If you want to get in on the new[ly popularized] craze of thrift store shopping…

I will make sure your are prepared! I have combined my own thrift store experience with tips from this article and this article to bring you...

BULLDOG ON A BUDGET’S 
TOP SEVEN THRIFT STORE TIPS:

1) To get started, visit The Thrift Shopper to find locations in your area and information about various thrift stores. Some of my favorites in Athens are Goodwill, St. Mary’s, and Project Safe.

2) My ideal outfit to wear while thrifting is a tank top and a long skirt. In the likely situation that a dressing room is unavailable, I can try on shirts over my tank top and pants or skirts on under my skirt. Guys, I would just go with a t-shirt and shorts for a similar approach.

3) As mentioned above, you should always try it on before buying it, even if it only costs $1.00. If an item fits you perfectly and it seems too good to be true, check it for holes, stains, missing buttons, broken zippers, and general wear and tear. If it fits and there are no imperfections, BUY IT.

4) Some of the best items to buy are jeans, sweaters, dresses, coats, t-shirts, jewelry, dishware, and home décor. And my personal favorite: books. Paperback children’s chapter books (aka the basis of my future teacher book collection) are just 75 cents at Goodwill, and as cheap as 25 at other thrift stores.

5) You should probably refrain from buying used backpacks, bike helmets, underwear, boots, or tennis shoes. Some of these are for obvious reasons, but read more about the dangers of used bike helmets here and backpacks here.

6) Be patient. Sift through piles of clothes and spend a few hours of your time and you will be justly rewarded.

7) Hand sanitizer. Keep it in your purse, pocket, or car. Apply liberally at the end of your thrift store journey.

Happy thrifting!