Thrifting furniture is an affordable, sustainable, and creative way to furnish your home. Unlike buying brand-new, when thrift shopping for furniture, you can find hidden gems and pieces you may not have been expecting. In addition to being more budget-friendly, buying furniture from thrift stores also helps reduce waste, making it an eco-friendly choice.
Whether you're an experienced thrifter or just trying out secondhand shopping, these five tips will help you find high-quality furniture, uncover one-of-a-kind treasures, and make the most out of every Goodwill visit.
1. Know What You Need for Your Space
While having an idea of what you’re looking for can make your shopping more efficient, it’s a good idea to be open to unexpected finds. Be sure to take measurements of the space you’re furnishing, and keep an idea of the types of pieces you're after (side table, dining chairs, desk, etc.). At the same time, have an open mind, as you might come across something fabulous that you didn’t expect.
Insider Tip: Bring a measuring tape to make sure your furniture finds will fit in your space.
2. Check for Quality Materials
When shopping for furniture, you want to make sure to focus on the materials. Solid wood and metal are generally more durable than particleboard or plastic. Also, look for signs of quality craftsmanship, such as sturdy frames and well-maintained finishes.
Older furniture tends to be made of sturdier materials and is built to last longer than many modern pieces. In addition to affordability, these items often come with character.
Insider Tip: While it’s important to inspect for damages, don’t be put off by surface scratches or minor imperfections. A quick touch-up with paint, polish, or sandpaper can transform a piece.
3. Be On the Lookout for Vintage Pieces
Not all thrifted items carry the same historical charm or value. Vintage pieces add a touch of uniqueness to your décor, but it helps if you know what you’re looking for. Look for makers’ marks, unusual designs, or distinctive craftsmanship that can give you an idea on a piece's age and possible value. When thrifting, you never know what you’re going to find!
Insider Tip: Familiarize yourself with vintage furniture styles like mid-century modern or French provincial to identify high-value finds.
4. Think About DIY Potential
Sometimes, the furniture you find at a Goodwill thrift store has amazing potential, even with an outdated look or finish. Can you reupholster that armchair with a new fabric? Does that dresser need a fresh coat of paint? Repurposing and customizing furniture pieces is part of the fun of thrifting.
You don’t need to be a professional to upgrade a piece. Step-by-step guides on YouTube or Pinterest can teach you how to give new life to your thrifted furniture finds.
5. Timing Can Matter
Goodwill restocks items frequently, and the best pieces can be snatched up quickly. Shopping in the morning or on weekdays can work to your advantage as thrift stores may be less crowded and newly added items are available.
Additionally, some stores have discount days or rewards programs.. Follow your favorite thrift stores on social media to stay in the loop for exclusive discounts. Additionally, Goodwill has $1 Sunday Color Sale days and a rewards program. Follow Goodwill of the Finger Lakes on social media (Facebook | Instagram) to stay in the loop on exclusive offers and events.
Why Thrifting Furniture is Worth It
Shopping for furniture at thrift stores offers an opportunity to own something unique. Vintage and secondhand furniture is often made with craftsmanship and materials that are hard to find in modern, mass-produced pieces.
Thrifting is also environmentally friendly. By giving furniture a second life, you’re reducing waste and contributing to a more sustainable lifestyle.
Are you ready to decorate sustainably and uniquely? Start exploring Goodwill thrift stores throughout the Finger Lakes region and don’t forget your measuring tape and open mind!