Thursday, November 28, 2024

Secondhand Shopping: saving money on kids clothing and toys

 



When it comes to buying your children clothing and toys it can be a really big hit on a families budget but you can find some really good quality secondhand clothing and toys for your children. 


Below I have put together some practical tips for finding good quality secondhand clothes and toys for children. 


1. Thrift stores & consignment shops


Visit local thrift stores, consignment shops, and secondhand stores regularly. They often have a rotating selection of gently used clothes and toys. Examine items for wear and tear, stains, or broken parts. Look for brands known for durability.


2. Online marketplaces


Use platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, Poshmark, or Mercari. These sites often have filters to find items in specific conditions (like “new with tags”). Make sure to check the seller’s ratings and reviews before purchasing.


3. Garage sales & estate sales


Early mornings often have the best selection, but later in the day, you might find better bargains. Don’t hesitate to negotiate prices, especially if you are buying multiple items.


4. Buy nothing groups


Join Buy Nothing groups on Facebook or other social media platforms. These groups focus on gifting items within the community, making it an excellent resource for free children’s clothes and toys.


5. Children’s swaps


Some communities host children’s clothing and toy swaps. These events allow parents to exchange items their kids have outgrown for items they need. If your community doesn’t have one, consider organizing a swap with friends or even neighbours.


6. Seasonal sales


Look out for seasonal consignment sales that specialize in children’s items. These events often have a wide selection of gently used clothes, toys, and gear. Purchase out-of-season clothes when they’re typically cheaper.


7. Hand-me-downs


Accept hand-me-downs from family and friends. You can also offer to swap items, so everyone benefits. Just be sure to inspect the items to ensure they are in good shape.


8. Secondhand stores with online options


Some brick-and-mortar secondhand stores have online shopping options. Stores like ThredUp specialize in high-quality, secondhand children’s clothing.


9. DIY repairs & up-cycling


Learn basic sewing skills to repair minor issues like missing buttons or small tears. Consider upcycling items to give them new life, like turning old t-shirts into pajamas or toys.


10. Social media groups & apps


Join Facebook groups or apps like Nextdoor focused on buying, selling, or swapping children’s items. They often have listings from local sellers. Set up alerts for specific items or sizes so you don’t miss out on great deals.


By utilising some or all of these tips, you can find quality secondhand clothes and toys for your children making it easier to save money while also being environmentally conscious.

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