FROM THE VAULT BUT APPROPRIATE FOR THIS WEEK SINCE IT'S THE FIRST BIG WEEK OF CONSIGNMENT SALES:
Here are some tips that will hopefully help you score some great deals and save some money:
1. Always set a budget. Limit yourself to a certain amount of cash.
2. Make a list. Be very detailed.
You may want mulitple Easter outfits. Look for groups of holiday clothing because adorable items go quick.
3. Know clothing brands.
You don't want to pay $5 for a Garanimals shirt that's $2.50 brand new at Walmart.
I saw two name brand sweaters at a recent sale. The seller wanted $12.50 for each. The sweaters were new with tags. The tag read $8.98 clearance price.
You also don't want to overpay for brands like Jumping Beans, Circo, Kid Connection, Carter, Faded Glory, Sonoma, Arizona and Old Navy. All of these brands are found at retail stores on sale. Max amount I pay for any of these items is $1. It has to be in really good condition too.
4. Purchase clothing in a size larger than what your child wears.
Because clothing shrinks after washing. Remember you are buying used clothing.
5. Inspect your items. Look for stains, holes, rips, pilling, fading and zippers working properly.
Any of the above may be acceptable if you're looking for play clothes.
Since I'm anti-stain, I'm very picky.
6. Inspect Handmade items: Even if you are not a seamstress you can tell when things are poorly made. Check hem lines, seams, buttons, zippers and embellishments. What you are looking for: loose stiches, loose buttons, choking hazards and quality.
7. Don't feel pressure to buy. Sometimes you may enter a sale and not find one single item you need or like. Thank the workers for allowing you to look around and leave. It's acceptable and polite.
1. Know new purchase prices before you buy used.
EXAMPLE: I actually saw a very used infant walker at a consignment sale marked $25. Brand new it's $21.97 at Walmart. NOT A DEAL.
Also - If you're only saving a few dollars buying something used then it's probably better to wait and buy it new.
2. Car seats expire after 6 years. Most people don't know this. They are also not to be used again after wrecks.
You hope the seller is honest about the wreck thing. But you can check on the date. Look under the lining and read the labels. A manufacturer date should be included. If not try to get a worker to contact the seller and ask how old the seat is.
Things to look for:
Buggy covers. I bought one for $4. Retail is $40
Strollers
Outdoor toys
Holiday outfits.
Got any tips?
READER SUBMITTED TIPS:
From Katie A.