13 of the biggest thrift-shopping mistakes you're making when buying clothes - and what to do instead

Celia FernandezFeb 10, 2021, 03:23 IST

Experts shared with Insider some of the biggest mistakes people make when thrift shopping for clothes.Sophie Walster/Getty Images

Expert thrift-shoppers told Insider the common mistakes people make when buying secondhand clothes.
Thrifters shouldn't skip over items that need to be tailored — unless they're stained or ripped.
Thrifting exclusively on weekends also isn't the best option, experts said.

Shopping for clothes at a thrift store can be equally exciting and overwhelming.

There's a special thrill that comes with finding a one-of-a-kind or vintage piece at a discounted price - but it's not always easy to know what's worth buying and what should be kept on the rack.

Insider spoke to experienced thrift-shoppers, bloggers, and influencers about common mistakes people make when shopping for secondhand clothes - and what they should be doing instead.

Going thrifting during busy days, like Saturday and Sunday, means there's more competition for the best finds.

Try going thrift-shopping at off-peak times. iStock/Getty Images

It's best to stay away from buying thrifted pieces from fast-fashion brands.

Trantham said she can't justify paying $10 for an item from a fast-fashion brand. Gillian Vann/Getty Images

Don't just look for special garments. Go digging for basics, too.

Buying basics at a thrift store could potentially be what you save on the most. Eric Ferguson/Getty Images

Skipping an item because it needs a few alterations can be a missed opportunity.

Sometimes it's worth thinking about the new life you can give thrift store clothes. Westend61/Getty Images

That being said, some items aren't worth grabbing if they have stains or holes.

Trantham said to double-check the clothes before buying them. Tatiana Gorbunova/Getty Images

Thrift-shoppers miss out when they only think about shopping in the current season.

When shopping at the thrift store, think about your year-round wardrobe. miksov/Getty Images

Stop buying clothes that are too small in the hopes of motivating yourself to fit into them.

If you never end up fitting the clothes, you will have to donate them back anyway. zagi89/Getty Images

Buying thrifted pieces without inspecting the garment label is another common mistake.

Limón said it's important to see what the clothes are made of before buying them. Isabel Pavia/Getty Images

Skipping the dressing room can lead to buyer's remorse.

Trying on thrifted finds at the store is always a good idea, if it's an option. Westend61/Getty Images

Avoid buying things you'll never wear just because they seem like good deals.

It's easy to overbuy at thrift stores because of the oftentimes-affordable prices. Andrew Medina/Getty Images

Don't forget to ask the staff when or if things go on sale.

Get to know thrift shop staff members. FG Trade/Getty Images

Going to the same thrift store for every outing can be limiting.

If it's an option, explore different thrift stores in your neighborhood to get the best selection. Tony Anderson/Getty Images

Don't forget to balance out your thrifted purchases with donations of your own.

One expert takes a "buy one, donate one" approach. Damian Lugowski/Getty Images

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