How To Kit Your House Out For Less With 'Secondhand September'
Looking for a way to save cash, be kind to the environment and help a good cause? Then roll up your sleeves and go hunting for a second-hand bargain. Kitting out your home may not be as expensive as you might think and shopping second hand can give you a chance to purchase quality items you once thought were unattainable within your budget.
Looking for a way to save cash, be kind to the environment and help a good cause? Then roll up your sleeves and go hunting for a second-hand bargain. Kitting out your home may not be as expensive as you might think and shopping second hand can give you a chance to purchase quality items you once thought were unattainable within your budget.
As this month is Second-Hand September*, now’s the time to up your game when shopping for ‘pre-loved’ furniture, ornaments and garden ware.
And to help you do so, we’ve prepared some tips on sniffing out the best charity shop bargains.
- When looking at furniture, think creatively. Consider reframing artworks and reupholstering tired-looking sofas and chairs. Chests of drawers and wardrobes can be updated with a lick of paint and new handles.
- Walking into a charity shop and seeing a jumble can feel daunting. But don’t be overwhelmed; just take your time and keep an open mind. Look out for quality materials and colours/patterns that will match your home décor.
- Charity shops are a great place to find barely used goods. Whether it be a blender that someone didn't need, a poster that wasn't to their taste or a table that didn't fit in their dining room, even brand new items with tags can often be found with a bit of searching.
- Many charities also have online shops selling high-quality items, so keep an eye on what they’re listing. Also Facebook marketplace has a wide range or housing goods, especially if you are willing to pick up yourself.
- If you don’t hit the jackpot on your first charity shop visit, persist. You never know where you perfect vintage sofa or the oak side table you've been looking for might pop up.
- Charity shops tend to see a surge in donations in January when many people offload unwanted Christmas items.
- Keep the second-hand cycle going by donating your quality unwanted goods to your local charity store. Xcel Furniture Shop in Carmarthen also have a collection service for your unwanted furniture and home ware.
Why not take the Oxfam’s Second Hand September challenge? Encouraging everyone to buy only used clothing and home ware for the month.
Where’s the best place in South Wales to pick up a bargain? Let us know your favourite charity shop on our Instagram or Facebook.