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I used to do all my thrifting at regular Goodwill stores. It was always part of my routine to stop in, scan the racks, and maybe find a few decent pieces if I had the time. But then I found the bins, and it completely changed the way I thrift.

It doesn’t quite look like a normal thrift store. There were no neat racks or organized shelves, just rows of big blue bins filled with everything. Clothes, shoes, random household items, things that looked brand new, and things that had clearly been through a lot. It was all mixed together, and people were digging.

What the Bins Actually Are

The bins (also called Goodwill Outlet or Clearance Centers) are where everything that didn’t sell in regular Goodwill stores ends up. Instead of being hung up or displayed, items are rolled out in large bins and sold by weight. So instead of paying a set price per item, you’re paying by the pound.

It’s Not Your Typical Thrift Store

If you’re used to regular Goodwill, the bins are a completely different experience. There’s no real organization, and you’re not flipping through hangers; you’re digging through piles.

Every so often, they rotate in new bins. When that happens, people line up and wait until they’re given the go-ahead to start going through everything again.

Everything is so cheap that you can take more chances. You can really find solid pieces for next to nothing that would have cost way more at a regular thrift store.

Image Credit: **Goodwill of South Central Wisconsin**

What You Should Know Before You Go

If you’re thinking about trying the bins, it helps to go in with the right expectations. It takes patience, and you’ll be on your feet the whole time, so comfortable clothes make a difference.

Gloves aren’t always required, but they’re a good idea since you’re digging through a mix of everything.

Going in with an open mind helps too. It’s not the kind of place where you go looking for one specific thing; it’s more about seeing what you come across.