The Green Mountain Habitat for Humanity ReStore is a unique shopping experience because you never know what you’ll find. Our inventory is constantly changing, so once something is gone, it’s gone!
Our ReStores are a key part of our model because they help us raise money for building affordable housing in Northwest Vermont. Every dollar raised at our three ReStores helps us build more homes for hardworking, low-income Vermont families.
Thrifting has risen in popularity over the last several years, both for its environmental benefits and with the rising cost of living.
To get the most out of your thrifting trips, here are some tips for finding the best deals at the ReStore!
Be prepared
Arrive at the store early. We often restock the floor at the end of the day, so early shoppers likely will see new inventory first.
Make a list of what you need for your projects. Take measurements ahead of time, and then bring a tape measure to the store. If you forget, we have some at the register!
If you plan to purchase large items, be sure to have a vehicle to transport your item that same day, as we will only hold items for a short period of time. Visit our FAQ page for our policies.
Take your time
Look through everything when you’re shopping. Sometimes, items can be hidden behind other things. Inspect each item for its quality and condition.
Learn about items you are interested in
Learn markers of quality so you can easily spot valuable pieces. Look up unfamiliar brands or labels. The Vintage Fashion Guild’s Label Resource is a great tool for spotting vintage pieces.
If you’re interested in a specific style or era of clothing, furniture, or decor, familiarize yourself with common brands that make those items.
Hardwood furniture is better quality and will last longer than veneer. Hardwood will have the same grain all the way through, and furniture with a veneer will be made of plywood on the inside and feel less porous.
Natural materials are more expensive, regardless of whether it’s furniture or clothing. When you see natural materials, you’re likely looking at a higher quality piece.
However, it’s important to know about the quality of the materials. Cashmere, silk, wool, and cotton are natural materials, while polyester, nylon, rayon, and spandex are synthetic.
See the potential of items
You never know what you might find at the ReStore – that’s why it’s such a thrilling shopping experience. Furniture for sale at Habitat ReStore is in great condition as is, but some pieces that are perceived as outdated may get overlooked.
That’s where the creative DIYer can find their best inspiration. With a little ingenuity and elbow grease, you can transform almost any piece of furniture into something completely different, completely fun and completely exciting.
Of course, when purchasing used furniture – even at great ReStore prices – you should consider the whole piece, your furniture needs and your own abilities if you plan on turning it into your next DIY upcycle project.
Sometimes you can find exactly what you’re looking for, but don’t forget to look at items in a different light. For example, turn a snare drum into an end table, use old windowpanes as a headboard, and refinish an old door and use it as the top for a coffee table!
Visit all our locations!
Shop all three of our ReStore locations and make a day of it. Each outlet has different things – you never know what you’ll find!
Visit us regularly and you will be the first to know about new drops!
Follow us on social media
We regularly post about new items to the stores or about our sales. Follow our Facebook and ReStore pages for up-to-date information and inventory.
Visit often
Finally, don’t give up after one visit. Sometimes, you don’t always find what you’re looking for. The great thing about thrift stores is that the merchandise is changing and being refreshed. If you’re feeling discouraged, wait a couple of days, and you’ll likely find a whole round of new merchandise to shop through.
Visit our ReStore page to learn more about our hours and locations.
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