Let’s just be honest: raising kids can be expensive. From clothes and toys to furniture and books, the costs can quickly add up. I’ve always enjoyed thrifting kids items, but was really introduced to that side of thrifting when I had my own children, and let me tell you: there’s absolutely no shortage of children’s items circulating in the secondhand market. Whether you’re shopping for your own children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews or even for gifts, thrifting not only helps save money, but it also teaches children the value of reuse and recycling. These are seven things I always find at secondhand stores and rarely buy new for my little ones:
Winter Gear
Kids outgrow their clothes faster than you can say “growth spurt.” Instead of spending a fortune on brand-new winter gear like coats and snowsuits, I always check the vast selection of gently-used or like new winter gear for a fraction of the price.
Dress Clothes
From fancy party dresses to adorable dress shirts, thrift stores are a gold mine for fashionable finds for special events.
Toys
Toys can be expensive, and children often lose interest or outgrow them quickly. Along with garage sales and Facebook marketplace, thrift stores are excellent sources for pre-loved toys. Board games, puzzles, dolls, action figures, and educational toys can often be found in great condition. Plus, buying secondhand toys promotes the idea of sharing and recycling among children.
Books
We love our local library but also enjoy thrifting books for our home library. Thrift stores are stocked with a wide variety of children’s books both in store and online. Whether you’re looking for picture books, early readers, or young adult novels, you can often find them at a fraction of the cost of new books. Plus, reading secondhand books can introduce children to classic stories and authors they might not encounter otherwise.
Sports and Outdoor Gear
If your child is into sports or outdoor activities, you know how quickly they can outgrow their gear. Thrift stores often carry sporting equipment like bicycles, roller skates, scooters, and even helmets. Buying secondhand allows your child to explore various activities without a significant financial commitment.
Craft Supplies
Encourage your child’s creativity by stocking up on craft supplies from thrift stores. You’ll find everything from crayons and markers to fabrics and art materials. Plus, by reusing these items, you’re teaching your children the value of sustainability and resourcefulness.
Halloween Costumes
Step into a Goodwill around the months of September and October and within five minutes you will understand why you should reconsider buying a costume at full retail price. Goodwill and other local thrift store are bursting with fantastic costumes for kids. Everything from oh-so-adorable infant costumes to on-trend characters.
Reusing items reduces the demand for new products, which, in turn, lessens the environmental impact of manufacturing and transportation. It’s a small yet meaningful way to teach children about the importance of being mindful of our planet.
So, the next time you’re in need of something for your little one, consider thrifting it! You might just find a hidden treasure that brings joy to your child without emptying your wallet. Happy thrifting!
