Getty ImagesThrift enthusiasts often agree that there are very few items at yard sales that should be passed up. With a bit of creativity, many secondhand treasures can be repurposed and enjoyed. However, there are four specific types of items that are generally not worth the trouble. Keep reading to discover what they are and why they may not be as useful as you think.
Getty Images
1. Project Pieces
Many people are guilty of buying secondhand items with the intention of refurbishing them. If you’re not someone who consistently follows through with DIY projects, it’s best to avoid these finds. According to Kristin Keyes, founder of Kristin Keyes Interiors in Nashville, “Unless you’re skilled at completing projects, it’s wise to steer clear of items that need repair, reupholstery, repainting, or re-staining. Project pieces often end up as clutter or unfinished tasks that add unnecessary stress to your to-do list.” Focus on finding preloved items in better condition, even if they come at a slightly higher cost.
2. Bathroom Products
Libby Rasmussen, owner of vintage store Libby and My, advises against purchasing bathroom accessories like beauty products, towels, and other toiletry items due to hygiene concerns. While she makes exceptions for easily cleanable items like glass jars, jewelry boxes, or empty perfume bottles, she recommends avoiding most bathroom-related products at yard sales.
3. D.U.S.T. Finds
Kelly Riley, founder of vintage store June Taylor Shop in Florida, uses the acronym D.U.S.T. to evaluate furniture pieces. She checks drawers for smooth operation, stability to avoid wobbling, and inspects for odors like nicotine, mold, or rancid glue. Riley also looks out for termite droppings on old wooden pieces, especially common in Florida.
4. Items That Are A Good Deal And Nothing More
It can be tempting to snatch up great deals even if you don’t actually need the item. Serena Appiah, a blogger from Maryland, warns against buying items solely because they’re priced attractively. She advises shoppers to focus on purchasing items they genuinely need and will use immediately, rather than accumulating unnecessary clutter with impulse buys.
Remember to be selective in your secondhand shopping to avoid acquiring items that may not serve a useful purpose in your home.
