Thrift Stores - The Eco-Friendly Shopping Choice

Let me let you in on this - I love me my thrift stores! Nothing makes me happier on a sleepy Saturday than meandering around an old and new shop, looking for a diamond in the rough. And a cheap diamond at that!

I've pretty much given up retail shopping. It's too spendy, too crowded and the sameness makes me feel like a robo-clone. The only thing I still buy in department stores are shoes, socks and underwear.

Why shop thrift? First off, it's eco-friendly. You are not adding to the never-ending heap of stuff that's weighing down our poor earth. You are doing something called "pre-cycling" - which simply means using an old item in a new way.

Thrift store shopping is also fun. You can find one-of-a-kind, vintage items if you look hard enough. There's also a bit more of a community feel to a thrift store, which feels more comfortable and relaxed as far as shopping experiences go.

And Of course, there's the money factor. It's cheaper shopping thrift. And who doesn't like a bargain? Some clothes have been barely worn or not worn at all. Some stores have deals where you can fill a bag, for say, 7 bucks. Always check for specials that day as well, for extra savings.

I much prefer the mom and pop thrift stores though unfortunately, fewer and fewer remain. Some of the big ones (I won't name any names but they start with an S and end with an Army) seem overpriced at times and the quality has gone downhill over the years. You won't catch me paying $4 for a used t-shirt!

Perhaps some of you find the idea of wearing someone else's clothing unsettling. Well, first off, there's these handy, little inventions called "washing machines" that seem to do the trick. I like to hang my new, old clothes out on the line to get some air and sun on them. Besides, sitting on a bus is far less sanitary than a washed, used sweater...so get over it!

It's a tiny planet. There's too much stuff. If you're not going to save the world in a big way, then try in small ways. "Thrifting" is a fun and eco-happy alternative.