Thrift stores are a gold mine for unique home decor finds. Whether you’re looking for a few trinkets to add to a vignette or you’re in need of a “new” (at least to you) dining table, you can find all sorts of high-quality, stylish pieces at affordable prices. The next time you head to the…
Ahead, we share how to find home decor at thrift stores and get the most bang for your buck by considering key factors such as material, weight, and design.
How To Find Home Decor at Thrift Stores
1. Look for Solid Wood Pieces
Thrift stores, first and foremost, are about affordability — but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice quality. While there will surely be a collection of cheaply made items, you can also find plenty of solid wood furniture pieces that will restore your faith in finding a good deal. Whether you’re shopping for a desk, bookshelf, or entryway bench, look for pieces constructed from solid wood to ensure quality and durability. If the pieces aren’t the right color, you can always paint or restain them to match your space.
If your solid wood find is painted and you want to restore its natural grain, a heat gun can work wonders to lift away the paint.
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2. Consider the Item’s Weight
Weight is another indicator of quality. Whether it’s a piece of furniture or a ceramic vase, heavier items tend to be better made and more durable. On the other hand, it’s worth considering where you will display your thrift find and if that surface can support the item’s weight. For example, if you have a small shelf and find a solid brass figurine to display, you’ll want to make sure the shelf is structurally sound enough to hold its weight (plus anything else you add).
3. Opt for Timeless Styles
Thrift stores are a great solution for anyone looking to add trendy pieces to their home while on a budget. But if you’re decorating your space with larger, statement-making items, consider timeless styles as a base and then blend them with modern finds. Dining tables, dressers, sideboards, and even some bookshelves are pieces that could potentially last a lifetime. Sourcing them in more classic styles can help you design a space that looks and feels timeless.
4. Don’t Skip Out on the Baskets
Baskets are some of the best items to thrift and are usually heavily discounted at secondhand stores. When shopping for baskets, look for ones made from real wicker in shapes you can utilize for storage. These baskets are great for organizing larger items such as throw blankets, games, and kids’ toys, as well as smaller, everyday essentials such as keys and remotes.
5. The More Durable, the Better
Similar to quality, durability is key. To ensure longevity, choose pieces made from real, solid materials such as iron, brass, sterling silver, crystal glass, wood, and wicker. When it comes to soft furnishings or rugs, consider natural materials such as wool, cotton, leather, linen, or sisal in lieu of synthetics. And while they’re not always an option, unpainted items may be more desirable than painted ones, as paint can chip and peel with wear and tear.
