Benefits of Thrifting

There are many advantages to thrifting, especially in retirement. Some of the major benefits include the following.

Saves Money

Usually, prices for secondhand items are significantly less than what you’d expect to pay for the same item brand-new. One study found that thrifters save around $146 per month, which adds up to more than $1,700 in annual savings.

Protects the Planet

Thrifting helps keep useful items out of landfills, and it’s friendly to the environment. In fact, research shows that buying used clothing reduces climate change impact and energy usage by 42% and shrinks water consumption by 35% to 53%.

Supports the Community

Some Fort Collins-area thrift stores give back to the community. For example, Goodwill of Colorado provides resources and training for around 172,000 people every year, while Brand Spanking New makes donations to RamStrength, a nonprofit that assists cancer survivors. There’s also the local Arc Thrift Store, which offers employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Shopping at these and other area stores means helping others while finding great bargains.

Leads to Unique Finds

When you buy secondhand, you can fill your home and your wardrobe with unique pieces. The chances of someone showing up to a special event in the same outfit as you are slim if your suit or dress was thrifted.

Increases Options

Secondhand shops usually have just one of the items they carry, as opposed to several or dozens like you find in conventional retail stores. As a result, thrift stores have more variety, making you more likely to find something you love.

Can Bring a Side Income

Some thrift stores in Fort Collins buy and sell. One example is Wear It Again, Sam, which specializes in clothing and accessories from the 19th century through the 1990s. Whether you sell your gently used items outright or on consignment, thrifting can help you make some money while you downsize or make room for new items.

Tips for Thrifting

Set yourself up for a great thrifting experience by following these tips.

1. Shop Online and in Person

You don’t have to leave home to check out the latest finds at your local thrift store. Many area stores, such as Eco Thrift and Goodwill, have virtual stores, allowing you to shop online and pay for purchases with a debit or credit card. In addition, marketplace sites, like Poshmark and Mercari, enable seniors with limited mobility to thrift entirely online.

2. Inspect Carefully Before You Buy

Many thrift stores look over merchandise before placing it on the sales floor. However, secondhand items still often have imperfections. Looking over items carefully in the store can help you spot any problems. Taking merchandise to the front of the store to view under the natural light that comes in through the windows can help, as can shining your smartphone’s flashlight onto surfaces. You may even want to bring a magnifying glass to aid in your inspections.

3. Check Return Policies

Before you buy anything, ask about return policies. Some thrift stores sell items as-is and won’t accept returns, but others will. Knowing what the rules are can help you make an informed buying decision.

4. Take Advantage of Sales and Promotions

On top of their already low prices, thrift stores often offer sales and discounts. For example, Goodwill of Colorado gives a 15% discount to people aged 55 and over every Wednesday, and Arc Thrift Stores periodically sends out coupons to members of its free loyalty program, the eClub. Keep an eye out for other ways to save as you visit new stores in the area.

5. Visit Often

Unlike retail stores that typically get new items only a couple of times each season, thrift stores have new things to discover almost daily. Visiting stores frequently or checking out their online selection regularly can help you get the best deal.

6. Bring a Tape Measure

Secondhand clothing is often not true to size due to the stretching and shrinkage that occur with washing and wear. As a result, measuring clothes in the store is a more reliable way to judge fit. Bringing along a tape measure will also help you determine whether furniture or other large items will work in your available space at home.

7. Set a Budget

Although their prices are lower, thrift stores can encourage overspending. Because each item is inexpensive, you may not think as much about the total of your purchases over time. By setting a weekly or monthly budget for thrifting and tracking your expenses, you can enjoy the fun while protecting your financial health.

8. Clean Purchases Thoroughly Before Use

Before using thrifted items, clean them thoroughly. Launder clothing and linens prior to wear, according to care instructions sewn into the fabric. For furniture and other items, choose cleaners and disinfectants labeled as safe for their specific materials.

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