More and more people are turning towards thrift stores and second hand shops when looking to buy something they need. This is great news, but regardless of whether you’ve been a regular enthusiast when it comes to preloved items or still have to discover the charms of buying second hand, you might not be aware of all the amazing benefits that thrifting entails.
You Get to Save Money
Well, this one is rather obvious, isn’t it? Items sold at second hand stores are usually more affordable, which automatically means that you get to save money when you buy second hand. However, did you know that you also get more for your money? And we’re not just talking about quantity here. For instance, it’s not uncommon for items sold at second hand stores to be made of top-quality materials or feature manufacturing methods that haven’t been used for years due to the need to provide fast service to customers nowadays. That said, you may as well find a solid wood bed frame or coffee table for less money when shopping second hand than what you’d pay for a cheaply made and possibly rather flimsy piece.
Buying Second Hand Helps the Environment
You might not even consider what difference you can actually make in terms of our environment when looking into second hand items for sale. Essentially, making a piece of furniture or anything else that you might need requires resources on several different levels. It’s not just about the materials used in the production, but there’s also the matter of transport and packaging. With new items manufactured every day, our landfills are continuously growing, thus negatively affecting the environment. By simply purchasing your items at second hand stores, you get to reduce all that waste that damages our planet.
Experience the Excitement of Treasure Hunting
While you may prefer to visit second hand stores only when you specifically need something, that’s not to say you won’t find an amazing deal you haven’t hoped for. In that sense, shopping second hand provides a great level of excitement similar to that of a true treasure hunt. While this is not a place where you may find the latest trends, it’s definitely a hot-spot for rare and unique pieces that can speak to you on a more personal level.
Do Your Part to Support Local Businesses
It’s always amazing to help the local business in your community thrive and grow. After all, when you invest in products/services from a local business, you are literally investing in the betterment of your own lifestyle within that community. What’s more, one of the many great things about smaller local businesses and second hand stores is the fact that they often carry more unique items, perfect for adding more personality. When you decide to buy things second hand, not only do you get to save your own money, but you also support your local community by helping local businesses and possibly even local charities.
Make a Difference in the World
If you prefer mass-produced products, that is perfectly fine. If you, however, choose to shop at second hand stores, you can find highly personal and one-of-a-kind pieces. But buying second hand doesn’t only mean you’ll get to show off your frugal nature and unique taste; it’s also a great opportunity to make a difference in the world, refusing to conform to the standards of the modern consumerist market. Even though you may not feel like you’re making that big of a difference as an individual who buys preloved items, you most certainly are!
To further support your community, keep showing your appreciation for preloved items, and don’t hesitate to go a step further if possible. By contacting us at Habitat for Humanity of Broward ReStore, you can donate items you don’t use anymore. We also provide plenty of volunteer options that you can check out on our website if you’re interested in helping your community even more.
