The short answer: children outgrow things fast, which makes secondhand one of the smartest ways to shop for them. Clothing, shoes for young kids, books, puzzles, and many toys are excellent thrift buys. Buy safety gear like car seats, helmets, and cribs new or from a trusted source, and always check recalls on baby products.
Kids can go through several clothing sizes in a single year. Paying full price for items worn a few months adds up quickly. Thrifting lets families save significantly while keeping perfectly good items out of landfills.
The Best Kids’ Items to Buy Secondhand
- Everyday clothing: kids’ clothes are often gently used because they were outgrown before they wore out.
- Special occasion outfits: dresses, suits, and holiday outfits are usually worn only once or twice.
- Outerwear: winter coats, snow pants, and rain gear are expensive new and plentiful secondhand.
- Books: picture books and chapter books are often very inexpensive at thrift stores and library sales.
- Puzzles and board games: great value, but count pieces or check for missing parts when possible.
- Costumes and dress up: thrift stores are a goldmine before Halloween and school plays.
- Sports equipment: cleats, balls, and gloves for sports kids may only try for one season.
What to Buy New or From Someone You Trust
Some items depend on a known history to be safe. Our guide on what not to buy at thrift stores explains the reasons in more detail.
- Car seats: they expire and may have hidden crash damage.
- Bike helmets: the protective foam can be damaged without visible signs.
- Cribs, bassinets, and infant sleep products: safety standards have changed, and some older products have been recalled.
- Breast pumps and bottle nipples: hygiene concerns make these better to buy new.
For any baby or child product, search the product name and model on a government recall website before you buy.
Shop One Size Ahead
The best thrift finds do not always show up the moment you need them. Many parents keep a bin for the next size up and buy great pieces whenever they see them. This is especially useful for seasonal items. Buying winter coats in spring or swimsuits in fall often means lower prices and better selection.
Check Toys Carefully
- Look for small parts that could be a choking hazard for children under three.
- Test anything with batteries at the store if possible, and check the battery compartment for corrosion.
- Be cautious with older painted toys, which may contain lead in paint made before modern regulations.
- Wash or disinfect plastic toys with warm soapy water and launder plush toys on a hot cycle when the label allows.
Inspect Clothing Quickly
Kids’ clothing takes more wear, so check knees, cuffs, and collars for holes and stains. Test snaps and zippers, since they are the most common failure point. Many stains on children’s clothing can be treated, but set in stains on light fabrics rarely come out fully. Our guide to cleaning thrifted clothes has tips for washing everything before first wear.
Where to Find the Best Deals
Children’s consignment sales, often held seasonally in community centers, can offer huge selections sorted by size. Garage sales in family neighborhoods are also excellent, and prices are usually negotiable. Compare your options in our guide to estate sales vs thrift stores vs garage sales.
Close the Loop
When your child outgrows clothes and toys, pass them along. Donate to a thrift store, sell at a consignment event, or swap with other families. You recover some of your cost and keep the cycle going. Learn more in how to donate to thrift stores.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to buy used kids’ clothes?
Yes. Wash everything before use and check for loose buttons or drawstrings on younger children’s clothing.
Should I buy used shoes for my kids?
Lightly worn shoes are fine for many children, especially for occasional use. For everyday shoes, look for pairs with even wear and supportive soles.
How much can families save by thrifting?
Savings vary by area and store, but secondhand children’s clothing commonly sells for a fraction of retail price, and the savings grow as kids move through sizes.