Ohio Valley Goodwill Industries
Serving Greater Cincinnati

How to Thrift Shop Like a Pro

Thrift shopping will never go out of style, but in recent years, people are embracing the thrifting lifestyle like never before!

There are many reasons why thrift shopping is so popular these days. First, it’s an eco-friendly way to shop because it gives donated items a second chance at life and diverts reusable textiles from local landfills. Second, thrift shopping is highly affordable. You might be surprised at how much more you can get for your money by choosing a thrift store like Ohio Valley Goodwill over traditional retailers. Lastly, thrift shopping gives you a chance to discover one-of-a-kind items that you might not find anywhere else!

If you’re new to the art of thrift shopping at Goodwill, you might not be sure where to start. Check out the following tips to learn how to become a thrift shopping pro!

Donation box with clothes

Get ready to donate to Goodwill!

#1: Make room by donating your pre-loved items

Thrifting pros aren’t just good at shopping; they also know the value of donating the items they no longer use, want, or need. Not only is donating pre-loved items to Goodwill an environmentally conscious choice, but you’ll also make room for new thrifting treasures. Someone else is sure to love your gently-used clothing, accessories, shoes, household goods, and more, so be sure to donate before your next thrifting trip!

#2: Visit often

Orange purse from Goodwill

Orange purse from Goodwill

Because Ohio Valley Goodwill is constantly receiving a flow of donations, our retail stores are always updated with a revolving inventory of items. When you visit your local Goodwill store frequently, you’ll have a better chance at scoring the latest, most unique finds. Savvy thrifters plan regular shopping trips and even visit multiple stores in one day!

#3: Keep your options open

Another pro thrifting tip is to have an open mind when shopping. While you may have a vision for a certain outfit or room décor, keep your eyes peeled for other unique pieces as you shop. If you only stick to one idea, you may end up leaving empty-handed. However, if you keep your mind open, inspiration may strike as you walk up and down the aisles of Goodwill, and you might just find that hidden treasure you never knew you needed!

Decorative pink bottles at Goodwill

Home decor from Goodwill!

#4: Be imaginative

Thrift shopping opens the door to creativity. As you wander the aisles of your local Goodwill store, look for items that you could repurpose and give a new life. There are endless DIY projects that you can tackle for less using upcycled thrift store finds!

For example, maybe you find an item with a great style or shape, but you don’t like the color. You could make it your own with fabric dye or paint! Or, maybe you love the color or pattern of a thrifted piece of clothing, but it doesn’t quite fit. With the right belt or a little tailoring magic, you can transform just about anything into a stylish outfit for a fraction of traditional retail store prices.

 

Plan your next thrifting trip today!

Whether you’re looking to elevate your living space or spruce up your wardrobe, thrift shopping offers an earth-friendly and budget-friendly solution. At Ohio Valley Goodwill, our ever-changing inventory of donated items makes thrifting fun and easy, plus we have 19 amazing retail store locations in and around Cincinnati to choose from!

Environmental Sustainability Messaging

Let’s Make An Impact!

The best part is that every Goodwill purchase you make will go on to help support job skills training and employment support for individuals with disabilities, helping deserving job seekers obtain meaningful employment within their communities. Saving money, supporting the environment, and helping neighbors in need “” there are so many reasons to feel great about shopping at Goodwill!

Ready to get your thrift shopping fix? Find your nearest Ohio Valley Goodwill retail store today!