Secondhand Gift Ideas
The holidays are incredibly wasteful as it is. Studies show Americans spend around $16 billion on unwanted gifts a year! Can you believe that?? And so many of those gifts get returned, donated or thrown out!
We can try to do our best to minimize waste by buying ethical and sustainable gifts, and by buying people what they need, but at the end of the day, buying presents is still creating something that didn’t already exist.
Shopping secondhand is a great way to practically eliminate the gift-giving waste as these items already exist!
I know, I know there is a stigma around shopping secondhand in general but it’s even worse when it comes to gifting secondhand. Let’s normalize gifting second-hand items this year! Here are a few ideas you can almost always find at the thrift store to help get you started.
Secondhand gift ideas:
1. Board games or puzzles
I have never bought a board game or puzzle new. You can always find these at the thrift store! Just be sure to check for missing pieces!
2. Mugs
Thrift stores are a GOLD MINE for things like mugs. You can always find something that will suit the person you’re shopping for!
3. Teapot
Perfect for the tea lover in your life. You can always pair it with a teacup and some of their favourite tea.
4. Knit sweater
Chunky knit sweaters also aren’t hard to find second-hand. Perfect for the homebody or fashionista in your life.
5. Books
If there’s one thing better than books, it’s old books. The smell, the texture, they’re just perfect. And any book lover in your life would agree.
6. Baskets (bonus if you can put together a little gift basket!)
Ah, baskets. Such a cute and useful gift. They can be used for storage and decor. You could even fill a basket with other treasures you find at the thrift store.
7. Picture frames
Picture frames are never in short supply, either. See if you can find some matching ones and maybe put a sentimental photo or two inside!
8. Homemade throw blankets or quilts
Homemade blankets, afghans and quilts are so fun and have so much character.
9. Candlestick holders
A classy and fun decor item anyone will love! Pair with some tapered beeswax candles.
10. Plant pots
The thrift store is filled with plant pots for the plant parent in your life.
11. Crystal or other tableware
For the new homeowner or hostess in your life who needs a set of fancy tableware just for special occasions.
12. Records
Records can be really expensive. If you have a friend or family member with a record player, records are always a great idea!
13. Collectibles
I’m sure we all have someone in our lives who collect something. Thrift stores are a great place to try and find unique collectibles.
Related reading:
How to have a zero-waste Christmas
Sustainable gift wrapping options
Let’s normalize giving secondhand gifts. There are so many wonderful treasures just waiting to be loved and cherished by your loved ones.
I hope you enjoyed these secondhand gift ideas! Please don’t forget to share this post and follow me on Instagram for daily low waste living inspiration!
