There are plenty of things I’ll leave behind at Goodwill, even if the price looks tempting. But every now and then, I spot something that makes me stop, take a closer look, and start wondering where I could put it at home.
After enough trips to thrift stores, you begin to recognize which items are worth keeping an eye out for. Some things are expensive to buy new, while others have details and character that are harder to find in regular stores. Price and condition still matter, of course, but if I find one of these items in good shape for a fair price, there’s a good chance it’s coming home with me.
Interesting picture frames
I rarely pay much attention to the picture inside a thrifted frame because I’m interested in the frame itself. Solid wood, ornate metal, carved details, unusual shapes, and oversized styles can cost quite a bit new, but secondhand shops often have them for much less.
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Original artwork
I always give original paintings and drawings a second look, especially if they have an interesting subject, frame, or artist’s signature. Florals, landscapes, portraits, still lifes, and quirky pieces can make a room feel more personal than mass-produced wall art.
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Solid wood furniture
I’m hard to pass up a solid wood dresser, nightstand, coffee table, or side table at a good price. Scratches and dated finishes don’t bother me much because a well-built piece can often be cleaned, refinished, or painted instead of spending hundreds on new furniture.
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Vintage lamps
I make a point of checking the lamp section because older designs often have shapes and materials that are hard to find in newer stores. Brass, ceramic, glass, marble, and unusual vintage bases are worth a look, but I always check the cords and wiring before using an older lamp.
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Brass candlesticks
I rarely leave old brass candlesticks behind if the price is right. They look great on mantels, dining tables, and shelves, and a mismatched group can look even better than a perfectly matching set.
Vintage Pyrex and other kitchenware
I never rush through the kitchen aisle because vintage Pyrex, colorful enamelware, stoneware, and older glassware can turn up among ordinary dishes. Before buying anything, I check for maker’s marks, chips, cracks, deep scratches, and other signs of damage.
Vintage barware
I find it hard to resist old cocktail glasses, decanters, ice buckets, and serving trays when they have an interesting design. They’re useful for hosting guests, look great on a bar cart, and often have more personality than a brand-new matching set.
Handmade quilts
A beautiful handmade quilt can stop me in my tracks, especially if it has an interesting pattern or careful stitching. I check for stains, odors, tears, and other damage, but I’d much rather find a clean quilt in good condition secondhand than buy a new one.
Wool blankets
Good wool blankets can be expensive, so I always check the blanket and linen section. I have a soft spot for plaids and classic patterns, but I check carefully for holes, moth damage, stains, and anything that might be difficult to clean.
Wicker and rattan
Thrift stores often have plenty of baskets, but I pay extra attention to wicker and rattan furniture and decor. Chairs, stools, side tables, magazine racks, baskets, and shelving work in many types of homes, as long as the weaving is intact and the structure is sturdy.
Marble and stone decor
Small marble trays, bookends, bowls, boxes, and other stone accessories always catch my eye. These items can carry surprisingly high price tags at home stores, so finding a genuine stone piece secondhand at a reasonable price feels like a worthwhile buy.
Vintage Christmas decorations
I love looking for older Christmas decorations, especially because vintage pieces often look different from the holiday decor sold today. Glass ornaments, ceramic Christmas trees, blow molds, and other older decorations are worth picking up if they’re in good condition and fairly priced.
Rugs
A good rug can change the feel of an entire room, but well-made ones can be expensive when purchased new. I look for wool, hand-tufted rugs with interesting patterns, but I leave anything with questionable odors, moisture damage, pests, or stains behind.
