Ohio Valley Goodwill Industries
Serving Greater Cincinnati

3 Signs You’re a Savvy Thrifter

Thrift shopping is a sure-fire way to save on everything from clothing to appliances and more, but there are certain strategies that can help you maximize those savings, and walk away with unique items that will leave your friends asking how you find such eye-catching pieces!

It all starts, of course, with hitting the right stores. Savvy thrift shoppers know that Goodwill is the place to go for unique fashions at affordable prices.

Can you relate? Here are some tell-tale signs that you’re an expert-level thrift shopper:

Clothing racks at Mason Goodwill Store

Clothing at Goodwill

Sign #1: You shop in all the sections

When most people think about shopping at Goodwill, they immediately think of clothing. While it’s true that Goodwill stocks all sorts of clothes for the whole family, you can also find a surprising selection of home décor, small appliances, electronics, books and toys. Make sure you take a walk down all the aisles, so you don’t miss out on a great find.

If your goal is to walk away with a creative or trendy new outfit, it’s also a good idea to think outside the traditional sections of the store. You might find an oversized sweater in the men’s section, or a flannel shirt that could be tied in a dozen different ways. Your favorite Cincinnati-area Goodwill also has accessories such as jewelry, hats, belts, and other finishing touches to complete your creative vision!

 

Clothing racks at Goodwill store

Goodwill clothing racks

Blue Trenchcoat from Goodwill

Designer coat from Goodwill

Sign #2: You know to look for name brands and NWT (new-with-tags) items

Did you know? It’s possible to find brand new clothing at Goodwill! The best thrift shoppers know to look for original tags, suggesting those items have never been worn. You can’t beat paying thrift store prices for brand-new clothes!

The same is true for name brands. If you’re unfamiliar with a brand name you find on a tag, look for signs of top-notch quality, including woven instead of printed tags on the inside, jackets with lining, high-end fabrics, and shoes marked ” leather” on the soles.

Sign #3: You shop often and visit multiple stores

The inventory inside each Goodwill store is ever-changing. As new donations come in, you’ll find treasures each time you visit! The best strategy is to shop often, even if you’re just stopping by to make a quick pass-through, and consider visiting different stores for more variety.

Goodwill Storefront

Goodwill Storefront

If you’re planning your next Cincinnati thrift store trip, think Ohio Valley Goodwill! We have 19 retail stores in and around Greater Cincinnati, so there’s bound to be a convenient location near you. Have you ever visited our Goodwill outlet store in Cincinnati? What about Goodwill’s online auction site, ShopGoodwill.com? With so many ways to shop and save, Ohio Valley Goodwill is your go-to for thrifting fun!

Best of all, shopping at Goodwill is retail therapy you can feel great about! When you shop at Goodwill, you’re also helping to create jobs in your community, supporting job training programs, and making more sustainable choices by keeping clothing and other items out of the landfill. That’s all the more reason to get your thrifting fix today!