Thrift stores often hold more treasures than you might imagine, from fine jewelry to unique pieces of art to stunning home goods. There are some items at thrift stores and flea markets that you shouldn’t miss. Here are 25 of his sensational items from these stores that you can take home with you.
1. Vinyl records
One of the top things to buy once you find what you want is vinyl records. If you find a record by your favorite old artist, like Prince or Amy Winehouse, don’t hesitate to buy it. It is rarely printed these days. You may never find the same record again.
2. Sterling silver
Sterling silver may not be the flashiest type of metal, but it is one of the most durable and long-lasting. It resists discoloration and discoloration, so it can withstand long-term use. Whether it’s a bracelet or a cutlery set, if you find a piece of sterling silver that you like, be sure to pick it up.
3. Antique mirror
Mirrors can be very expensive when new, and modern ones are often made from cheaper materials. However, antique and vintage mirrors are often more luxurious and of higher quality. Throw away your cheap mirrors and look for great mirrors at thrift stores to take your home to the next level.
4. Rattan and rattan
Whether it’s a chair or a basket, rattan and rattan products are valuable. Many people love the homey yet natural look of these products, but they can cost a significant amount of money to buy new. Perfect for porches, sunrooms, and even bedrooms.
5. Lamps and lights
Like mirrors, lamps and lights can be very expensive to buy new and often don’t have the unique charm of older lighting. Don’t second guess yourself when you find a lamp or light fixture that speaks to your soul. Take it home.
6. Vintage art
Art in stores like Target and TJ Maxx can feel cold and commercial. Buying art directly from talented artists is great, but it can be very expensive. Add a special aura to your space by incorporating vintage art from thrift stores and flea markets into your home.
7. Pottery and porcelain products
Like sterling silver products, ceramic and porcelain products can be very expensive when purchased new. However, if you’re lucky, you might be able to find a beautiful ceramic bowl or porcelain vase for just a penny or a dollar. Keep an eye out for these great items on your next thrifting trip.
8. Pyrex
Pyrex may not sound exciting, but old Pyrex dishes and containers are simply wonderful. If you see something with Pyrex written on it, scoop it up before someone else picks it up. Modern Pyrex is still great, but it’s expensive and doesn’t have the nice vintage flair of thrift store Pyrex.
9. Pine furniture
Pine is one of the most durable and attractive types of wood, but it is also expensive. A quality pine dresser can cost hundreds of dollars, but at your local flea market you can find one for as little as $50. You can tell it’s pine by its soft, nutty color and dramatic grain pattern.
10. Stoneware and studio pottery
Even if you don’t know how to make pottery, never miss out on beautiful stoneware and handmade pottery at thrift stores. These creations are fascinating and one-of-a-kind, so take this baby home with you! It may even have your initials on the bottom, making it even more unique and special.
11. Coffee table book
From Target to Amazon to Barnes & Noble, you can buy coffee table books just about anywhere. But the coffee table books you find at thrift stores and flea markets are great because they’re heavily damaged and you can find books on wild topics that you can’t find anywhere else.
12. Scandinavian furniture
Scandinavian furniture, with its clean lines, simple silhouette, and high-quality construction, is currently attracting a lot of attention. If you find Scandinavian furniture at your local flea market or thrift store, grab it right away.
13. Artificial Christmas Tree
Artificial Christmas trees are made to last 10 years, if not longer, but people often grow tired of them after just two years. So they donate a perfectly good tree and sit there waiting for you to come to the rescue. It’s significantly more affordable than buying a new tree.
14. Vintage novels
Apart from coffee table books, which are mostly for display, thrift stores often have collections of vintage novels. If you look carefully, you might come across a super old book, or if you’re lucky, a first edition!
15. Designer clothes
Most people know that when they see a high-end designer name at a thrift store, they need to take it home. Although these items are typically more expensive than other used items, they are still a bargain compared to buying new.
16. Name your branded bags and shoes
In addition to designer clothing, look out for handbags, wallets, shoes, and other accessories from name brands. Shoes in particular can be very expensive, so if you find a high-quality pair that’s perfect for you, be sure to get it.
17. Fine China
Believe it or not, you can find fine china at flea markets, antique stores, and thrift stores. You don’t have to spend a fortune on fine porcelain if you’re willing to explore some of these stores. You may find a complete collection of plates, bowls, and cups.
18. Hand-knitted blankets and throws
Similar to studio pottery, hand-knitted or crocheted blankets and throws are unique and a lovely way to make your place feel homely and cozy. You can find amazing patterns and bright colors that you can’t buy at regular home goods stores.
19. Antique jewelry
From dazzling engagement rings to simple earrings to gorgeous necklaces, antique jewelry from flea markets and thrift stores is truly enchanting. These pieces are more affordable, but contain a mysterious history that makes them even more appealing.
20. Cast iron
Steaks made in cast iron pans are unparalleled, but cast iron is very expensive. Seasoning these pots properly also takes a lot of time and effort. Stunning cast iron pots sold at thrift stores are already well seasoned and can be much more affordable.
21.DVDs and CDs
Like vinyl records, DVDs and CDs are a thing of the past, and very few are manufactured today. If you still have a CD player or DVD setup, thrift stores are a great place to find old classic items that are hard to find these days. There is also a CD player and DVD player in the store.
22. Unique fabric
If you love sewing, there’s no better place to find quirky and charming fabrics than at flea markets and thrift stores. From fine silks to whimsical patterns and elegant colors, the fabrics found in antique stores are irresistibly beautiful.
23. Sports equipment
Need a new pair of ice skates or a baseball bat? Before you buy hundreds of items at your local sports store, check out thrift stores first. They often store hockey sticks, soccer pads, cleats, and other sports equipment, which are old but in good condition.
24. Bookend
If you don’t use your Kindle much, you probably have a glut of books at home like I do. Since you haven’t built a nice library yet, you need bookends to keep your books in place. Thrift stores and flea markets are my favorite places to find cute and quirky things.
25. Quilt
In addition to hand-knitted blankets and throws, you might also find cute quilts at your favorite thrift store. Again, these are unique and an easy and lovely way to make your home cozy and inviting. We recommend dry cleaning before use.
Julia Fisher is a writer and editor who has loved reading and writing since she was a child. She earned a bachelor’s degree in clinical counseling psychology from Houghton College and is pursuing a master’s degree in marriage and family therapy from Northcentral University. She is interested in the psychology behind fandom and how people are influenced and shaped by the media they consume. Julia is a Tolkien enthusiast, and her geeky repertoire includes Dungeons and Dragons, Pokemon, her card collecting, and RPGs in general. When she’s not working, Julia can be found in the kitchen watching Bills football or working on an unpublished novel series. She lives in Buffalo, New York with her two chocolate labs and hundreds of books.
