tips from a frugal momma - my thrifting tips

I'm a thrifter, and proud of it. Nothing is more thrilling to me than finding awesome deals and unique items in the bins and on the shelves of the local thrift stores. There are just so many benefits to thrifting that I'm often surprised that more people aren't all over it. It saves money and resources while at the same time offering so many unique items you might not be able to find in stores. Cheap vintage mugs, out of season clothing, seriously discounted like-new books - you name it!

I try to thrift most of our stuff. Linens, clothes, housewares, etc. If I can find it at the thrift store, I'd much rather get it there. Obviously it's not always the most convenient way to shop and there are some things that you have to buy new, but I try to thrift whenever I can manage it and here are some of my tips on how to get the most of your thrifting experience.

• Expect to take a long time. If you're a momma, you know that kids don't always enjoy shopping trips that are lengthy. I've brought my little bear on many a thrifting adventure, but he's pretty content to hang in the sling or the stroller as I browse. Even so, it's still nice when I can go out kid-free and really dig around for some treasures. So if you're really hunting for something in particular, make sure you have the time to do so!
• Don't get discouraged. Sometimes there are just slim pickins! Maybe it's a bad stock day, maybe you're searching for something very particular and having no luck, but whatever it is - don't give up. There will always be another day with new items and a new perspective. 
• Keep an open mind. Say you see some fabric that really calls to you, but you think 'when am I going to need these floral placemats?' The simple answer is to weigh the price of them. If you're crafty with a sewing machine, you can always use them in some project you might find later. If they're a fairly reasonable price and you have a scrap bin at home, nab them while you can!
• Keep your perspective. I prefer thrifting alone, because I personally don't think in the mind set of 'oh it's used and should be dirt cheap.' If I find something I love and it's a little pricier than other things, I check the quality of it. I check for fading, for stains, for signs of wear. If I'm satisfied that it's still in great condition, I still consider it a bargain and I bag it. 
• Look out of season. If there's something you really really want for the fall (for example), start looking the second you set your heart on it. I bought moccasins for myself in June, and just put them away until it's cold enough outside to wear them!

I try to keep it simple really. Shopping and finding deals is one thing that I really genuinely enjoy and I try not to bring too much stress into it. Most of my our things are either thrifted or bought second hand and I love each and every thing for a special reason. Thrifting gives the things more meaning and makes everything we surround ourselves with more beautiful, and that's one of the things that makes me so passionate about thrifting as much as we can. Not only is it good for our bank account, but it's good for the environment and good for keeping us sticking to the aspects of minimalism we've adapted. 

In short, thrifting rocks!