Does shopping at a thrift store really save money?

Question

Just wondering how many of you out there shop at thrift stores and do you really think it saves you money or do you find yourself spending more or buying things you really do not need because it is a good deal.

Answer 1

At first I was buying things just becasue they were a good deal.  We moved and I ended up throwing out sooooo much stuff that was never used.  Since then, thrift stores have been a god send.  You can get household items like bleach, bathroom, cleaners, underwear, etc for super cheap.  From places like Dollar General I don't get very much food- it's usually near expiration, a weird off-brand, or from a different country.  I just don't trust the food- most everything else is good though.

Places like TJ Maxx, Marshalls and Ross (to a lesser degree) are good places to find clothes. Especially if their in the off season- like right now, jackets and warm pants are super cheap, also a few swim suits from last year.  As long as you take the time to look, you can find some really great deals on name brand items.  You can also get name brand appliances, cook wear and house items for less than retail, but not as cheap as Dollar Stores.

Unless we buy fruit/veggies or go out to eat, we don't pay full price for anything.  It may sound frugal, but it actually has saved a ton of money!  :)  

Just remember- it's only a deal if it gets used!

Answer 2

Yes I shopped at thrift stores often before when I had my first baby and believe it or not.. they have really good stuff and I came out of the store with a lot more then what I even bargained for. NOT to sound cheap or anything; but the clothes and things lasted a long time and was worth it, because their things usually come from donations... and so .. it's not too bad. But at least we don't have to be there anymore....LOL

Answer 3

h**l yea.

Answer 4

Yes they sell alot of Name Brand soap,shampoo,razors,cookies,candy,cleani... and washing stuff,dog food-all ame brand so you end saving a bunch of money-to spend on GAS he he he  dollar store person

Answer 5

If they have what you need and it's not 100 miles away then it can.

Just like coupons, If you buy something just because you have a coupon for it but wouldn't normally buy it then you've actually spent more.

Answer 6

I only go shopping if I have a specific item (or items) that I want to purchase.  So for me, it does save money.  I can see how some people might buy trinkets and knick-knacks they don't need and thereby spend too much, but for me that's not the case.