10 Things I Buy Secondhand (And Why You Might Want To, Too)
There’s something sacred about a secondhand find. It’s not just about saving money, though that’s certainly a perk. It’s about giving something a second life, honoring what’s already been made, and resisting the fast-and-frenzied culture of more, more, more. It’s about slow living, even in your shopping cart.
These are ten things I love to buy used, and how I choose them with care.
Cast Iron
An old skillet at a thrift store is a treasure, not a tragedy. Cast iron can be resurrected with a little elbow grease, hot water, and seasoning oil.
What to look for:
A smooth cooking surface (a little rust is okay!)
Older brands like Griswold or Wagner are especially dreamy
What to avoid:
Cracks, chips, or deep pitting — those can’t be fixed
Wobbly bottoms, or a warped situation (unless it’s going in a campfire)
2. Baskets
Woven baskets are both beautiful and practical. I use them for everything from toy storage to garden hauls.
What to look for:
Natural materials (wicker, rattan, seagrass)
Study handles and tight weaves
Unique shapes or vintage styles you wouldn’t find at Target
What to avoid:
Plastic-coated or brittle baskets that crack with age
Ones with odd odors that don’t air out (trust me on that one)
3. Pitchers & Crocks
I use vintage pitchers and ceramic crocks to hold fresh flowers and wooden spoons.
What to look for:
Thick, heavy pottery or enamel
Wide openings and chip-free rims
Glazes with charm (crazing is okay — it’s part of the patina!)
What to avoid:
Hairline cracks near the base or spout
Pieces with lead-based glazes (especially if they’ll touch food; and old red, orange, or bright yellow glazes)
4. Candle Holders
Secondhand candle holders bring both character and glow.
What to look for:
Brass, pewter, iron, or ceramic
Multiples that could form a little collection
What to avoid:
Painted finishes that may contain lead
Holders that wobble or tip (unless you love a fire hazard)
5. Overalls & Denim Jackets
Denim just wears better with time: softer, more forgiving, and already broken in where you want it to be.
What to look for:
Sturdy seams and no sagging at the knees or backside
Classic cuts that don’t scream 2001 (unless that’s your thing)
Brands like Carhartt, Wrangler, Levis, or Dickies
What to avoid:
Stains that haven’t faded with washing — they’re likely there to stay
Stretchy denim that’s lost its, well… stretch
6. Cowboy Boots
If they’ve been loved before, they’ll love you right back. Worn leather molds to your feet, and a little scuff just adds character.
What to look for:
Real leather (check the lining!)
Solid soles with minimal wear at the heels
A size or half-size up is sometimes best — especially if you wear thick socks
What to avoid:
Deep cracks in the leather or peeling soles
Boots that are too tight in the toe — cowboy boots don’t stretch much sideways
7. Children’s Books (and Books for Me!)
I always check the children’s shelf and the poetry section first!
What to look for:
Vintage hardcovers with beautiful illustrations
Series books (especially for kids) to build up slowly
Editions with handwritten notes or inscriptions — little treasures
What to avoid:
Moldy or musty books (a sign of water damage)
Loose pages or broken spines — unless you’re up for a DIY repair
8. Puzzles
You usually only do a puzzle once — why pay full price for it? Thrift stores are full of them, often for just a couple dollars.
What to look for:
Unique themes (vintage art, botanicals, maps)
Wooden puzzles for kids — they’re more durable
Sealed boxes (if you’re lucky)
What to avoid:
Boxes with obvious water damage
Puzzles that have been taped shut with no note (missing pieces are the worst heartbreak)
9. Stainless Steel Pots & Pans (for Mud Kitchens!)
I don’t use these in my kitchen, I use them in my kiddo’s. Thrifted cookware makes the perfect setup for mud pies and leaf stews. Best of all? It won’t rust, even after countless backyard “recipes.”
What to look for:
Stainless steel with no sharp edges or dents
Small pots and mini skillets for little hands
Bonus points for lids or matching utensils
What to avoid:
Teflon or non-stick coatings — they wear out fast in the wild
Rusty handles or warped bottoms
10. Glass Insulators
These are my favorite find! Once atop telephone poles, they now sit on my shelves catching the afternoon sun. I use them as bookends, paperweights, and conversation starters.
What to look for:
Clear, blue, or green glass
Embossed markings or dates
Smooth bases if you’re using them on wood furniture
What to avoid:
Large chips or sharp edges
Ones that are too cloudy to see light through — clarity makes them shine
Final Thoughts
Every thrifted item is a chance to slow down, spend thoughtfully, and fill your home with stories instead of stuff. These aren’t just secondhand goods, they’re little acts of stewardship and creativity. And more often than not, they’re just waiting quietly on a dusty shelf, hoping to be useful again.
