A Minimalist’s Guide to Thrifting
As a self proclaimed “minimalist”, I’ve learned a few tricks over the years to keep the clutter from building up, while still having a blast going to thrift stores frequently. If you’ve ever struggled with being overwhelmed at a thrift store, feeling guilty for buying something just because it was a good price, or just feel like you have “too much clutter”, this guide is for you.
A recent thrift haul - everything seen here cost under $11.
Plan Ahead
Make a list about what specific items you’re hunting for. I personally have a list saved on my phone that I add to whenever I think of something I’d like to thrift, that way it’s always with me. Not only does this keep me from mindlessly buying things I don’t necessarily need, but I find that it makes me a more effective thrifter. If I know I’m looking for a specific type of item, I can zero in on that section of the store right away. Don’t get me wrong, it’s also fun to browse aimlessly, but I promise you’ll find more of what you actually need if you go prepared.
We found our midcentury bedroom dressers after searching for months. I would not have found them if I hadn’t been pursuing the items on my list because I specifically searched for “midcentury dresser” almost daily on FB Marketplace until I finally found them.
Our dressers were a splurge, but were well worth it at $1300 for both dressers and 2 nightstands.
Make sure it has a home
This is my number one rule when buying anything in general, but it’s especially important when thrifting. Make sure you know where something is going to go before you take it home. There are so many unique pieces at thrift stores, sometimes it’s easy to buy something just because it’s really cool. While sometimes this ends up working out well, I’ve personally found myself struggling to make an item fit more often than not and just end up re-donating it in the end.
A $0.50 pot and an Ikea Hovsta frame we found for $4 for a set of 4!
Quality over quantity
I know it can be frustrating to walk into a thrift store, excited to pick up something amazing, only to leave empty handed. We’ve all felt the urge to buy something just to make the trip “worth it”, but I urge you to reconsider. I walk out empty handed more times than not. Part of thrifting is the thrill of the hunt… which means it’s going to take time and patience if your aim is to fill your home with things that truly reflect your personality. Don’t be discouraged you didn’t find anything this time - think of what you may find next time! Save your money for the items that make your heart race. Those will be the things that stay with you long after the others have been donated again.
Do you enjoy thrifting? What has been your favorite find recently? I just found this set of brass dolphins that I’m obsessed with! I am so into brass animals right now… not sure what that’s about but so far I’ve got a deer, 2 dolphins, a rabbit, and a small turtle.
They were under $20 for the set.