Thrift Store Shopping Tips

Columnist - Gayle Lynn Falkenthal

Before you head out shopping at thrift stores to bag those bargains, you need to know the rules of the game in order to win. Like any culture, there are some rules you need to follow to “fit in” like an experienced thrift store shopper.

1- Don’t count on dressing rooms. Wear a skirt so you can pull on items right under it to the side of an aisle. Wear a sleeveless top so you can slip items right on top of it. Avoid jewelry that might snag or be pulled off.

2- Dress for the job. Thrift stores aren’t always white glove clean. So avoid light colored clothing and anything that might catch in tight aisles. Wear comfortable shoes.

3- Measure your favorite garments at home, especially jeans. Bring a tape measure and check your list of measurements against your new items.

4- Carry cash. While some thrift stores take credit cards, many like AMVETS are cash only.

5- Take your own bags, especially places like swap meets.

6- It’s smart to shop thrifts late Monday or Tuesday, once the staff has had time to sort weekend donations and place them in inventory.

7- For sale items, find out ahead of time what days are discount days.

8- Check carefully for damage and wear. On jeans, check the back hems. Feel the pocket linings. Are they rough or pilled? If yes the jeans are old and worn. Check the inner thighs of pants for wear and pilling. Check necks and underarms for wear and staining. Always look at seams and make sure all buttons and snaps are there. Check shoe heels for nicks.

9- NO RETURNS. Does it go without saying? You aren’t at Nordstrom! Be sure you want it before you pay and walk out.

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