Seven Steps for Savvy Thrift Store Shopping

Everyone likes to save money and with the economy faltering, it's more important than ever right now.

One of the best ways to save money is to buy used items at local thrift stores, but how can you make sure you're getting good value for your hard-earned dollars?

Here are a few tips for getting the most out of your thrift store shopping trip.

1. Make a list of items you are looking for.

The goal of thrift store shopping is to buy used items at a cheaper price than buying them new at a store. Write down the items you will be looking for. It's easy to forget or overlook something if you haven't written it down. My family members will tell me items they are looking for, so I include those on my list.

If you don't see an item you are looking for, don't be afraid to ask if there is one in the stock room. Most thrift stores have more items than they have room for on the sales floor - everything else is stored in a back room. So don't be afraid to ask for a specific item - it might be back there.

2. Have in mind your top price for an item.

When I shop at thrift stores, I generally never spend more than $3-5 on an item, unless it is in especially good shape or I know for a fact it is worth more. For example, I know that at one retail store in my area, I can buy a brand new pair of jeans for my son for less than $10. At one thrift store I shop, jeans can be priced anywhere from $4.95 to $9.95. The price at that store usually isn't worth it for worn jeans, when I can buy them brand new for just a little bit more money.

3. Ask to try out electronic items and carry assorted batteries with you.

Examine closely all items that require electricity or batteries. Ask store personnel to plug in items so you can verify that they work. Pop in some batteries and see if the item works. If store personnel won't accomodate your request, pass on that item.

4. Closely examine all items before buying.

Check clothing for holes, missing buttons, stains, and tears. Check shoes for holes, shoestrings and damage. With appliances and other electronic items, look for frayed or damaged cords. Check for damaged or broken buttons, handles and attachments. Check to see if all attachments are with the item. There is nothing more frustrating than getting home to find something you just bought doesn't work or is broken beyond repair.

If the price is right, many items can be repaired - making it worth the purchase.

5. Ask about refunds or returns.

Most thrift stores have a policy of no returns or refunds (which is why it is important to examine all items before buying), but a few will accept a return for store credit. Ask what the policy is for each store.

6. Find out when the store puts out new merchandise.

Some stores put new merchandise on the floor throughout the day or early in the morning every day, while some only put new merchandise out on specific days of the week. Ask and make a point of being there on those days.

7. Get to know store personnel.

A smile and friendly "Hi, how are you" can go a long way in your thrift store shopping. If you're a frequent shopper, you will see many of the same faces over and over. Get to know them. Call them by name. While being friendly may not necessarily benefit your thrift store shopping, it will encourage someone else and possibly brighten their day. Don't discount the great feeling you'll get by being friendly as you find your bargains.

Follow these simple steps and you'll be saving money and bringing home great bargains in no time.