Thrifting Tips for Moms on a Budget (and My Secret Way to Thrift Without Leaving Home!)
Welcome back, friends! Today I’m talking all about one of my favorite things: thrifting. As a mom of two little ones (three and under!), I don’t always get a ton of time to shop, but when I do, I love finding treasures secondhand.
Let’s be honest—the economy is wild right now (don’t even get me started on the price of eggs). While we can’t thrift for groceries, we can thrift for so many amazing deals for our homes, wardrobes, and families. Over the years I’ve learned some tried-and-true tips to thrift successfully—thanks in part to my mom, the queen of thrifting (she once scored a Canada Goose jacket for $1—yes, you read that right!).
So let’s dive into my favorite thrifting tips, including one that doesn’t even require stepping foot in a thrift store.
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1. Go in With a Plan (and a List!)
The best way to set yourself up for thrift success is to go in with a plan. Without one, it’s easy to get overwhelmed—or worse—leave with a cart full of things you don’t actually need.
I keep a running list in my phone of things I’m looking for. Sometimes I’ll even save inspiration photos on Pinterest to remind me of my style goals. Having a clear idea of what you’re hunting for makes thrifting way more enjoyable and budget-friendly.
2. Don’t Skip the Men’s Section
Ladies, listen up—the men’s section is gold. I’ve found linen shirts, high-quality basics, and jeans that fit beautifully. Here’s why I love it:
Better prices: Men’s clothes are often cheaper than women’s.
Higher quality: More natural fibers like cotton and linen, less polyester.
Great jeans: If you’re tall like me, men’s inseams (32–34") are a lifesaver. With slim cuts becoming more popular, men’s jeans often fit women comfortably.
Bonus tip: bring a flexible sewing tape measure with you. Knowing your waist, inseam, and basic measurements makes thrifting faster—especially when you’re juggling kids and can’t try things on.
3. Look for Items You Can Repurpose
One of my favorite things about thrifting is finding items that just need a little love. For example, I recently found a shelf that was a bit banged up. With some paint I already had at home, I gave it new life—and now it’s the perfect place for my cookbooks.
When thrifting, think creatively:
Can that dresser be sanded and painted?
Could that oversized shirt be styled as a beach cover-up?
Would that basket work as toy storage?
Repurposing stretches your budget and makes your finds one-of-a-kind.
4. Shop Local Stores for the Best Deals
While Goodwill and larger chains can be fun, I find the best deals at local thrift shops. Many have weekly sales, discount days, or half-off weekends. For example, I recently scored a vintage baptismal gown for just $5 during a weekend sale!
Local shops also tend to support better causes in the community, so your money does even more good.
5. My Secret Tip: Thrift Without Leaving Home
As promised—my final tip doesn’t even involve stepping foot in a store: online auctions.
Estate sale auctions in your area can be goldmines for unique vintage items, furniture, and home goods. Because many people don’t want the hassle of pickup, big items like couches or bookshelves often sell cheap. If you’re willing to borrow or rent a truck, you can save a fortune.
I really like CTbids and HIbid, but you might have other local companies that are prominent in your area.
We’ve even scored firewood at a fraction of the cost through local estate auctions. The trick is to watch the items you’re interested in and place your bids close to closing time when competition heats up.
Final Thoughts
Thrifting is one of my favorite ways to save money, find unique treasures, and live more sustainably. Whether you’re shopping for clothes, furniture, or something fun for your home, these tips will help you thrift smarter.
And remember—share your own thrifting tips in the comments! In today’s economy, we could all use the extra help.
Happy thrifting, friends. 🌿