9 Reliable Tips for Buying Used Furniture at Thrift Stores

Give Furniture a Wiggle Test

You should make sure that thrift shop furniture can tolerate leaping, spills, and other mishaps because kids may be rough on furniture.

Check for Functionality

Certain furniture components may swivel, open, close, and carry out more operations. To ensure nothing sticks, open and close doors and drawers and inspect furniture otherwise. 

Think of Repurposing Old Furniture

Almost everything may be made from anything else. You can use an old cradle to build a planter, a dresser to construct a bathroom vanity, or a door to make a table.

Be Honest with Yourself

Some fixers like to take out old staples, reupholster antique chairs in fresh fabric, replace cushions, sand, stain, and do other repairs on furniture.

Look for Water Damage

Water damage has been seen on some furniture. Feel the wood with your fingers to see whether it bows or has any other problems.

Look for Bug Damage

Beware of thrift furniture with brittle, flaky wood or small holes, as it may be infested with beetles, termites, or carpenter ants. Check all sides thoroughly before purchasing.

Give Furniture a Smell Test

Generally speaking, while you are looking at furniture from secondhand stores, you want to use as many senses as possible.

Have a Budget

Put aside some cash specifically for buying used furniture. You never know what kind of person you might run into.

Keep Measurements in Mind

It's not always possible to prepare ahead when buying used furniture. When it's available, that is.