Why Second-Hand is Awesome

As a child, my mom used to take us shopping at local second-hand shops, including Goodwill and thrift stores. I remember feeling so embarrassed going into these places and hoping that nobody I knew would see me! I never understood why we went to those places. We weren’t poor. We definitely had money to buy new things. So why were we shopping there?

Then I got older and started shopping at those second-hand places myself, even though I had money to go splurge at a department store if I wanted. So why the 180 degree change? Because I realized the second-hand shopping is awesome.

The first reason I like second-hand: it saves so much money.

I can go into the Goodwill with $20 and come out with 3 shirts and 2 pairs of pants. And I can usually find pretty nice stuff. Contrary to what people might think, it’s not all ugly discards and raggedy clothes. There’s actually quite a nice assortment of gently used, clean clothing at second-hand stores. OR, I could take that same $20 into a department store and come out with maybe 1 shirt. I don’t know about you, but I like to get more bang for my buck.

I don’t always shop second-hand, but I at least make it a priority to consider this route if I am in need of a new item. This can be anything from clothes to a new piece of furniture. One of the coolest feelings is to see the wide-eyed shock in someone’s eyes when they complement your outfit and you say “thanks, thrift store!”

The second reason to like second-hand: it reduces waste

When you buy second-hand items, whether it be clothing, small appliances, furniture etc, you are reducing the amount of product that potentially ends up in landfills. Also by purchasing second-hand, you help to collectively drive down the demand for new items being produced, which helps the environment.

The final reason to support second-hand: it makes money for you!

Now you know that buying second-hand can save you lots of cash, but did you know it can also help you earn more money? Thanks to the internet, it’s easier than ever to turn your unwanted items into cash. Sites like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace allow you to be the seller in the second-hand transaction and put more money in your wallet. I’ve personally had great luck with selling items I no longer use on these sites. It’s a win-win because I make money and get to declutter my home at the same time!

We all shop, so why not protect your wallet and reduce waste when you do? Go second-hand!