Buying clothes, shoes, school supplies, groceries and paying all the bills can be a stressful challenge when you’re supporting your family. The prices of needed everyday items are constantly going up while your paycheck and bank account are not. It comes down to finding frugal methods to buy the items you and your family needs. That’s why shopping at thrift stores is a great option for buying clothes, shoes, toys and household items. Here are 12 secrets for shopping at Goodwill.
1. Join their membership if it is available in your area.
Goodwill has a membership plan that gives you points and rewards for being a member. You will be the first to know about special deals, coupons, and promotions. You don’t have to fight the crowd on the 50% off days to get a good deal. Since each Goodwill stores operate autonomously the membership offers are only in participating stores.
2. Shop on the 50% off days.
Shopping on the 50% off days is a good idea but you will probably be in a crowded store. It is worth the effort to look carefully at the items you need and get the best option for your family. At the end of the day, it is half of what you would normally be paying so it is definitely worth sticking to it.
3. Check to see if your local Goodwill has promotions like the color sale.
If your store area offers this promotion, then every day they have a specific color on sale. The tags are color coded, so if you pay attention to what color is on sale you can save a lot of money. There may be some options that would be your second choice, but on sale that day. It is smart to buy what is on sale as long as you like it and will use it.
4. Shop in the furniture section.
The furniture section can be an awesome way to save money on bigger purchases. If you need a table and chairs or a dresser, these are items that can be easy to refinish or paint. You just need to shop carefully. Open all of the dresser drawers and sit on any chairs for example. Make sure the items you are purchasing are sturdy and affordable.
5. Shop at your local Goodwill often.
Shopping at your local Goodwill often means you can find the best deals first. You will be able to notice the new additions, if you are familiar with their inventory. The staff will get to know you as well and can help you find the new great deals.
6. Shop early on Monday morning.
Shopping early on Monday morning is a good way to catch the good deals that people donate after their yard sales. This is especially true during the spring and summer months when yard sales are going strong. You can find some really great deals that were left behind at garage sales.
7. Shop at different Goodwill stores in different neighborhoods.
Different stores in assorted neighborhoods can have a vast variety of the items they have for sale. Shopping in the higher end neighborhoods you may find higher quality items but that is not always true. Shop around at different Goodwill stores in and around your city or town.
8. Look for high-quality products.
Looking for higher quality products makes sense because it will last longer. It will probably cost more now, but is the better deal because you won’t have to replace the item as soon. The longer something lasts the more money you will save in the long run.
9. Don’t pass up on items you like.
Don’t pass up on any items you like because it will more than likely be gone when you go back to get it. If you find something you want, you will more than likely regret it if you pass it up.
10. Be sure to know the discounts like student and military discounts.
Be sure to know the discounts, like student and military discounts. If you can get these discounts, be sure to know when you can get it and take advantage of these savings. They set aside specific days for senior discount, as well, which may be a discount you can use to help you save money.
11. Shop for the right price.
Shop around for the right price. Don’t just buy something if you don’t check the sales and deals. It may be a good deal but it’s just a good idea to be sure. You may find that it is better to wait and buy it on sale on the 50% off day. If you are willing to take the chance that it may be gone next time you come.
12. Look for good bargains that can be restored or fixed up.
Look for good bargains that can be restored or fixed up. You can find excellent deals and fix them up to be almost new. Just because you aren’t buying it new does not make it second rate or a lower standard. Items like antiques are not new items but are highly sought out.
Looking for ways to save money and stay on your budget is smart for your whole family. Buying at Goodwill can be a great option to help you buy what your family needs. You don’t have to sacrifice on getting nice quality products, just because you don’t have a lot of money. It is all about shopping smarter and being frugal.
Goodwill as much as i love what they stand for i do not shop there often because i am very displeased with the way they display their items such as color instead of size. I hate to have to look thru everything just to find my size. I prefer to go straght to my size.Therefore i shop at other thrift shops for this reason,Unfortunalty i also know alot of other people that shop else where becauswe of this reason.