50 Home Decor Items to Always Buy at Thrift Stores

Let’s set off on a journey into the realm of pre-loved treasures and hidden gems with our guide to 50 Home Decor Items to Always Buy at Thrift Stores. Whether you’re a seasoned thrifter or a novice seeking to infuse your home with unique character, this list will serve as your compass, and navigate you toward timeless pieces that will add a touch of individuality to your space.

We’ll explore everything from vintage furniture and artwork to eclectic knick-knacks and textiles. Antique stores are veritable treasure troves waiting to be explored. With a little patience and a keen eye, you’re sure to uncover hidden gems that will make your home feel warm, inviting, and uniquely you.

I don’t know about you, but one of my favorite things to do is to go thrifting. You can find the things at a great price plus it’s the epitome of recycling in the best form. 

Today there are so many names for doing the same thing. Years ago when I grew up, it was called antiquing. One of my favorite places to go each year is the Brimfield Antique Show. When that is not possible I shop locally.

In our small town, off I would go with my mother to Mr. Sanders! His shop, aka, a car garage filled with the best finds, wasn’t far from our home and my mom loved to go see what he had each week. He had the most gorgeous antiques in and around our town. I had the best time with my mom and this was where I learned the art and love of finding gorgeous pieces for my home.

Other Names for Antiquing: A List of Synonyms

Somewhere along the line, antiquing became known as thrifting! Thrift shops today are hugely popular. 

Here is a list of other names for ‘antiquing’ that come to mind:

• Secondhand stores
• Pre-loved shopping
• Consignment shopping
• Resale shopping
• Vintage shopping
• Antique shopping
• Flea market shopping
• Garage sales
• Curbside shopping
• Online Marketplaces: I’m a vendor at Vintage Keepers Marketplace along with 30 other shops. You can find my shop here. Check back often as new items get added regularly.

No matter what you call it, some of the best home decor items come from FB Marketplace or yard sales. 

What do people buy most at thrift stores?

It’s no secret that the way the economy and inflated prices are going more and more people are looking to shop at a local thrift store rather than retail stores. But what is the most sought-after item?

Well, the answer to that is pretty much everything! Whether it’s a thrift shop, estate sales, or garage sales, along with second hand shops, vintage items are one of the hottest shopping trends going. They are also one of the best ways and a great option for finding items that cost much less than their newer counterparts. 

Women’s Clothing & Shoes

Currently, the trend is high for womens clothing and shoes, but it doesn’t stop there. I know the perfect place to find coffee table books is in the book section. You can find many beautiful books that would normally cost more than forty dollars. Not true with your local thrift shop or flea markets. Books can be purchased for as little as one to two dollars. 

Another great find is home decor items. Whether it be lamps, dishes, furniture, or garden items. You can expect great finds in any of these niches. 

7 Best Reasons to Shop for Vintage Pieces

1. Saves money – Shop with a purpose
2. Unique finds – rare objects that are not made any longer
3. Reduces waste – recycle and reuse is great for the environment
4. Supports charities – helps out churches or charity events 
5. Eco-friendly choice – a great way to keep items out of the landfill
6. Encourages recycling – passing down things from generation to generation
7. Vintage quality – items can be much more durable and well-made to last

Thrifting for Home Decor: Keep an Open Mind and Get Creative

It’s no secret I love thrift shopping for home decor! But when you’re thrift shopping, it’s important to keep an open mind and be willing to think outside the box. You may find items that you wouldn’t have normally considered, but that can end up being some of your favorite pieces.

The key to thrift store shopping is to ask yourself two different questions.

• First, are you shopping with a purpose? Meaning are you looking for something specific or are you purusing the isles? Shopping with a purpose in mind is great for the budget. This will matter when it comes to the second question.
• Secondly, before you buy it, ask yourself if this can be used in another way that might be obvious, and if you leave it behind will you be thinking about it for days?
• If the answer is yes to either question, you won’t be able to stop thinking about it, then you should purchase it straight away.

Here are a few specific examples of how you can think outside the box when thrift shopping for home decor:

• A vintage metal locker in good condition can be used as a nightstand, coffee table, or even a kitchen island.
• An antique suitcase can be used as a side table or ottoman.
• Old vintage window frames can be used as a mirror or to showcase a piece of art.
• Using a vintage ladder can be used as a towel rack or plant stand.
• A vintage chalkboard can be used as a kitchen backsplash or message board.

Don’t be afraid to get creative 

1. Repurpose Finds: Transform an old ladder into a stylish bookshelf or turn vintage teacups into unique candle holders.
2. DIY Makeovers: Give old furniture a new life with paint, reupholstering, or changing hardware for a fresh, updated look.
3. Mix and match different styles. Don’t be afraid to mix and match different styles of furniture and decor. This can create a unique and eclectic look that’s all your own.
4. Don’t be afraid to negotiate. Most estate sales are willing to negotiate on prices, especially if you’re buying multiple items.

Thrift Store Home Decor Finds: 50 Must-Have Items to Look For

Here is a list of 50 home decor items to always buy at thrift stores:

Furniture

• Wooden Furniture
• Wooden Bowls
• Brass Candlesticks
• China Cabinets
• Mason Jars
• Sofa or Settes
• Chairs that can be recovered
• Beds: headboards or footboards
• Side Tables
• End Tables
• Dining Table
• Kitchen Table
• Nightstands
• Bookshelves or Bookcases
• Old Desks
• Vintage Metal Lockers
• Dressers
• Armoires
• TV stands
• Ottomans or Needlepoint footstools
• Benches
• Old Trunks
• Rocking chairs

Light Fixtures

• Chandeliers
• Sconces
• Floor lamps
• Table lamps
• Pendant lights
• Recessed lights
• Track lights
• Floor lights
• Window Frames

Home Decor Staples

• Mirrors
• Artwork
• Vases
• Pitchers
• Bowls
• Platters
• Trays
• Candlesticks
• Figurines
• Wreaths

Soft Furnishings

• Throw pillows
• Blankets
• Rugs
• Curtains
• Drapes
• Table Linens

Home Decor Accents

• Baskets
• Wreaths
• Garlands
• Centerpieces
• Planters
• Wall hangings
• Clocks
• Trays
• Serving pieces
• Vintage books
• Vintage calendars or sheet music
• Cigar boxes
• Dishes and serving ware

Other Household Items

• Hardware (knobs, pulls, hinges, etc.)
• Tools
• Gardening supplies
• Crafting supplies
• Storage solutions
• Holiday decorations
• Seasonal decorations
• Unique treasures

Thrift Store Home Decor Hacks: How to Get the Best Deals

Here are some of my tips for thrift shopping for home decor:

• Go often. The best items tend to go quickly, so it’s important to visit thrift stores regularly to get a good deal.
• Take your time. Don’t rush through the store. Take the time to browse and inspect items carefully to find the perfect piece.
• Be creative. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and see potential in items that may be outdated or damaged. A fresh coat of paint can change the look of the item.
• Don’t be afraid to negotiate. Most thrift stores are willing to negotiate on prices, especially if you’re buying multiple items.
• Bring a measuring tape. This will help you make sure that items will fit in your home before you buy them.
• Inspect items carefully for damage before you buy them. Some thrift stores have a no-return policy, so it’s important to make sure that you’re happy with your purchase before you leave the store.

7 FAQ for Home Decor Shopping

1. What types of home decor can I find at thrift stores?

• Thrift stores are treasure troves of diverse items, ranging from vintage furniture, unique artwork, eclectic lamps, and ornamental dishes, to handmade textiles. The inventory is always changing, so each visit can uncover new finds.

2. How Often should I visit thrift stores to find the best items?

• Frequent visits can increase your chances of discovering great finds. Thrift stores typically restock regularly, so visiting once a week or bi-weekly can yield the best results. Early mornings or weekdays are often the best times to shop, as stores are less crowded.

3. How can I spot high-quality items?

• Inspect items for craftsmanship, look for solid wood in furniture, check for maker’s marks on ceramics or silver, and examine textiles for natural fibers and hand-sewn details. Quality items often have weight to them and show signs of skilled workmanship.

4. Are prices negotiable at thrift stores?

• While prices at thrift stores are generally fixed, some stores may negotiate on items that have been on the floor for a while. It never hurts to politely ask, especially if you’re purchasing multiple items.

5. How do I clean refurbished thrift store finds?

• For furniture, a gentle cleaning with soap and water followed by minor repairs or a fresh coat of paint can work wonders. Textiles may require a thorough wash or dry cleaning. Decorative items like vases or frames can be revitalized with a simple wipe-down or a creative repaint.

6. Can I return items if I change my mind?

Return policies vary greatly among thrift stores, with many sales being final. Always check the store’s policy before purchasing, especially for larger items.

7. How can I be more successful in finding good home decor at thrift stores?

• Keep an open mind, be patient, and visit regularly. Knowing your space’s measurements and having a list of needed items can help focus your search. Don’t be afraid to imagine the potential of items with a little TLC or a creative makeover. Thrifting for home decor is not just about finding items at a bargain; it’s about discovering unique pieces that add character and charm to your home. Keep these FAQs in mind, and enjoy the thrill of the hunt!

With a little patience and creativity, you can find amazing home decor items at thrift stores for a fraction of the cost of buying new.

The possibilities are endless! 

So next time you’re at a thrift store, take your time, browse carefully, and be open to new ideas. You never know what you will find. 

Bringing new life to old treasures is the best possible way to recycle!