The reuse and resell market is booming, and it’s no surprise. Buying used is an excellent way for you and your family to stretch your dollars and reduce waste. Here are some tips on how to buy used.
Clothing and Accessories
1. Utilize online platforms to look for quality pieces
Buying used does not mean that you have to compromise on quality. Sites like Poshmark, ThredUp (click to get $10 to shop at Poshmark or ThredUp via my referral link!) The RealReal, and eBay allow shoppers to find beautiful items at a far lower price than buying new. Many of these platforms sell kid’s clothes, too! And, you can sell your gently-used clothing to these sites for cash or credit.
TIP: If buying designer items, don’t be afraid to ask for authentication documents so you can be sure that what you are buying is the real deal.
2. Shop in-person
If you’d prefer to see items IRL, check out local consignment shops or larger format stores like Goodwill or the Salvation Army. The bigger stores can be overwhelming, but take your time. Inspect items carefully and try everything on.
TIP: Always throw used clothing in the drying for at least an hour before wearing them. This will kill any critters that are along for the ride!
3. Buy in bulk
If you have small children, look for bulk sales on platforms like Facebook Marketplace. Sellers will often bundle items according to age.
TIP: Ask questions of the seller regarding the condition, styles, and brands. When meeting up with a seller in-person, exercise caution by meeting in a public place.
3. Check out retailers with resell options
Brands like Patagonia, REI, and Levi’s have their own resell subsections in support of their sustainability missions. While the Patagonia Worn Wear program isn’t necessarily secondhand clothing, Patagonia uses material from traded-in Patagonia clothing to make upcycled pieces. For a more classic secondhand store setup, check out REI Good & Used or Levi’s Secondhand for broken in pieces.
H&M also just partnered with ThredUp to introduce H&M “Pre-Loved,” where customers can buy secondhand H&M items from ThredUp in categories like kids, women’s, denim, and athletic wear. New items from past collabs will also be available.
Tech
1. Buy used on Amazon, Best Buy, Target & Walmart
These popular retailers offer pre-owned and refurbished tech, including computers, laptops, headphones, phones, and gaming consoles.
TIP: Look specifically for certified/warrantied items in case something goes wrong. This applies especially to Amazon where you could be purchasing from a third party. Also, always familiarize yourself with return policies.
2. Use platforms like eBay, Backmarket, GizmoGo, Decluttr, OfferUp, Gazelle, Swappa & MPB
eBay, Swappa, and OfferUp carry lots of used tech items on their platforms. You often have the option to meet in person or have the item shipped.
TIP: If meeting in person, meet in a public place and ideally bring someone with you.
Decluttr, GizmoGo, Backmarket, and Gazelle are platforms where you can buy and sell secondhand electronics, like laptops, phones, and tablets. MPB specializes in camera and video equipment. These businesses purchase items from consumers, carefully inspect and repair them, and make them available for sale. There are more assurances in place when purchasing from one of these platforms versus buying from an individual seller.
3. Go straight to the brand
Apple’s Certified Refurbished and Samsung’s Re-Newed programs allow consumers to purchase like-new warrantied products, and trade in their older products if need be.
Furniture
1. Shop local
Places like Habitat for Humanity, Goodwill, thrift stores, and consignment shops will have well-priced items, however, with the rise of resellers and the popularity of “vintage” items, some pieces may be priced higher than you’d expect. If a price seems high, Google the item to see if you can find prices for the same/similar items online.
2. Visit yard/garage sales and estate sales
Nothing beats a good “everything must go” yard sale where prices will be rock bottom! Estate sales are typically higher priced, but good finds are still available especially if you go on the last day. Local Facebook groups and NextDoor are good places to learn about nearby sales.
TIP: Spend the time to scrutinize each piece before purchasing. Ask for discounts if you find imperfections.
4. Don’t be afraid of DIY fixes but be realistic about what you can do
An item that you like may need a touchup or a repair, which is fine if you’re handy and you have the time. Avoid too many DIYs that potentially won’t get finished.
5. Go digital
If you’re more of an online person, sites like Chairish have used furniture. Etsy is another site to check out as it has unique pieces of upcycled furniture. The pricing on these sites can potentially be higher than in-store finds, but it’s worth a try if you’re looking for a unique piece to spruce up your home.
We may receive commissions for purchases made through links in this post. In addition to a handful of affiliate networks, TrueTrae.com/TraeBodge.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
This article appeared in its original form on Credit.com. It has since been updated.
Related post: How to save money when you shop
Recommended Posts
Trae Bodge
Smart Shopping Expert at truetrae.com at TRUETRAE
- How to Save Money on Your Wedding
- How Retailers Trick You Into Spending
- Spring Break Travel Essentials
- How to Save Money on In-Person Events
- Mother’s Day Gifts under $50
- How to Save Money by Comparing Prices
- Mother’s Day Gifts $100 and Under
- How to Save Money at Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s
- Hidden Perks of Shopping After Amazon Prime Day
- How to Save Money at IKEA
- How to Save Money at Craft Stores
- How to save money at TJ Maxx, Marshalls & HomeGoods
Leave a Reply