The Scavenger of Saving

A guide of some of my go-to favorite thrift stores.

https://brightly.eco/blog/best-thrift-stores-in-san-diego

Thrifting is a great eco-friendly way to buy clothing without adding more waste to the environment. Being able to reuse and recycle clothing of all types--you can buy clothes at an affordable reasonable price. During my journeys of thrifting I have found that one of the biggest struggles has been finding satisfactory thrift stores, so here are a few I know won't disappoint.

I hope this post helps you find just what you're looking for!

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#1: Goodwill

Photo: By Wix

When people think of thrift stores Goodwill is commonly one of the first to be thought of. Typically being one of the most consistent chain thrift shops; Goodwill has made an appearance all around the US.

Being a non-profit organization their goal is to make an impact helping people overcome challenges such as; finding jobs and growing their careers. In 2022, local Goodwills diverted 4.1 billion pounds of usable goods from landfills. Not only have they been creating a great impact they also have a great selection of all types of clothing. Varying from things such as baby clothes to elderly. You can donate: clothing, furniture, appliances and nicknacks of all types. When you donate to Goodwill you won't be receiving any money in exchange but you can write off the donation in taxes. I have found Goodwill to be a great option when looking for more vintage pieces such as grandpa sweaters.

#2: Plato's Closet

If you are a teenager like me, Plato's closet is one of my top recommendations of places to go. With a huge selection of trendy brand named clothes Plato's goal is to keep up to date clothing selections targeted for teenagers. I find Platos to be great when you have a specific trendy piece in mind that you want to purchase. For example -- when looking for something such as a white lace sundress I would recommend going here rather than goodwill due to their target audience being more specific towards that type of clothing.

https://www.platoscloset.com/locations/columbia-mo

Just like goodwill you can also donate your clothes but the great difference being Platos will exchange your clothing for cash money. When you bring in your clothing they will have a team of members scavenger throughout each piece examining for items they think will be great for the store and leaving the ones they think won't. When you come back to pick up your clothes they will tell you how many items they found and the amount they will give you for them along with a list of pieces. You can either accept this offer or decline, taking back all the clothing you bought in. To help give you a visual: I brought in 2 bags worth of clothes of all kinds and out of everything they took 6 items in exchange for $22.

#3: 6 Degree Resale

Photo by: Don Campbell

It was a gloomy rainy day in the month of october when my friend and I discovered this small local thrift shop on the corner of West Wall Street.

We swiftly drove the car into the parking lot and scurried in like mice running to cheese amazed that we were never before aware of this Hidden Gem so close to home. Just like the goodwill stores; they had things such as: home appliances, furniture, books, movies, and clothing. But what really made this store stand out was their story.

With all of the proceeds they receive from selling the clothes donated they take that money to provide shelter to families across Berrien County, MI. With some of the best prices I’ve seen at a thrift store and a beautiful heartwarming story, the 6 degree thrift shop became a quick favorite.

Bringing it all together...

There are many different options out there that can meet many different needs, each of which include their own unique qualities. I hope this post helped you find something you may have not once knew was out there. Comment below some of your thrift shops to visit!