NATIONAL THRIFT SHOP DAY | AUGUST 17
On National Thrift Shop Day on August 17th, get ready for some bargain shopping! Nearly every town in the United States offers a thrift shop or second-hand store. So there’s no excuse not to celebrate.
#ThriftShopDay
A thrift shop (also known as a thrift store, charity shop, hospice shop, second-hand shop, consignment or resale shop) is a retail establishment that sells gently used items. Typically, charitable organizations run the stores to raise money according to the organization’s stated charitable purpose. The organization may also use some of the items to help others get back on their feet after a disaster or when times have been difficult.
The public donates most items, while volunteers staff the stores. Since the items are donated, prices are adjusted to a lower cost to the buyers.
In a consignment shop, people bring their used items in to sell. When the item sells, the consignment shop keeps a percentage of the sales.
Everyone wants to save money. More and more, people are shopping at thrift stores. Clothing, furniture, and household goods are great finds among the other hidden treasures within the walls of thrift shops across the country. To some, shopping at a thrift store isn’t even about the price (that’s just a bonus!), but instead, it’s about the adventure of finding vintage and antique items.
While thrift shopping helps the budget, it also helps the environment. Every item purchased from a thrift shop is one less item in a landfill. It’s recycling at its best!
Other Benefits of Thrifting:
- Redecorate on a budget – Thrifty shoppers know styles come and go. Find the one you’re looking for at the thrift store.
- Dress for less – No matter the occasion, #CelebrateEveryDay with styles galore!
- Enhance your budget – By saving money thrift shopping, you’ll have more money for more important things.
- Expand your library – Books of all kinds find their way to the thrift stores.
HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL THRIFT SHOP DAY
Seek some specials at the Thrift Shops in your area. If you have items you no longer use, consider donating them. Check your local thrift shops for deals and make a day of shopping with a friend. Another option, find out how you can volunteer.
Use #ThriftShopDay to post on social media.
NATIONAL THRIFT SHOP DAY HISTORY
We were unable to find the origin of National Thrift Shop Day.
Thrift Shop FAQ
Q. When is the best time to shop at a thrift store?
A. Many claim Monday and Tuesday are best because lots of donations are made on the weekends. However, thrift stores still need to sort through the items first. That takes time. However, shopping early and often might be your best options for the best finds.
Q. Are there items I shouldn’t buy at a thrift store?
A. Car seats are probably the number one item you should never buy at a thrift store. A car seat may have been in an accident and damaged. They also expire. Other obvious items include underwear, bathing suits, and makeup. For a complete list, visit Country Living.
Q. Should I wash clothing I buy at thrift stores?
A. Any article of clothing you buy should be washed before wearing (with the exception of anything that requires dry cleaning). Most thrift stores do not wash clothes before putting them out for sale. While the donors may have washed them, the clothing may have sat in boxes for months or years before arriving at the store.