Thrift stores used to be the place where you could score incredible deals. A few dollars could buy a winter coat, a stack of books, or clothes for growing kids without stretching your budget.
Lately, though, I’ve noticed something that completely changes the thrifting experience.
On a recent trip to my local Goodwill, I found a pair of Carter’s pants for one of my daughters priced at $14.99. Out of curiosity, I checked the original retail tag that was still attached. They had sold new for just $19.99.
A few aisles later, I spotted a used jacket priced at $34.99. After looking it up online, I found the exact same jacket originally retailed for about $45. Paying nearly full price for donated clothing simply doesn’t make sense.
I’ve been thrifting for years, and these weren’t isolated examples. More and more, I’m finding donated items priced so high that buying them new during a sale often costs the same—or even less. While not every thrift store operates this way, it’s become increasingly common at many large chains as shoppers continue to voice frustrations about rising secondhand prices.
Here are some of the items I now think thrift stores price far too high.
Brand-Name Kids’ Clothing
Children outgrow clothes incredibly fast, which is why thrift stores have always been one of the best places to shop for them. Unfortunately, recognizable brands like Carter’s, Nike, Hanna Andersson, and Mini Boden are often priced so close to retail that waiting for a department store sale makes far more financial sense.
Related: Money Lessons Every Parent Should Start Teaching Kids
Winter Jackets and Coats
Outerwear has become one of the biggest sticker shocks at many thrift stores. It’s not unusual to find used jackets priced at $30 or more, even though many retailers regularly discount brand-new coats at the end of each season.
Shoes
Quality shoes can absolutely be worth buying secondhand, but not when they’re heavily worn and only a few dollars cheaper than buying new. Athletic shoes, especially, lose cushioning over time, making high thrift store prices difficult to justify.
Everyday Jeans
A used pair of jeans shouldn’t cost nearly as much as a new pair during a department store sale. Between clearance racks and outlet stores, it’s often possible to buy brand-new denim for the same price or less.
Small Kitchen Appliances
Coffee makers, blenders, toasters, and air fryers often come with surprisingly high price tags despite lacking a warranty. Since you usually can’t verify how well they’ve been maintained, paying close to retail isn’t worth the gamble.
Books
Used books used to cost a dollar or two. Now it’s common to find paperback novels priced at several dollars each, even when the same titles are available online or at library book sales for much less.
Related: 6 Books Thrift Stores Are Always Hoping You’ll Donate
Coffee Mugs and Glassware
Seeing a donated mug priced at $5 or $6 always surprises me. Unless it’s a rare collectible, everyday drinkware is among the most commonly donated items and shouldn’t command boutique pricing.
Furniture That Needs Work
A scratched dresser, worn dining chair, or stained coffee table shouldn’t command premium prices simply because it’s made of solid wood. If buyers still have to sand, paint, or repair it, the price should reflect the extra work required.
Electronics
Many thrift stores now price electronics based on similar listings online, yet most items haven’t been fully tested and are sold as-is. Paying near-retail prices for something that may not even work is a risk many shoppers aren’t willing to take.
Related: 12 Old Electronics That Are Now Considered Vintage
Designer Clothing
I understand why authentic designer brands cost more, but many stores now simply look up the original retail price instead of considering condition, age, or what the item actually sells for. Many shoppers have noticed thrift stores using online asking prices rather than realistic resale values, leaving racks full of items that sit unsold for weeks.
