Second-hand shopping can be fun and affordable, if you know what to look for.
Direct answer
To thrift well, make a list, check items for damage, try clothes on and focus on quality fabrics and brands you know. Buy items that last, such as furniture, books and kitchenware. Avoid safety-critical items like helmets and car seats. Visit often because stock changes.
Before you go
- Write a list so you do not leave with bargains you do not need.
- Set a budget.
- Wear clothes that are easy to try on.
What to check
- Clothes: seams, zips, stains, holes and odours.
- Furniture: wobble, damage, pests.
- Electrical items: ask to test them.
- Books and games: missing pages or pieces.
Good second-hand buys
Coats, jeans, kitchen tools, shelves, books, bikes and children's clothes that will be outgrown fast.
Make the most of it
Learn basic repairs such as sewing a button, or swap handles on furniture. Resell items you no longer wear.
Where Teyro fits
Teyro's How to Save Money on a Low Income course turns this into short lessons you can play in a few minutes a day. It has 50 lessons, and you can start free.
The bottom line
Go regularly, inspect carefully and only buy what you would use.
This is general education, not personal financial advice.
