Thrift shopping

Dee - posted on 08/20/2011

I myself would not. I spend good money on brand new bras, socks, and panties. That's the only time I spend money on myself. I do shop at thift stores and cheap outlets stores to buy myself clothing. That way I can buy my children the nicer things in life.

I don't know if you are from Canada but Kijiji.ca is amazing for stuff.

Krista - posted on 08/10/2011

That is SO gross. And even if they weren't returned, you KNOW people tried them on without keeping their original underwear on.

I wash most things before the initial use/wearing anyway. I had purchased a package of dishcloths once, and never thought to wash them first. Anyway, I took one out of the package, and a Chinese cigarette butt fell out.

Yuck.

Britni - posted on 08/10/2011

I dunno I saw on the news that vicoria secret and other stores take returned panties and put them back on the shelf and they even took samples of them and said they could tell they were worn. SO always wash before wearing wheather you buy new or used!!!!!

Stifler's - posted on 08/05/2011

I just have never seen any good bras at the op shops. It's rare to find your size brand new etc. so I just buy bras new and hardly bother looking. I struggle to find my size in the shops. Everyone around here must be a 14D.

Krista - posted on 08/05/2011

Yeah, I don't think I'd get a bra at a thrift store. I know they can be washed, but there's still a psychological "ick" factor there that I can't get over. I also never buy second-hand shoes. Barf.

I've found some great deals, though, otherwise. My best find was a charcoal gray cashmere crew-neck sweater from Land's End, with the tags still on for two freaking dollars. I've worn that sweater well over a hundred times, and it's still in beautiful condition.

Angela - posted on 08/05/2011

Go by your instincts. i think you could tell by teh kind of quality. Some women wear them once and cant return them so they give them away. It sjust breast nothing really gross on them like underwear there with you on that one. I got my nursing bra at thrift store and just cleaned it well. The price of those bras are ridiculous. So I dont htink its a biggie. Just get one not used as much or theyll tear and it wont be worth it.

Kelsey - posted on 08/04/2011

I like thrift shopping for clothes for myself and my daughter because like some of the other ladies have said, you can find really great brand name clothes for super cheap....but I would never buy some one elses used bras or panties because I think its just weird. And like some also have said is you need to be fitted properly...I always wore a 38 B until I was fitted for a proper bra and I'm actually a 36 C. go figure haha. Also, bras wear out so quickly, even if it looks like it is in good condition, the elasticity may be gone or whatever and still won't fit right so maybe the bra only cost 5 bucks but you couldve saved 5 bucks to go towards a new better bra :)

Julie - posted on 08/04/2011

Thrift shops only take the good stuff now, have bought mine from there for years and feel comfortable and glad for the savings..........

Rita - posted on 08/03/2011

Most thrift stores won't take clothes in unless it's been washed and pressed. If your bra shopping at a thrift store, just remember to check the elastic on the sides and the hooks on the backs. Most stores have a dressing room so try them on before you buy.

Pamela - posted on 08/03/2011

Though I have been a thrift store shopper for many more years than I have desired, I have never purchased under wear of any kind from a thrift store. However, if you have tried on a bra and it fits comfortably, as long as you wash it before wearing it I see no reason not to do so.

Thrift stores can sometimes produce gems that one cannot find or afford in a regular retail store.

Beautiful - posted on 08/03/2011

Leah-- Thanks! I didnt know they fitted you there let alone for free lol. Yes it is better for both, my back hurts so bad any more and I think its partly from not having the right size. As for thrift shopping, went today and got some really cute pink plaid pajama bottoms... I think thats as far as I can go lol no under garmets for me. :) Thanks for the imput and help everybody!

Rose - posted on 08/03/2011

I dont see a problem as long as you wash in hot water with bleach.

Leah - posted on 08/03/2011

Brandi regarding how to measure to be fitted- go to Victorias secret. They will measure you, then get you a few to try on to make sure it's correct... Once they have confirmed your size they write it on a card for you- all for free an you don't have to buy anything! You can then take that card to another store if you want to buy a cheaper option... I get refitted EVERY time I need a new bra- we all fluctuate with sizes as our weight goes up an down (and after having children! Hahaha!) think of a bra as an investment... A good fitting bra is better for both your posture and self esteem! ...

Sarah - posted on 08/03/2011

I have personally donated bras to thrift stores before. And I don't have cooties. lol. I donated a breastfeeding bra, which is normally pretty pricey. I wash everything in the hottest water possible without wrecking the item before I wear it anyways, so I don't see a problem with it.

Samantha - posted on 08/03/2011

i love thrift shopping one not that far from our house had their clothes on for 1.00 and some shes also so i was able to buy my son 2 shorts a pair of jeans and a pair of polo boots for 4.00 you cant beat that at all versus paying 19 for a pair of shorts a shirt and a pair of shoes for my daughter at walmart the same day

Tina - posted on 08/03/2011

I have purchased bras from thrift stores. I simply wash them in clorox 2 before wearing them. There really isnt much that you could catch from a used bra anymore than you could from a used shirt or pants.I am sure that you have worn a hospital gown, they are owrn by other people and the bed sheets are also used by others. There is really no difference.As long as they are washed they are sanitary.

Diane - posted on 08/03/2011

I agree with most of you on this issue however if the Bra is new with the tags still attached yes I would and if it looks like it was only wore a few times yes I would as we provide clothing items to several women in need and can not afford to buy bras,we wash everything before giving it out anyways so we know it is clean and sanitized. however we NEVER buy underwear if it used in anyway PERIOD! These items are bought Brand New only.

Beautiful - posted on 08/03/2011

Good deals also make me giddy lol.... I may not be able to get my bras from thrift stores but I can get so, so much more. In fact im going today lol

Miranda - posted on 08/03/2011

I say bras and underware are just two things that need to be bought new. Our boobs need the good support and a new bra is the best way to get that. If you buy a good one it will last you awhile. If you buy a used one you may have to buy more cause they wont last as long. I have had 3 of mine for 3 years now that I got at JCP and they are still in good shape. They were $20 a piece but well worth my comfort, support and longevity.

Jenn - posted on 08/03/2011

Meh...I don't do used bras or panties. I do LOVE thrift stores and eBay for designer dresses, jeans, etc. I've heard of women getting funky diseases or rashes from used under things. Besides, most donation places won't even accept used bras or panties so that is all the confirmation I need that no one should!

I will often find fantastic deals on great clothes, bras and underwear in obscure, out of the way Target stores. They have fantastic markdowns! $2.50 toddler jacket? $3 glittery shoes? $7 bra? I am IN!

BIG fan of Craigslist...though only for furniture or yard stuff, nothing electrical or clothing. Got a $1200 Costco swingset for $300, only 3 years old. Also a beautiful wood table for outdoors, that I sealed, for only $20.

Good deals make me giddy!

Susan - posted on 08/03/2011

Try the Purple Patch on Towson, next to Burger King. They get new bras and panties donated to them from the manufacturers and 100% of the money they make goes to a non-profit helping kids in our community!

Billie - posted on 08/03/2011

I wouldn't because bras are right up there with panties for me. I couldn't ever bring myself to wear someone else's under-garments unless it was an emergency.

Maryanne - posted on 08/03/2011

Sue you are so right. I have bought things that are brand new,tags still attached. I love it.

Beth - posted on 08/03/2011

I love getting so much from Goodwill, Salvation Army, or D.A.V stores. So far haven't bought undies. Shoes once in a while if they're in good shape and fit and many other items. Anything I do buy though gets sanitized when I get home before they start using or wearing whatever I've bought or they've picked out for themselves.

Katherine - posted on 08/03/2011

@ Brandi, I've never had any problems at all.

Sal - posted on 08/03/2011

and like emma i never can have enough wine glasses so if i see them they are always on the list and i have found some great sunnies too...today of got a pair of gucci ones $3 got to love that...

Sal - posted on 08/03/2011

i wouldn't buy anything that looked like it had had a hard ;life....but seen as my bras cost over $50 each (for a cheapo one) yep if i saw a good one i;d be all over it

Sal - posted on 08/03/2011

i wouldn't buy anything that looked like it had had a hard ;life....but seen as my bras cost over $50 each (for a cheapo one) yep if i saw a good one i;d be all over it...undies no not my thing...having said thaty how ever my daughter spotted a pair with whales on them one day and flately rufused to leave without them and she wears them and they has been no ill effects....just seems a bit icky

Beth - posted on 08/02/2011

I love freecycle. As a mum with 4 kiddos that are growing like weeds, it sure helps our finances. Not only does it helps us, but then those that can use what we have get new things also. I've rarely had any problems with anything to do with freecycle! Enjoy!

Esther - posted on 08/02/2011

Bras can be pricey, so it is tempting to purchase underwear from thrift stores. There are times I even find some with store tags still. Anything that I purchase from thrift stores goes in the wash immediately, using at least a 1/4 cup of ammonia along with my detergent and into the dryer there after.

Sue - posted on 08/02/2011

sometimes you may find a brand new one with tags on it...

Marsha - posted on 08/02/2011

Second Hand shopping is great way to save money. However undergarments can be tricky. Bras can loose elasticity and will not fit correctly and be uncomfortable so you're not really getting a bargain if you don't wear it after you get it home. You can sometimes find things that are new with tags so then I risk it. Same with panties. Used ones never seem in good enough shape to bother with, but if I did I would bleach and sanitize them thoroughly.

Kate CP - posted on 08/02/2011

I loooooooove the Goodwill. :)

Beautiful - posted on 08/02/2011

I got some really nice curtains a few months ago for about $10, I have fun digging through everything, I also but the bric brac leaves and stuff and I use it to decorate the house

Maryanne - posted on 08/02/2011

Isn't it the best? I have bought beautiful linen tablecloths that fit my extended dining room table for $5.00 and I love it.

Stifler's - posted on 08/02/2011

I buy wine glasses and like glass platters and stuff for $5 from there. People wonder where I get my stuff and are like "this must have been your grandmas" hahaha and I'm like..... Lifeline

Maryanne - posted on 08/02/2011

Isn't it the best feeling. I try to tell young people it is so much better to get a gently and lovingly used item at a thrift store that a new item at walmart that doesn't last long. But so many go for the new. What a shame.

Kate CP - posted on 08/02/2011

Really REALLY poor people (like my mother was when I was a baby) buy thrift store panties.

Stifler's - posted on 08/02/2011

I get where you're coming from though Brandi, does anyone actually buy the underwear!

Lisa - posted on 08/02/2011

Bras are made of stretchy material that loses its stretch after awhile. A bra is something I wouldn't skimp on (and I'm small chested). Underwear. NO. If I see underwear for sale at a garage sale, I've boughten it just to throw it away.

Beautiful - posted on 08/02/2011

Leah and Maryanne--- I see about the fitting... Im wearing a 38 c right now and I noticed the other day its kinda small and all my bras seem to ride up on my back. Honestly im not even sure how I would measure to get the right size :) Maryanne, we always shop at thrift stores for all of us and have been the last couple of years. I love getting my kids brand name clothes with out having to pay an arm and leg for it. My kids always look better than us to lol.

Maryanne - posted on 08/02/2011

I love shopping at thrift stores and I am a 64 yr old president of a large business who drives a crossover cadilac. However, my great joy is when I find something absolutely wonderful and pay $1.99 for it. I have bought Jones of NY, Vera Bradley, Pierre Cardin and so many more designer brands at our Local Goodwill. I have never bought bra's because I think they need to be fitted. I have bought panties but they are always brand new and still have the tags on them. I rarely pay full price opting instead to look at whatever tag is half price that week. We live well, travel often and I indulge myself with books and theatre and dinners. I think everyone should try the thrift store experience,especially you younger parents with small children. It is amazing what can be added to a college fund when it is not spent retail.

Leah - posted on 08/02/2011

i wouldnt...only because i believe that ALL women should get their bra's fitted...90% of women wear ill fitting bras, because they think they know their size...but dont...

Jenna - posted on 08/02/2011

I think it comes down to personal preference. I don't have much of a leg to stand on, we go dumpster diving all the time, but I personally wouldn't purchase bras at a thrift shop. But I know how you feel, good ones are expensive and don't last long. Hmmm, maybe I'll join you on it!

Beautiful - posted on 08/02/2011

No I wont buy ANY undergarmets for me or my kids... or shoes. Im just curious if anybody really does.

Stifler's - posted on 08/02/2011

I don't. I realyl only buy kids stuff as people's kid wears it once and they're grown out of it and like nice tops and stuff if there is any. I never buy underwear.

Beautiful - posted on 08/01/2011

Katherine-- That is a really cool website and I had no idea it existed until you commented, do you ever have problems when meeting people to exchange items or is it like a group gathering type thing? Im still waiting for my membership to go through.

Katherine - posted on 08/01/2011

Another great site is freecycle. I've gotten so much stuff from there. I got a beautiful desk with a chair and it's all free. Check it out. I love it. AND you can get rid of your stuff that you don't want.

Beautiful - posted on 08/01/2011

Same here.. im just ify on it, Im trying to constantly save money with literally everything I buy these days. And anytime I go thrift shopping the stuff gets washed like three times before I use it lol but I just dont know :)

Carrie - posted on 08/01/2011

MMMM I dunno..I'm kinda torn on this. I have taken hand me down bras from my sister, those are the only used bras I have ever had. But if you can find something in great condition, clean, and cheap, I don't see why not? Everything is washable/bleachable right?