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New Year, New Finds: Why January is the Best Time to Go Thrifting

by Clarissa McNeill and Elissa Mitchell

For many, the new year brings a wave of resolutions, like decluttering. For those looking for a fresh start in the new year, January marks a time of purging your closet and removing clothes and household items you no longer want or need, making room for all the new things you got during the holidays. 

An Increase in Second-Hand Clothes and Household Items

As people clean out their homes after the holiday season, thrift stores, like Goodwill, see a huge influx of donations, making this annual tradition an exciting opportunity for savvy secondhand shoppers. From barely worn sweaters to “used” clothes that still have tags, January is a great time to score some amazing secondhand items for a fraction of the original price, while also supporting your local community. Donating to and shopping at thrift stores also helps to support sustainability by recycling clothing and household products.

Support the Community by Donating Gently Used Clothes

Not only does donating gently used clothing and other items feel good by decluttering your home and giving these items a second chance, but it also counts as a charitable donation that you can write off on your taxes this April! Many thrift stores also give back to their local communities. As a non-profit, proceeds from our Goodwill thrift stores go to support our community programs: 211/LIFE LINE, Workforce Development, Vision Services, and the Good Neighbor Program. We help the Rochester, Syracuse, and Finger Lakes regions by providing training, social services, and employment opportunities to those with disabilities or with barriers to employment. By donating and shopping at our local thrift stores, you can help support these services and make a positive impact in your community.

Great Thrift-Store Finds

The fresh inventory means there are new items to discover every time you walk into your favorite thrift spot. Brand name and designer items, trendy pieces, vintage finds - they all shine a little brighter against the post-holiday donation haul. While you may be decluttering at home, now is the perfect time to scope out anything you may be missing from your home and closet or replace items that no longer work with your lifestyle. With some luck and patience, you can score great pieces that look brand new. 

Whether you are a seasoned thrifter or this is your first time, head to your local thrift store before January is over to shop great deals and go home with new-to-you items without breaking the bank. Happy thrifting!