This post may contain affiliate links.

Thrifting has become more popular than ever, with many people turning to secondhand shopping to save money, reduce waste, and build a more distinctive wardrobe. But for beginners, it’s not always as simple as walking in and finding hidden gems.

In a recent Reddit post, one shopper shared how they were inspired by a family member to start thrifting, but quickly realized there’s a learning curve. They asked others for advice, and the responses turned into a surprisingly helpful guide filled with practical tips and honest lessons.

friends shopping — Image Credit: Deposit Photos

You Won’t Find Something Every Time—and That’s Okay

One of the biggest surprises for beginners is how inconsistent thrifting can be.

Many experienced shoppers pointed out that it takes patience, and not every trip will result in a great find. In fact, some said learning to walk away empty-handed is just as important as spotting a good deal.

“Don’t expect to buy something every time,” one user explained, adding that being selective helps prevent clutter and wasted money.

Touch Everything—Quality Matters More Than Labels

Another common tip? Get hands-on.

Seasoned thrifters say you can often feel quality before you even look at the brand tag. Natural fabrics like cotton, linen, silk, and wool tend to last longer, and once you get used to how they feel, it becomes much easier to spot well-made pieces.

“Touch everything,” one commenter advised, noting that fabric alone can tell you a lot about whether something is worth buying.

Sizes Don’t Mean What You Think They Do

If there’s one rule nearly everyone agrees on, it’s this: ignore the size on the tag.

Because clothing comes from different brands, decades, and styles, sizing can vary wildly. Many shoppers recommend checking sizes above and below your usual fit—and even browsing sections you might not normally consider.

Always Check for Damage (and Be Honest With Yourself)

It’s easy to get caught up in a “good deal,” but experienced thrifters say it’s important to inspect everything carefully.

From stains and missing buttons to worn-out fabric in high-friction areas, small flaws can turn into big regrets if you’re not prepared to fix them. Some shoppers admitted they’ve bought items planning to repair them, only to never follow through.

The key question, many said, is simple: Would you actually wear this?

Wash Everything—Immediately

This one came up again and again, and for good reason.

No matter how clean something looks, most thrifters say it should go straight into the wash as soon as you get home. Some even recommended using vinegar or specialty detergents to remove lingering odors.

Have a Plan—Or You’ll Overbuy

While thrifting can feel like treasure hunting, going in without a plan can lead to overconsumption.

Several users emphasized the importance of knowing your personal style, colors, and wardrobe gaps before you shop. Without that, it’s easy to buy items just because they’re cheap, not because you’ll actually use them.

“Overconsumption is still overconsumption,” one commenter noted, even when it comes to secondhand shopping.

The Best Finds Take Time

For many seasoned thrifters, the biggest lesson is that building a great wardrobe doesn’t happen overnight.

It takes time to learn what to look for, which stores have the best selection, and how to spot quality pieces quickly. But once you get the hang of it, many say it becomes second nature and even a bit addictive.