Saving money doesn’t mean sacrificing quality, especially with household essentials. Some things are better bought used—they cost less, work just as well, and help cut down on waste. If you want to save while sticking to quality, here are ten household items worth buying secondhand.
Books
Who buys brand-new books when there are shelves of perfectly good ones waiting for you secondhand? Used books not only cost a fraction of the price but they also come with character—maybe even some fun notes scribbled in the margins.
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Whether you love thrillers, self-help books, or rare finds, thrift stores, garage sales, and online platforms are goldmines. Look out for loose spines, water damage, or heavy highlighting. Bonus tip: library sales have amazing deals too.
Furniture
Buying used furniture can save you hundreds, and you’ll often find better quality. Mass-produced pieces tend to be flimsy, but older furniture—especially anything made of solid wood—was built to last.
Coffee tables, chairs, bookshelves, and even dressers are easy to spruce up with a good cleaning or a coat of paint. Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and estate sales are your best friends here. Look out for cracks, wobbly legs, or funky smells before buying.
Small Kitchen Appliances
Why spend big money on a blender or toaster when you can snag one for a steal? Small appliances like food processors or coffee makers show up constantly at thrift stores, many in excellent shape. People upgrade or move and offload perfectly functional items all the time.
Just plug them in before you buy to ensure they work, or ask for photos and videos on resale platforms like OfferUp. Skip anything with frayed cords or signs of heavy wear.
Cookware
Non-stick pans and cookie sheets lose their appeal quickly when bought new—they scratch and chip anyway. But stainless steel or cast iron cookware? That stuff’s built to last, and it works just as well on its second (or even tenth) owner.
Thrift stores and estate sales are goldmines for these. Check for excessive rust or warping, and you’ll be golden. Bonus: older cookware often has unique designs you won’t find in stores today.
Tools
Tools—whether for DIY projects or basic home repairs—are a no-brainer to buy used. Hammers, wrenches, or even power tools are usually way cheaper secondhand, especially if you’re looking at flea markets or pawn shops.
Hand tools rarely break, so rust is the main thing you’ll want to check for. With power tools, make sure to test the motor and look for any frayed cords. Even if something needs a small part replaced, it’s still way cheaper than buying new.
Baby Clothing and Gear
Kids grow fast, and baby items are infamous wallet-drainers when bought new. Gently used baby clothes, bassinets, or high chairs can be just as good—often used for such a short time they’re practically new. Look on mom groups, Facebook Marketplace, or consignment shops.
Always double-check fabric for stains and straps for wear, and avoid older models that may not meet current safety standards. That stroller you’ve been eyeing? Someone else is probably selling it for half the cost.
Sporting Goods
Starting a new sport doesn’t mean you need to wipe out your budget. Items like bikes, tennis rackets, weights, or skis are often lightly used by people who gave up their new “hobby” after a few weeks. Sporting consignment stores, garage sales, and secondhand shops are full of deals.
For bikes, check the tires and frame for wear and make sure moving parts feel solid. For weights or rackets, rust or damaged grips are what you’ll want to avoid.
Musical Instruments
Instruments are pricey investments, and buying new isn’t always better—especially for beginners. For most instruments, secondhand can often get you a quality piece without the sticker shock.
Pawn shops, music stores, and even local classifieds are great places to look. Just make sure to test for sound quality and functionality before committing. A couple of scratches don’t affect how it plays, but missing strings or warped bodies can.
Media (DVDs, Vinyl Records, Video Games)
Entertainment doesn’t have to be expensive. DVDs, vinyl records, and video games are better bought used because they’re inexpensive and often hard to find new anyway. Whether you’re adding to your record collection or grabbing movie nights on the cheap, used options usually look and work fine.
Thrift stores and online buy/sell groups often have a wide selection. Skip media with excessive scratches—and remember to clean vinyl with a soft cloth before playing.
Holiday Decorations
Holiday decorations—whether for Christmas, Halloween, or any festive season—are premium items to snag secondhand. People often purge these after moving or redecorating, and you can find nearly-new items for a fraction of the cost.
From wreaths and ornaments to lights and table settings, thrift stores and yard sales are your best bet. Check for broken bulbs or irreparable damage on delicate pieces. Used decorations help you save while making your holiday season effortlessly festive.
Buying Used is a Win
Buying secondhand isn’t just cheaper—it’s a smart move. You save money, reduce waste, and keep good stuff out of landfills. It also makes treating yourself easier when you’ve already saved a bit. With some patience and a quick quality check, you can find items that feel brand new. Next time you shop, skip the “new” section and discover the gems others left behind.
Stop Being Cheap – These 17 Items Are Worth the Splurge
We all love saving money, but sometimes going for the cheaper option isn’t the best move. As the saying goes, “you get what you pay for,” so here are 17 things that are totally worth splurging on. Investing a little more in these items can lead to better quality, greater satisfaction, and long-term savings in the end.
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11 Insider Tips for Thrifting Like a Pro
Whether you’re a seasoned thrifter or a newbie, knowing some insider tips can greatly enhance your thrifting experience. By mastering a few key techniques, you’ll be able to efficiently navigate stores and discover the best bargains. So get ready to enhance your skills and find incredible treasures without breaking the bank.
Read it Here: 11 Insider Tips for Thrifting Like a Pro