Home items you don’t have to buy new
Furnishing your home can be a very expensive endeavor. And if you’re just moving into your space as a homeowner or renter, you probably spent a good chunk of cash to move. No matter how much you moved in with, you’ll often find that you need to get some extra items or change up some things you already own to better suit your new digs. There’s so many items that you would get better wear and bang for your budget if you bought used.
Popular places to buy secondhand include Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, local thrift stores like and larger chains like Goodwoll and Habitat for Humanity Resource, garage and yard sales, local and online estate sales and online stores like 1st Dibs and Chairish, Ebay and Etsy. Here are 7 home items you’re probably better off not buying new:
Wood Furniture
The major pieces of furniture in your home tend to be the hardest to find in terms of affordability and durability. While it may take a bit more time searching for the right piece, it more than pays off in the long run to look for thrifted, antique or vintage wood furniture instead of mass produced particle board pieces. They add warmth, they are durable and they perfectly provide function and charm to your space. Here are some wood items I always look out for:
Dining table and chairs
It doesn’t take long to find a good used dining table or chairs. These items are always circulating in the market and can come in very good condition. You can mix and match styles, even venturing into conference tables if you require a large setup.
Dining chairs are relatively easy to refinish with painting, staining, changing the seat cover fabric or adding chair cushions. I found this beautiful set made of real mahogany. I love the claw feet details on the table and chairs.
2. Mirrors
Mirrors not only function to help you get ready and looking good but they also provide ways to bounce light around the room, but they can be quite expensive. A heavy well made mirror can go from a few hundred to even thousands of dollars. Yet you can find excellent options at your local thrift store or online marketplace.
I’ve found my best mirrors at a steal! You can add more character to your home by switching out your contractor-grade bathroom vanity mirrors or elevate your walls with a unique vintage piece.
3. Artwork
Art pieces are a vital component of home decor. They complement or boost the mood in your space and are a great way to show off your personality and taste. Collecting art pieces can be an expensive hobby, but thrift stores and second hand sources can provide a cheap and accessible alternative. You can also find well-made frames for pieces you already own. Look to official prints and vintage posters as an affordable alternative to artwork from places like Etsy, Chairish and Ebay. Feeling a bit adventurous? Try modifying a thrifted artwork by painting over it in abstract shapes. You can also experiment by framing mementos, pages off of an old publication, fabric pieces, or that special scarf that you own.
1970s Alexandra Merker Palisades Parkway Scene Poster - 15
4. Decor & Accessories
I consider this a delectable hobby scouring both high and low places for artwork, trinket trays, picture frames, unique lamps, well made cushion covers, figurines, vases, decorative plates, carved wood and so much more. These seemingly little details can add the personality you crave for your space at a resounding fraction of the cost for the same items brand new. I began collecting cut glass for their beautiful shapes and versatility and have been pleasantly surprised by how sturdy they are!
5. Dinnerware, Glass Ware, and Cooking ware
I always look for colorful and fancy dinnerware sets to up my tablescape game. High end china and porcelain can be a bit pricey but you can get a good deal with some patience and a keen eye. I think having china as part of your everyday dishes is a great way to to add more joy to your dining life. Look no further than a well stocked thrift/antique store for unique glassware for your home. You won’t spend much which will soften the blow if they break.
Check out these other home furnishings you can consider buying used/vintage/antique/thrifted with a few caveats:
Sofas and upholstered armchairs: you can find these well made but be wary of dust mites, hidden smells and a pet history. If the structure is solid, you can try reupholstering or covering with a custom sofa cover. You can also deep clean with a carpet cleaner upholstery attachment. I have had great results with this after dusting with baking soda and using lysol fabric disinfectant afterwards. If the piece is of good quality or of sentimental value, it may be worth a complete overhaul with reupholstering.
Vintage carpet: Same as with upholstered furniture, you will need to invest in deep cleaning your piece. Many reputable stores disinfect and clean used carpets before selling.
Books: These are notorious for harboring mildew, mold and dust mites so inspect them carefully before purchasing.
Do you agree with my list? What items did I leave out? Sound off in the comments section.
Explore home items you can score from thrift stores and Facebook Marketplace.
