- Go early.
Going thrifting when the store has just opened will give you the first pick of the day. Being able to sift through the racks before everyone has gone through them gives you a higher chance of finding items that you like and the newly discounted pieces.
- Check the rack of new arrivals.
Most stores have a rack near the front of the store with clothing that has recently been brought out. It’s always worth searching through these since not many people have gone through them yet. You never know what you may find!
- Take advantage of discounts.
Be sure to take note of any promotions or discounts. Goodwill stores generally have a certain colored tag marked 50% off depending on the day of the week, and they also offer a 15% student discount on Thursdays! Taking note of which colored tag is discounted each day of the week is never a bad idea either.
- Shop outside of your size.
There can be many unique finds that have been misplaced or put back in the wrong section. Some brands also run big or small, meaning a small in one brand may fit you even if you’re usually a medium. That large sweatshirt isn’t the wrong size, it’s just intentionally oversized.
- Plan ahead.
Before going thrifting, make a list of what you’re looking for so you’re less overwhelmed by the seemingly endless racks of clothes. This will also prevent you from buying items that you don’t really need. Another way to plan ahead is by creating a Pinterest board of outfits that you’d like to replicate, and then look for the pieces you need.
- Bring reusable bags.
While some thrift stores may offer paper bags for a certain fee, bringing reusable bags is always a good idea so that you’re not stuck having to carry an armload of clothing back home on the T. As a bonus, reusable bags are usually more durable and sustainable!
- Wash your clothes.
As cute as that new top may be, make sure to wash your clothes before wearing any of them. You never know where donated clothing from the store has been, what it has touched, or if the person who wore it last washed it before donating it.
- Look for people’s rejects.
Many people leave their rejects on the ends of racks, whether it’s because it didn’t fit them, wasn’t in their budget, or because they found something even better. However, you can often find many treasures in these small stacks of clothing. You can even find some last minute pieces by going back around the store quickly before checking out to see if there are any new rejects hanging on the racks that weren’t there before.
- Avoid impulse buys.
In order to prevent buying something that you’ll regret later, ask yourself: Will I actually wear this? Am I just getting it because of the price? Is this what I came looking for? Am I sure that it’s the right size for me?
- Go through everything later.
If you’re unsure about an item, the best thing to do is toss it in your cart and go through everything at the end. This will give you more time to go through the racks and to think about your decision in the back of your mind. You might regret putting it back when you see someone else at checkout with it.
- Wear tight clothing.
Wearing tight clothing such as leggings and a fitted shirt makes it much easier to quickly try on items in the store. Just make sure to change afterwards!
- Shop on a weekday.
Saturdays are usually the busiest day for thrift stores, meaning many items will be quickly picked through by others. Going on a weekday when it’s less busy might give you a better chance of getting more treasures. Plus, what better way to take a break from studying than by going thrifting?
- Find out when the store restocks.
If you’re a frequent thrifter, try to find out when your usual thrift stores restock. Some employees may disclose this information to you, but finding out from observation is also possible.
- Shop off-season.
As winter approaches and everyone is starting to shop for sweaters and heavy coats, many of the jean shorts and t-shirts may be going on sale. While it may seem far away, buying off season can get you the best deals in preparation for future seasons.
- Check for defects.
Thoroughly check all clothing items for stains, holes, or tears. You never want to come home and find out that the “perfect hoodie” you just found actually has a hole in the sleeve.
With these 15 tips in mind, your next thrift trip should hopefully be more fun and successful. However, keep in mind that each shopping trip is an adventure and you never know what you could stumble upon. Happy thrifting!