons, zippers and pockets. A small imperfection may not necessarily deter you from your purchase, but you'll feel a whole lot better if you find the imperfections before you take it home. And no matter what you buy, make sure you clean it when you get home.
The U.S. Product Safety Commission has some interesting information about the potential hazards of secondhand shopping, reminding us how important it is to be careful, especially when shopping for children's items. In a study of U.S. thrift stores, the U.S.P.C. estimates that 69% were selling at least one type of hazardous product.
Still, even when you weigh the potential risks, thrift stores can be a great shopping resource. And not just for necessities. Crafters and collectors are often frequent thrift store shoppers, seeking out an inexpensive source for items to add to their stash.
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