May 21 2008
Thrift Store Shopping Tip #6
Check your items thoroughly before you buy.
Even though prices at thrift stores are considerably lower than at retail stores, there’s nothing worse than making a purchase only to find there’s something wrong with the item. Most thrift stores do not allow returns, so, if the item is not up to par and you’ve already purchased it, it’s yours.
If you’re looking at clothing, check the size. Most stores I frequent organize their clothes by size, although others organize strictly by color groups. Still, sizing is not always accurate, especially with used clothing. Previous owners may have cut out the sizing tags. I’ve done this myself with some of my own clothes, but I hate finding clothes with the tags cut out at thrift stores. It just makes finding the perfect blouse or dress more difficult. Most thrift stores have fitting rooms, so if you’re not sure of the size, try it on.
Also, look for stains, tears, fading, holes, and other imperfections. A missing button or a small tear might be an easy fix if you’re handy with a needle and thread. A ballpoint ink stain or bleach marks are not so easy to fix. If the imperfection is not something you can repair or live with, pass on the item.
With glassware and household items, check for chips, dents, scratches and breakage. Furniture should be checked for stains and abnormal wear. If the item you want is not in acceptable condition, don’t buy it, no matter how good a deal it is. If it’s not acceptable in the store, chances are, it’s not going to be acceptable once you get it home.
Very good tip. Also, do not be embarrassed to ask to try out electronics before you buy.
My boyfriend, S., once brought his laptop to a store to try out a large computer monitor. The manager of the store told S. that he had tested that monitor himself only the day before, and that it worked perfectly.
We decided to take his word for it. Unfortunately, his word wasn’t worth all that much: we got the monitor home and found it was terribly blurry.
I’ll never buy without testing again.
I’ll never buy without testing… that go for your wife ?
fabulous things to remind people of!! I’m known as the Queen of Cheap at my house, and these “rules of the trade” are great to see listed out. Good blog post and great blog;) will come back soon.
Great tip, i know i have gotten home to see that what I just bought had a big stain or was missing a part. I would like to some more on estate auctions
I have gotten some really good deals at local little auctions,
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