Thrift stores are full of affordable home decor if you know what to look for.
Always Worth Buying
- Solid wood furniture: Easy to refinish and built to last
- Picture frames: Especially real wood or brass
- Glassware and vintage Pyrex
- Cast iron cookware: Rust can usually be scrubbed off and reseasoned
- Baskets for storage
- Books for styling shelves
- Original art and prints
- Brass candlesticks and decor
Think Twice
- Particleboard furniture: Often damaged and difficult to repair
- Upholstered furniture: Inspect carefully for stains, odors, and pests
- Mattresses and pillows: Best bought new for hygiene
- Cribs and car seats: Safety standards change, so buy these new
Styling Tips
- Group items in odd numbers
- Mix old and new pieces
- Use paint to unify mismatched finds
- Choose a color palette to keep rooms cohesive
With patience, you can decorate an entire home beautifully for a fraction of retail prices.