15 Items You Should Thrift & 10 You Should Always Buy New

Monica Gray - June 5, 2025

Thrifting has transformed from a niche hobby into a mainstream lifestyle choice. Shoppers now flock to thrift stores and online resale platforms, drawn by the thrill of discovery, sustainable living, and significant savings.
Choosing secondhand items not only saves money but also reduces waste and lessens your carbon footprint. However, not everything is safe or wise to buy used.
In this guide, we’ll explore which items are smart to thrift—and which you should always purchase new for health, safety, or longevity reasons.

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1. Furniture

Thrift stores are treasure troves for quality furniture, especially if you love solid wood pieces or unique vintage designs. Unlike many modern, mass-produced items, older furniture often boasts superior craftsmanship and durability.
With a little creativity, you can refinish or reupholster thrifted finds to perfectly match your style. Plus, secondhand furniture is typically much more affordable than buying new. According to The Spruce, these pieces can last for generations—making thrifting both a smart and sustainable choice.

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2. Books

Thrift stores are a haven for book lovers. You’ll often find shelves packed with everything from timeless classics to recent bestsellers—even valuable textbooks—all at a fraction of retail prices.
Shopping secondhand lets you explore new genres or build your collection without breaking the bank. According to Book Riot, buying used books is not only budget-friendly but also helps give beloved stories a second life.

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3. Home Decor

Thrift stores offer an ever-changing selection of home decor treasures—from vintage vases and quirky art to elegant picture frames. These unique finds add personality and charm to your space, often at a fraction of what you’d pay for new decor.
According to Apartment Therapy, shopping secondhand is a smart way to create a home that feels curated and original, without overspending.

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4. Cookware

Thrift shops are excellent places to score high-quality cookware like cast iron pans and glass bakeware. These items are known for their durability and can often outperform many new, lower-quality versions. With a little cleaning or seasoning, thrifted cookware can be restored to its former glory. As Epicurious notes, secondhand kitchen tools are a budget-friendly way to equip your kitchen with reliable essentials.

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5. Clothing

Thrift stores are a goldmine for gently used clothing, from basic tees to designer labels. High-quality jeans, jackets, and dresses are often available in excellent condition, letting you refresh your wardrobe without overspending.
Not only can you find unique styles, but you’ll also help reduce textile waste. Goodwill highlights that secondhand shopping is a smart, sustainable way to score trendy or classic pieces—sometimes even with tags still attached—for a fraction of the original price.

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6. Costume Jewelry

Thrift shops are filled with unique costume jewelry at unbeatable prices. From vintage brooches to bold statement necklaces, these accessories let you express your style without breaking the bank.
According to The Zoe Report, shopping secondhand for costume jewelry is the perfect way to discover one-of-a-kind pieces that add flair to any outfit.

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7. Photograph Frames

7. Picture Frames — A charming assortment of vintage thrift store frames, creatively repurposed and arranged in an eclectic wall display. | Image source: Photo by Tim Gouw on Pexels

Thrifted photograph frames are a smart buy if you enjoy DIY projects. You can easily repurpose, paint, or refinish them to match your decor for much less than buying new. As HGTV suggests, vintage frames offer endless opportunities for creativity and customization.

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8. Dishes and Glassware

Thrift stores are a great source for eclectic dishes and glassware—perfect for those who appreciate mismatched sets or need replacements for lost items.
You’ll often find high-quality brands and unique patterns at a fraction of the cost.
According to The Kitchn, secondhand dishes and glasses can add charm and character to your table without straining your budget.

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9. Board Games & Puzzles

Thrift stores often stock board games and puzzles that are barely used—sometimes even in their original packaging. These finds are usually complete and provide hours of affordable fun for families or game nights. USA Today suggests always checking for missing pieces before purchasing, making thrifted games a smart, budget-friendly buy.

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10. Sporting Goods

Thrift stores and resale shops are excellent places to find sporting goods like baseball gloves, golf clubs, or bicycles in great condition. Many items have seen little use and are available at a fraction of their original cost. REI Co-op recommends buying secondhand gear as a budget-friendly way to try new sports or upgrade equipment without overspending.

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11. Vinyl Records

Thrift stores are a haven for vinyl record enthusiasts. You can discover affordable albums, classic hits, and even rare collectibles with some digging. According to Rolling Stone, thrifting for vinyl is a fun way to expand your collection and stumble upon unexpected gems—sometimes for just a few dollars.

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12. Picture Frames

Thrift stores are full of picture frames that can be easily upcycled or repurposed for a personalized look. With a little paint or creativity, you can create custom decor for your home. As HGTV shares, vintage frames offer endless opportunities for stylish, budget-friendly DIY projects.

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13. Lamps & Lighting

Thrift shops are fantastic places to find vintage lamps and unique lighting fixtures that bring character to any room. Older lamps often feature solid construction and timeless design, making them stand out from mass-produced options. With a simple rewiring for safety, you can enjoy both function and flair at a bargain price. According to Better Homes & Gardens, thrifted lighting is a smart way to illuminate your space stylishly and affordably.

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14. Tools

Many thrift stores carry hand tools and even some power tools that are built to last and available at a significant discount. Classic brands and sturdy construction make secondhand tools a reliable choice for DIYers and homeowners alike. As Family Handyman points out, buying used tools is a smart way to stretch your budget while still getting quality equipment.

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15. Glasses Frames

15. Picture Frames — Charming custom glasses sit on this woman’s face with character and eclectic style. | Image source: Photo by Photo By: Kaboompics.com on Pexels

Glasses frames are a classic thrifting find, perfect for creative makeovers. With a coat of paint or a little customization, you can easily make them suit your face. Glasses frames are endlessly versatile for DIY glasses or unique facial accents.

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16. Mattresses

When it comes to mattresses, it’s always best to buy new. Used mattresses can harbor dust mites, allergens, and even bed bugs, making them a risky and unhygienic choice. Consumer Reports warns that the potential for hidden pests and bacteria far outweighs any cost savings. For your health and peace of mind, investing in a new mattress is the safest option.

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17. Underwear & Socks

Underwear and socks are items you should always buy new for hygiene and comfort reasons. Used undergarments can harbor bacteria and are difficult to sanitize thoroughly. As noted by Healthline, buying new ensures your health and keeps you comfortable—making it a non-negotiable when it comes to thrift shopping.

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18. Helmets

When it comes to bike and sports helmets, always choose new. Helmets degrade with age and can suffer hidden damage that’s not visible on the outside, compromising their ability to protect you in an accident. The Bike Helmet Safety Institute strongly advises against buying used helmets, as your safety should never be a gamble—invest in new for full peace of mind.

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19. Cribs & Car Seats

Cribs and car seats should always be purchased new to guarantee your child’s safety. Safety standards for these products evolve frequently, and older models may not meet current regulations or could be subject to recalls. Used items may also have hidden damage or missing parts that compromise their effectiveness. The Consumer Product Safety Commission emphasizes that only new cribs and car seats offer the most reliable protection for your little ones.

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20. Shoes (Certain Types)

While some shoes are fine to thrift, athletic and running shoes are best bought new. These shoes lose their support and cushioning over time, even if they still look good on the outside. Used footwear can also harbor bacteria and mold, leading to potential foot problems. Runner’s World recommends investing in new athletic shoes to ensure proper support, comfort, and hygiene.

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21. Makeup & Skincare

Makeup and skincare products should always be purchased new. Cosmetics can harbor bacteria or be expired, increasing the risk of irritation or infection—especially around your eyes and lips. The FDA cautions that buying used or expired beauty products is never worth the risk to your skin’s health and safety.

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22. Hats & Helmets

Hats and helmets can trap sweat, oils, and bacteria from previous owners, making them less than ideal to buy secondhand. For hygiene reasons, it’s safest to purchase these items new. Verywell Health notes that new hats and helmets will keep your scalp clean—and your mind at ease.

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23. Nonstick Cookware

Nonstick pans and cookware should always be bought new. Over time, the nonstick coating can become scratched or start to flake off, which may release potentially harmful chemicals into your food. According to The Kitchn, it’s safest to replace nonstick cookware at the first sign of wear. Purchasing new ensures your cookware is safe and performing as intended.

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24. Bath Towels & Linens

Bath towels and bed linens are best bought new to ensure cleanliness and comfort. Used towels and sheets can harbor hidden bacteria, allergens, or even mold that is difficult to fully remove. Good Housekeeping recommends investing in fresh linens for peace of mind—and a more luxurious, hygienic experience every day.

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25. Personal Care Appliances

Personal care appliances—such as electric razors, hairdryers, and toothbrushes—should always be purchased new. These items come into close contact with your skin and mouth, making hygiene a top priority. Consumer Reports advises against buying these products secondhand due to potential bacteria buildup and electrical safety concerns.
When it comes to self-care, investing in new appliances ensures both cleanliness and peace of mind.

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