We consulted thrifting experts for their secrets to a fruitful thrift-shopping excursion. For some, the charm of thrift shopping lies in the excitement of the search and the satisfaction of discovering items that are entirely unique. Others purchase secondhand to reduce their ecological footprint, prolonging the lifespan of existing items that might otherwise end up in the landfill. And for those on a budget, thrift stores offer a resource for home furnishings that don't break the bank. Whatever your motivation for thrifting, the key to scoring the best finds at the most attractive prices is knowing what to look for and how to navigate the search.

Without a clear goal, it's easy to become overwhelmed amid a thrift store's extensive aisles of home goods and racks packed with clothing. But with the right shopping strategies, you can uncover some extraordinary finds at unbeatable prices.

9 Pro Tips for Thrift Shopping
We turned to expert secondhand shoppers Kat Steck and Bronwyn Tarboton for their best thrift shopping advice. Read on to learn what to seek at thrift stores, how to find the best bargains, and more secrets to successful thrifting.

1. Get Acquainted with Nearby Thrift Stores.
The best way to become comfortable with thrift-store shopping is to start local. If you're a complete novice, Steck recommends visiting a nearby thrift store just to browse. Get acquainted with the types of items they offer and how things are organized. "Observing the layout can give you an idea of what kinds of donations they frequently receive and allows you to quickly check for items on your list since you'll know exactly where to go," she says.

Laurey Glenn Photography

2. Have a Clear Idea of What You Want.
Sorting through heaps of items at a thrift store becomes much easier if you have a clear idea of what you're seeking. Of course, it's always a delight when you come across something unexpected, but it's best to enter with a clear vision of what you need to avoid getting sidetracked or overwhelmed while shopping. "I keep a mental list of items I'm on the lookout for, and then I frequently browse and wait for the right thing to appear," Tarboton says. Steck suggests using the Notes app on your phone (a physical notepad works, too!) to create a list of specific items you need—but stay open to surprises if they come up.

3. Adopt a Tactile Method for Thrift Shopping.
To help you identify quality thrift-store treasures from more cheaply made items, Steck suggests using your sense of touch. "I'm always feeling my way down aisles of clothing to detect silk, linen, and 100% cotton items," she says. Familiarize yourself with the item's material, texture, and weight to help you gauge its value and durability. Even if you snag it at a bargain, you don't want the item to disintegrate as soon as you get home.

Laurey Glenn

4. Visit Thrift Stores Frequently.
Persistence is essential for successful thrifting. New items rotate through thrift stores all the time, so finding the exact thing you've been searching for might take a few tries. "Check back frequently and don't be disheartened if you don't find what you're looking for right away," Tarboton says. "When I'm looking for something specific, I check daily or multiple times a day because new items appear all the time."

5.Customize Your Search When Thrift Shopping Online.
If you're searching for something very specific, online shopping is often more efficient than browsing through various thrift stores. When purchasing secondhand items on platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and eBay, you can usually specify exactly what you're looking for and set alerts for those items. "When new items are listed that match the keywords you set, you'll be notified immediately," Steck says. "Many of my best finds have come to me this way." Ensure you specify the style, brand, or type of item you're looking for, and consider setting up alerts for a range of similar keywords (such as "sofa" as well as "couch") to avoid missing out.

Adam Albright

6. Ensure You're Getting a Fair Price.
A discount from the original price is typically expected for used goods, but prices can vary widely across different thrift stores and secondhand sellers. Tarboton mentions that thrifted items are generally less than half the price of new retail items, and you can often find deals at a fraction of the initial cost. Whatever the price, make sure it's consistent with your perceived value of the item. For Steck, how much she's willing to pay depends on how much she likes the piece and how long she plans to use it.

If you're unsure what price is fair, do a quick Google search to see what similar items (whether used or new) are selling for online. When shopping on resale sites like Poshmark or Facebook Marketplace, you can simply screenshot the listing photo and search for the image in Google, Tarboton says. "It will often pull up the exact item being sold in other areas online so you can compare prices and read more about the item," she explains. And if the price doesn't seem fair, you can always try to negotiate.

7. Confirm Dimensions and Other Attributes Before You Commit.
Return policies at thrift stores can be tricky (if they allow returns at all), so it's best to buy only items you know will fit into your home. Measure your space before you visit the thrift store, and bring a tape measure to check dimensions as you shop. Carefully consider the item's color, material, shape, and other characteristics to ensure it's what you want.

Due diligence is especially important when shopping online because you can't see the item in person before you commit to the purchase. "Make sure you can see very clear photos from multiple angles of the actual item (not stock photos) and that you check the dimensions," Tarboton says. "You can often get a sense from the photos and from communicating with the seller about the environment the item is coming from." Be vigilant for any red flags that might make you regret your purchase.

Laurey Glenn

8. Examine Thrift-Store Treasures Before Taking Them Home.
Small imperfections and light wear can add charm to thrifted items, but significant damage could be a deal-breaker. "I always inspect items for cracks, breaks, and holes and see if it's something I could fix myself or outsource a repair for before purchasing," Steck says. You should also be cautious of issues you can't see, such as musty odors or pest infestations. Give the piece a thorough once-over, and be prepared to walk away if you detect any major problems.

9. Embrace the DIY Spirit.
Some thrift-store treasures just need a little care. As long as the piece is in generally good condition, simple fixes might be all you need to refresh it, Tarboton says. She often gives thrifted light fixtures a new coat of spray paint and replaces the artwork in thrift-store frames—both quick projects that add personalization and a fresh look. Just be realistic about the amount of time and effort you're willing to invest as you decide whether it's worth it.