It’s no secret that you spend less when thrifting. What others may not know is that going from store to store to find one-of-a-kind pieces is one of the biggest thrills a thrifter can ever have. Putting on a limited-edition designer garment or accessories feels extra rewarding when you get complimented and tell people you found it through thrifting. *AD

Additionally, thrifting is good for the environment too because you’re already reusing an item. A beginner may feel overwhelmed or not know what to do when they start, so useful thrifting tips always come in handy.

However, before you start your secondhand-shopping spree, it’s best to do a closet cleanup first. Doing so allows you to take note of the clothes you already have and what you’re no longer using. You can separate your items in separate piles for throwing out, for donating, or for selling. The easiest way to earn extra income is to open an online shop where you can put your preloved clothing, shoes, and accessories for sale.

Here are the tips and tricks to know on your next thrifting trip.

Know Where to Shop

You can’t very well go thrifting if you don’t know which stores to hit up. If you want to make the most out of your trip, it is necessary to conduct prethrifting research to know the basics. Where is the right place to shop? When do restocks happen? And finally, which clothing items and accessories should you look for?

Set a budget for this activity and head to the place where you feel like you’ll have more bang for your buck. Most people will tell you to bargain-shop in posh areas because that means having designer items. However, those secondhand stores often have higher places, and any seasoned thrift shopper can tell you that the best pieces they have were found in less-fancy places.

The best way to find quality items is to be there on the day the store restocks the shelves. Typically, many thrift stores don’t restock daily. Ask an employee when they’re restocking so you can get the first pick of the whole lot. While you’re chatting with them, make sure to inquire about discount days as well.

While looking for cheap stuff is fun, it’s best to thrift with a purpose. If you’re looking for a new coat for the upcoming cooler seasons, try thrifting it instead. If you need a certain piece for an outfit, you can head over to your local Goodwill store for preloved stuff.

Learn How to Scan Quickly

If you always take your sweet time perusing clothes hanging from a rack, you will be inside the store for hours. A good ability to develop is learning how to scan quickly using your eyes and hands. You can slow-walk down the aisle to scan on the skirts, pants, shirts, or coats and pull out the stuff you think fits your style.

Always Use Cash

It can be tempting to go over your budget, seeing as how clothes cost way less than they would at the mall. A tip to follow when thrifting is to stick to your predetermined budget. Additionally, most thrift stores don’t accept debit and credit cards.

Launder Thrifted Clothes Thoroughly

Always make it a procedure to launder thrifted clothes before wearing them. Make sure all of them are washing-machine-safe before tossing them in as some more delicate garments may require only dry cleaning or hand washing. You should always sanitize shoes and accessories as well.

Get Clothes Altered or Learn to Sew

Clothes should always fit you, no matter if you got them from the thrift store or bought them new. If you find a jacket that you love but is a little big for you, get it fitted. You can also learn to sew so it’s cheaper to repair ill-fitting thrifted clothes. However, you should take precautions for designer clothing.

Do you have thrifting tips you want to share? Write them in the comments section below.