Thrift shopping is a great way to put a unique and eco-friendly twist on your wardrobe, but some items you come across probably shouldn’t end up in your shopping bag. From worn-out shoes to undergarments, here are five items most people avoid buying at second-hand stores.
Damaged/Stained Items
Before purchasing any item you find at a thrift store, make sure it’s not damaged or stained. Even if you can fix it, it’s probably not worth the price if the damage has already been done.
Makeup & Skincare
If your favorite thrift store comes with a makeup and skincare aisle, avoid it at all costs because these products should always be bought brand-new.
Workout Clothes
Buying workout clothes at thrift stores is a slippery slope because they’ll usually be too stretched out to properly support you during your workouts, in addition to potentially holding lingering smells.
Underwear
Most people feel icky about buying underwear at thrift stores due to hygiene concerns. Unless you’re lucky enough to find lingerie that still has tags on them, undergarments that have already been worn are best avoided.
Worn-Out Shoes
You should think twice before buying shoes at thrift stores because they tend to mold to the shape of the original wearer’s foot so it’s highly unlikely they’ll fit you properly.