Top 15 Home Decor Items You Should Always Shop for at Thrift Stores

Are you a thrifting enthusiast looking to spruce up your home with unique finds without breaking the bank? Well, you’re in luck! Thrift stores are a treasure trove of hidden gems just waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re into DIY projects, love a good vintage piece, or simply enjoy the thrill of the hunt, there’s something for everyone at your local thrift store.

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In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the top 15 home decor items you should always keep an eye out for when thrifting. From furniture to glassware, artwork to linens, we’ve got you covered with valuable tips and tricks to help you score the best deals and elevate your home decor game. So grab your shopping bags and get ready to transform your space without breaking the bank.

Candlesticks

Brass candlesticks are a timeless classic that can add a touch of elegance to any home. When thrifting for candlesticks, be on the lookout for tarnished pieces that can be easily restored with a little elbow grease. According to Kenzie Marie Home, brass candlesticks are a must-have thrifted item that can be cleaned up with brass polish to bring them back to their former glory.

Look for brass candlesticks with a natural patina that can be easily cleaned.
Brass accents can change the decor of any space and add a touch of sophistication.

Books

Books are not only great for entertainment but also for decorating your home. Thrift stores often have a wide selection of books at affordable prices, making it easy to find unique hardbacks in specific colors or styles. Kate Decorates recommends taking the jackets off thrifted books to see if the binding matches your decor style.

Thrift store books are budget-friendly and offer a variety of options for decorating.
Look for hardbacks with matching bindings to complement your home decor.

Glassware

Why spend a fortune on wine glasses when you can score a chic set for a fraction of the price at a thrift store? Crystal and cut-glass coupes, tumblers, and wine stems are popular thrifted items that can elevate your dining experience without breaking the bank. Maplewood Mercantile suggests checking for chips in glassware by running your finger along the rim and base to ensure quality.

Check glassware for chips and cracks before purchasing.
Look for complete sets of glassware to ensure you have extras in case of breakage.

Wooden Bowls

Wooden dining accessories like bowls, trays, and salad bowls are a steal at thrift stores. Wooden items can be pricey when purchased new, so finding them secondhand can save you a significant amount of money. Look for solid wood pieces that can be easily cleaned and repurposed in your home.

Wooden bowls and trays are versatile items that can add warmth and texture to your space.
Thrifted wooden items are cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternatives to new purchases.

Furniture

Solid wood furniture is a must-have thrifted item that can add character and charm to your home. Look for pieces with substantial structures that can be easily refinished or repainted to suit your style. Thrift Diving recommends checking for quality construction in wood furniture, such as dovetail joinery and heavy, solid wood components.

Solid wood furniture is durable and timeless, making it a smart investment for your home.
Sand and clean thrifted furniture pieces before bringing them into your space to ensure they are free of pests and damage.

Tip: Inspect thrifted furniture closely for bugs or damage before purchasing.

Vases

Vases are versatile decor items that can add a pop of color and personality to any room. Thrift stores are a treasure trove of unique vases that won’t break the bank. Kapris Castillo recommends exploring thrift store vases to find one-of-a-kind pieces that reflect your personal style.

Thrift store vases are affordable and offer a wide range of options for every decor style.
Mix and match thrifted vases to create a curated and eclectic display in your home.

Artwork and Frames

Why settle for mass-produced artwork when you can find original, one-of-a-kind pieces at thrift stores? Unique artwork is a great conversation starter and can add a personal touch to your home decor. Thrifted frames can be easily cleaned and painted to match your decor style, allowing you to customize your art collection.

Thrift store artwork is budget-friendly and adds a unique touch to your home decor.
Use thrifted frames to showcase your favorite art pieces and photos in a personalized gallery wall.

Baskets

Baskets are versatile decor items that can be used for storage, organization, or as standalone decor pieces. From wicker to bamboo, wire to cloth, the options for thrifted baskets are endless. Look for baskets with unique textures and shapes to add visual interest to your home.

Thrifted baskets can be repurposed for multiple uses, such as storing blankets, pet toys, or plants.
Check thrifted baskets for any broken or damaged parts and repair them as needed for a seamless look.

Figurines

Figurines are versatile decor items that can be repurposed in various ways throughout your home. Whether you need bookends, candlesticks, or decorative accents, thrifted figurines can add personality and charm to any room. A quick coat of spray paint can transform a thrifted figurine into a stylish decor piece that reflects your personal style.

Thrifted figurines can be painted or repurposed to suit your decor style.
Mix and match thrifted figurines with other decor items to create a cohesive and curated look in your home.

China

Thrift stores are a treasure trove of unique dishes and tea cups that can add a touch of elegance to your table. Look for vintage patterns like gold-rimmed or toile, as well as classic white ceramic styles. Brands like Spode and Lenox can often be found at thrift stores, allowing you to build a beautiful collection of china for a fraction of the price.

Thrifted dishes and tea cups are affordable alternatives to new china sets.
Mix and match thrifted china patterns to create a personalized table setting for special occasions.

Lamps

Second-hand lamps are a cost-effective way to add ambiance and lighting to your home. When thrifting for lamps, focus on the base style of the lamp, as shades can easily be replaced or updated. Ensure that the electrical wiring is safe and up to current standards before purchasing a thrifted lamp to avoid potential hazards.

Thrifted lamps are affordable and can add a unique touch to any room.
Consider replacing thrifted lampshades with new or updated styles to match your decor.

Mirrors

Mirrors are a versatile decor item that can add depth and light to any space. Thrift stores often have a wide selection of mirrors in various styles and sizes, making it easy to find the perfect piece for your home. Consider antiquing a thrifted mirror to give it a vintage look that complements your decor style.

Thrifted mirrors are budget-friendly alternatives to expensive designer pieces.
Use thrifted mirrors to create a focal point in your space and enhance the natural light.

Trays

Trays are functional and stylish decor items that can be used to corral and display various items in your home. Thrift stores often have hand-painted or hand-carved trays that add a unique touch to any space. Use thrifted trays to hold candles, books, plants, or small decor items on your coffee table or ottoman.

Thrifted trays can add a decorative element to your home while keeping items organized.
Look for unique thrifted trays with intricate designs or patterns to add visual interest to your space.

Linens

Table linens are an easy way to update your home decor and add color and pattern to your space. Thrift stores often have a wide selection of fabrics that can be used to create table runners, napkins, pillow covers, or upholstery. Mix and match thrifted linens to create a cohesive and personalized look in your home.

Thrifted linens are affordable and can be used to refresh your home decor seasonally.
Layer thrifted linens with different textures and patterns to create a curated and personalized space.

Seasonal Decor

Thrift stores are a goldmine for unique and vintage seasonal decor items that can add a festive touch to your home. Whether you’re a collector of Christmas villages, antique candelabras, or vintage finds, thrift stores offer a wide variety of seasonal decor at affordable prices. Repurpose thrifted seasonal decor to fit your modern decorative style and create a cozy and inviting atmosphere in your home.

Thrifted seasonal decor is budget-friendly and adds a touch of nostalgia to your home.
Mix thrifted seasonal decor with modern pieces to create a curated and eclectic look in your space.

In conclusion, thrift stores are a treasure trove of unique home decor items that can elevate your space on a budget. By keeping an eye out for these top 15 thrifted items, you can transform your home with beautiful and affordable pieces that reflect your personal style. So next time you’re out thrifting, remember to explore the aisles for hidden gems that will make your home feel cozy and stylish. Happy thrifting!