I’m A Professional Thrifter: Here Are 15 Items I'll Never Buy

There’s something about scrolling through a friend’s wedding registry that makes my thrifty little heart twitch. A $30 plain white serving bowl from Williams Sonoma? Really? I’m telling you, there’s an entire world of gorgeous, high-quality, dirt-cheap home goods out there just waiting to be scooped up. And yet, people keep spending big bucks on things you can find for a fraction of the price, oftentimes in better quality, if you’re just willing to be a little patient. 

Don’t get me wrong; I’m not here to judge anyone’s shopping habits (okay, maybe a little). I’m here to share what I’ve learned after years of combing through thrift shops, estate sales, and flea markets. What started out as a need turned into a side hustle that brought in thousands, and now thrifting is simply a lifestyle I live by. There are absolutely items that are worth hunting secondhand—so much so that I can’t imagine ever buying them new. And then, there are things that I wouldn’t touch even if they were free. Some stuff just carries too much of an “ick factor,” and no bargain is worth that.

So, here’s my tried-and-true list of things I will never buy new (or used). Think of it as your thrifting cheat sheet: part money-saving guide, part public service announcement.

The “Never Buy New” List

If you’re running to Target or filling your Amazon cart with any of these items, I’m begging you to stop. Thrift stores are overflowing with them, often in styles and quality you simply won’t find on a big-box shelf.

1. Kitchenware (Serving Bowls, Glass Cups, Crystal)

You would not believe the treasures hiding in thrift store kitchen aisles. I’m talking thick, weighty crystal bowls that probably belonged to someone’s grandmother, fancy glass drinkware, and platters that look like they came straight out of a high-end catalog—all for under $10. Why spend $178 on a four-piece place setting from Anthropologie when you can thrift one-of-a-kind vintage pieces that last longer and tell a story?

2. Vases

Floristry trends are ever-changing; what’s “in” today will feel dated by next year. Meanwhile, thrift shops are veritable treasure troves of vases: oversized statement pieces, delicate bud vases, and funky ’70s glass in moody amber or forest green—all for pocket change. Unless you’re sourcing a specific, uniform look for an event, there’s really no reason to splurge on a brand-new vase.

3. Candlesticks or Candleholders

If you love tablescapes or hosting dinner parties, thrift stores are a goldmine for unique candle holders. Brass, silver, ceramic—you name it. A quick polish (or a hit of Rub ‘n Buff) and they’ll look like boutique finds. And don’t skip over the baggies filled with used candlesticks! It’s so fun to create different color palettes with them.

4. Tablecloths and Curtains

Here’s a secret: thrifted linens wash up beautifully. Vintage tablecloths often have better fabric quality than anything you’ll find new in stores today, and you can score curtains for pennies compared to buying new. If you’ve got basic sewing skills, you can even repurpose them into pillowcases, napkins, or other home projects.

5. Non-Upholstered Furniture

Coffee tables, bookshelves, wooden chairs—you can find solid, well-made pieces secondhand that only need a little sanding or a fresh coat of paint to feel brand new. I’ve snagged quality wood furniture for $20 that would’ve been $200 or more new, and it’s built to last. 

6. Picture Frames

Please, I beg you: do not spend $15–$30 on a frame from a big-box store. Thrift stores are overflowing with beautiful frames in every size imaginable. Here’s the hack: replace the old art, pop in a new matte to modernize it, and you’ve got a custom-looking frame for under $5.

7. Lamps and Lampshades

Good lamps are surprisingly expensive if you buy them new. But thrift stores? They’re packed with quirky bases that just need new wiring (which is incredibly simple!) or a fresh shade. Lampshades especially cost a fortune at retail, so why not thrift one and recover it with fabric you love?

8. Fabric (Hidden in Disguise)

Quilters, crafters, DIYers—don’t sleep on thrift stores. Need fabric for a project? Head to the dress racks, tablecloth section, sheet or curtain aisles. Vintage fabrics often have patterns and textures you can’t find new, and for a fraction of the cost. With Christmas coming up, I always look for velvet dresses to cut for ribbon!

The “Never Buy Used” List

Now for the flip side. Thrifting isn’t glamorous all the time. Some items are secondhand for a reason, and in my book, no amount of disinfectant or DIY magic makes them worth the gamble. Here’s where I draw the line.

1. Upholstered Furniture

Smells. Stains. Unknown histories. Trust me, I’ve tried, and it’s not worth it. Even if you think you can reupholster it, deep odors can be impossible to get out. And bed bugs? Don’t even risk it.

2. Beauty Products

If it’s touched someone else’s skin or hair, it’s a hard pass. Hairbrushes, makeup brushes, lotions…these are personal-use items for a reason. Start fresh for your own health and peace of mind.

3. Tupperware and Plastic Food Storage

Microwave stains, weird lingering smells, and potential BPA breakdown—it’s just not worth it. Buy these new so you know exactly where they’ve been.

4. Appliances

Yes, thrift stores sell toaster ovens and blenders for cheap. Sometimes you can find a score. Yes, sometimes they’re fine. But often, they’re there because they’re broken, outdated, or inconsistent. Plus, there may be mold hiding in that cute Keurig. If you really want to thrift an appliance, make sure it’s marked as “tested” and keep your expectations low.

5. Underwear and Other Intimates

This one should go without saying, but let’s just be clear: used underwear, bras, lingerie, and swimsuits are a firm no. I don’t care if it’s been doused in bleach; some things are meant to be bought new for a reason.

6. Rugs & Carpeting

This goes right up there next to upholstered furniture. I remember practically sprinting to score a free runner I found on Facebook Marketplace, but I realized very quickly it was not worth the effort to eliminate the odor and cat hair. To WayFair I go! 

7. Non-Stick Cookware (Scratched) 

Hard pass! Secondhand non-stick cookware may have hidden scratches or coating damage that you can’t see, which can cause harmful chemicals to leach into food. Its performance is also likely compromised, meaning it won’t heat evenly or release food properly, even if it looks fine. Totally not worth the risk. Cast iron, on the other hand, is another story.

The Bottom Line

Thrifting isn’t just about saving money; it’s about sustainability, style, and discovering unique items you’ll never find in a chain store. It’s one of the easiest ways to give your home character while keeping your wallet (and the planet) happy. But it’s also about knowing where to draw the line. Not everything belongs in a secondhand cart.

So next time you’re tempted to spend money for convenience sake, take a little detour. Wander through your local thrift shop. You might find something with more personality, more quality, and a better price tag. And when it comes to the items on the “never buy used” list? Trust me, your future self will thank you for splurging on new.