50 People Show Off Their Best Finds While Thrift Shopping At Goodwill Bins And The Items Are Absolutely Worth More Than Its Price

Thrift stores and online marketplaces for used goods have flourished in recent years. It would appear that everyone finds what they're looking for, from commercial resellers to antique aficionados, frugal consumers to adventure enthusiasts who adore the hunt for something unusual and precious.

The regulars at charity stores, including those at Goodwill, know all the good spots to score unique used items. Items are often stored in huge containers rather than being hung on pegs or shelved.

Actually, there's a subreddit called "Goodwill Bins" on Reddit where thrift store junkies and bargain seekers can get together to talk about the amazing things they've discovered in those big blue bins. No matter if you're a regular shopper at secondhand stores or a seller on eBay, you've definitely heard of Goodwill.

Did you realize, though, that Goodwill operates a different kind of store? Goodwill outlet stores are also called Goodwill buy, Goodwill weigh and pay, or Goodwill bin stores.

One-of-a-kind treasure-hunting opportunities can be found at Goodwill outlet outlets. However, there are a few items, such as clothes, that can be treated as an exception and placed in their own designated containers.

Merchandise is brought out in big blue containers, and customers have to rummage through them to discover the good stuff. You can scroll down to see some of the best finds people have.

1. "Scored this light up canopy for my reading nook!"

Reddit/JessHex

2. "Found all of these shoes at the bins!"

Reddit/yasegura

3. "Cute miniature tea set, all the pieces were there and in perfect condition."

Reddit/whitl0ckian

The Psychology of Thrift Shopping

Thrift shopping can be a fascinating experience that taps into various psychological principles, such as the thrill of the hunt and the joy of discovery. Research from the University of Chicago indicates that the satisfaction derived from finding a great deal can trigger dopamine release in the brain, enhancing overall mood and feelings of accomplishment. This phenomenon can create a positive feedback loop, encouraging individuals to continue seeking out thrift shopping experiences.

Moreover, the environmental benefits of thrift shopping can enhance feelings of social responsibility and connectedness to community, further boosting emotional well-being.

The Psychology of Thrift Shopping

This article showcases the thrill and satisfaction many experience while thrift shopping. Dr. Michael Roberts, a behavioral economist at the University of Minnesota, explains that thrift shopping taps into psychological principles, such as the concept of 'retail therapy.' This phenomenon suggests that shopping can provide a temporary boost in mood and well-being, particularly when individuals find unexpected bargains.

Research published in the Journal of Consumer Research reveals that the excitement of finding a unique item can lead to increased feelings of happiness and accomplishment. This sense of discovery often fosters a deeper emotional connection to the purchased items, making them more meaningful.

4. "First time to the bins. I spent $48."

Redditor continued, "I am a former preschool teacher and have my own daycare now. Most of what I bought is for my daycare."

Reddit/Otherwise-great1994

5. Lucky!

Reddit user shared, "I was checking out a backpack at the Goodwill Bins and someone left their AirPods in it! Couldn't have paid more than $1 for them."

Reddit/MWTB-DLTR

6. Nice job!

An online user stated, "Found this oak cabinet (suspected old microwave cart) at the bins for $3 a little while back. Just added some new hardware, cleaned it up and installed LED light strips and now it is my bar."

Reddit/kahuna1342

The concept of nostalgia also plays a significant role in the appeal of thrift shopping. Psychologists have found that nostalgia can evoke positive emotions and foster a sense of belonging. For many, discovering vintage items can trigger fond memories, enhancing the emotional value of the shopping experience.

Incorporating mindfulness into the shopping experience can enhance the joy of discovery, allowing individuals to fully appreciate the moment and connect with their finds on a deeper level.

Moreover, thrift shopping can also reflect broader social and cultural trends. As sustainability becomes more important to consumers, many are turning to thrift shopping as an eco-friendly alternative to fast fashion. A study from the Journal of Business Research highlights how consumers' motivations to shop sustainably are driven by both environmental concerns and the desire to express individuality through unique finds.

This shift in shopping behavior not only promotes sustainable practices but also encourages creativity and resourcefulness in personal style.

7. "Yay! Perfectly functioning Roomba at the bins WITH the charger still attached?!"

Redditor added, "$4! (My cat can't tell if she likes it or not)."

Reddit/breathequilibrium

8. So pretty!

"First time at the bins and I’m addicted! Patagonia, YETI, J Crew sweater blazer, and 100% cashmere sweater," u/beigeyellow said.

Reddit/beigeyellow

9. Hopefully there are no missing pieces.

"What did I get myself into!? Also mini desk vacuum, does it get any better," confused OP stated.

Reddit/lionsrawrr

Building Community Through Thrift Shopping

This practice also highlights the importance of community and social interaction, which are crucial for emotional well-being. Research indicates that social connections can significantly impact mental health, providing support and fostering a sense of belonging. Thrift stores often serve as community hubs, offering opportunities for interaction and connection.

Participating in community thrift events or volunteer days can enhance social networks and create a sense of shared purpose, further enriching the thrift shopping experience.

Practical Tips for Successful Thrift Shopping

To maximize the thrift shopping experience, it's essential to approach it with an open mind and a clear intention. Setting a budget before shopping can help individuals avoid impulse buys that lead to buyer's remorse. Research from the Journal of Consumer Psychology suggests that having a budget can enhance satisfaction with purchases, as it encourages thoughtful decision-making.

Additionally, going into thrift stores with specific items in mind can streamline the shopping process, making it more enjoyable and productive.

10. For only $1.50!

"Bins treasure. Lock was broken and needed some extra care but could not pass up this leather beauty," anonymous user shared.

Reddit/BobShrunkle

11. "Cookie jar and a music box."

Reddit/BobShrunkle

12. "Found an Hermes scarf in the bins this weekend, couldn’t believe it!"

Reddit/OliverLily320

Furthermore, developing a keen eye for quality and value can significantly improve thrift shopping success. Familiarizing oneself with different brands and materials can enable shoppers to identify hidden gems more effectively. Research suggests that consumers who are knowledgeable about products are more likely to make satisfying purchases and feel confident in their decisions.

Engaging with store staff to gain insights about new arrivals or upcoming sales can also enhance the experience, fostering a sense of community within the thrift shopping environment.

13. Great find!

"$315 Tika Leather Duffle. Scored For $10," Redditor posted.

Reddit/Whyistheskygray

14. "Just found a 1945 WW2 Ike jacket at the bins moments ago!"

Reddit/SmellySockSmeller

15. Cute!

"Two Kitchenaid mixers for $22 total. GW airport bins and GW Milwaukee (OR) bins," OP stated.

Reddit/ntkwwwm

16. That blanket and cat is meant to be!

"$2 for the faux fur blanket...stray cat was free, " OP posted.

Reddit/fawnie_lou

17. "Found a bin full of vintage Pendleton, all made in the USA virgin wool pieces!"

Reddit//TedDansonFool

18. "My wife's find a couple days ago."

Redditor added, "In a small cloth pouch at the bottom of a mostly clothing bin. Stamped 925 sterling and a real turquoise stone!"

Reddit/MushyMarlin

19. "Vintage quilt, courtesy of the bins!"

Reddit/m34dowlark

20. "Exquisite" is the perfect word.

Reddit/torchic442

21. Wow!

User u/BrianDuggan said, "Spiewak Golden Fleece N3-B Flight Parka from the bins! These retail at over $800!"

Reddit/BrianDuggan

22. "Kate Spade in the Bins???"

"Both in really good shape. I'm not even sure how stuff ends up in the bins and not the store," OP continued.

Reddit/audioear

23. "Look at this find! A vintage 70s 4/6 boho prairie lace dress."

OP added, "It won't fit anyone in my household but I had to buy it the price was crazy good, so I bought it to resell! (Yes it's still available!)"

Reddit/reddit.com

24. Fantastic!

"Rescued from the bins! Pair of Robert Sonneman for George Kovacs Feather Lamps," OP shared.

Reddit/Crherniman

25. "Goodwill bins come through for me again."

Redditor added, "It still had tags from REI on it. I'm super excited because I needed a new daypack."

Reddit/lionsrawrr

26. "Found within my first hour at the bins , my best $3 pickup ever."

Reddit/Brand8175

27. Disney!

Redditor excitedly posted, "Could not believe my eyes when they set this out in the toy section!!! It’s a 1977 Disneyland Weebles playset!"

Reddit/360inMotion

28. "Wait what's that?"

Reddit/lionsrawrr

29. "Found an awesome never used vintage carbon steel Chinese cleaver and used it to prepare the most delicious BLT."

Reddit/lionsrawrr

30. For reaaaal?

"Someone boxed up their Playstation collection and donated it. I was lucky enough to be standing at the right place at the right time."

"Ps2, psp, psp vita," OP stated. Also, a commenter said that it's probably a mom helping their college kid 'clean'.

Reddit/lionsrawrr

31. "Found today in Oklahoma."

Reddit/Gwendilynrose78

32. "Vintage 1940’s picnic basket!"

Reddit/maddydyko

33. "Found a Pendleton wool coat that someone put back. $4"

Reddit/noice-smort99

34. So much win!

Redditor shared, "Randomly scrolling through caligraphy at 1am and thinking, hmm that looks cool maybe worth trying. Soon after the bins provide a random assortment of fountain and caligraphy pens."

Reddit/lionsrawrr

35. Awesome!

"Found this lil house / jewelry box this weekend! My fave part is the garage door that opens into a drawer," Redditor captioned.

Reddit/AnaisInJune

36. This is alarmingly good!

"Picked Up This Cute Flip Clock Today At A Local Thrift Store For 50 Cents. Works Perfectly!"

Reddit

37. "Outerwear finds from the bins."

Reddit/rockstar_not

38. "Autographed Jane Goodall print for $3 at the bins!"

Reddit/puff_puff_paint_19

39. Minimalist items

As mentioned by OP, "Something something the simple things in life. Couple of my favorite finds that see daily use."

Reddit/lionsrawrr

40. Scarves to your beautiful.

"My silk scarf collection from the bins. Can’t believe how little I paid for such pretty things," u/justicebeaver34 posted.

Reddit/justicebeaver34

41. "Dewalt 18 v SCORE"

Reddit/deadcoroner74

42. Lovely!

Disney fan posted, "Found this Disney Parks exclusive dress in the bins! They no longer sell this one I saved it from the landfill and found it a new home with a Disney lover."

Reddit/teenytinyytaylor

43. The blender version of Nokia.

Redditor u/lionsrawrr posted, "Two months ago I found my white whale, a vitamix. Two days ago I found a second one! Guess I'm a collector now?"

Reddit/lionsrawrr

44. Nice dress.

"I've been going to (and loving) the Denver bins for a long time but just discovered this sub after posting my latest treasure. Yesterday, I found a beautiful vintage dress that fits like a glove."

Reddit/Reality_Rose

45. "Throwback to elementary school computer lab days in the 90s."

Reddit/lionsrawrr

46. "Found a Pokémon binder at the hardline full of first edition Pokémon cards Haul."

Reddit/speakerjunkiee

47. Pendleton

OP happily stated, "A couple weeks ago I saw someone post in here that they’d found a Pendleton wool blanket at the bins, and I’d been sulking ever since. Until I found my own!"

Reddit/m34dowlark

48. "Big find today!"

OP continued, "Found some tropical teal dunks in really good condition just gotta clean em up and boom! New dunks for only $2."

Reddit/speakerjunkiee

49. "Found These At The Bins!"

Reddit/StinkyPinkyFingerz

50. "46lbs of electronics & games for $32.02!"

Reddit/MastaB

It's not wrong to buy cheap things especially if you have more important things to pay for your money. Nowadays, it is necessary to be practical and there is definitely no harm in buying things that others no longer need.

Aside from the fact that it saves you more money, it's also helpful for the environment by lessening waste. Just make sure all the items are cleaned before using them.

Psychological Analysis

This article highlights the multifaceted benefits of thrift shopping, from emotional satisfaction to sustainable practices. The act of discovering unique items can significantly enhance mood and foster a sense of accomplishment. Encouraging a mindful approach to shopping can lead to more rewarding experiences and personal expression.

Analysis generated by AI

Analysis & Alternative Approaches

In conclusion, thrift shopping not only serves as a source of joy and creativity but also reflects broader social trends towards sustainability. Psychological research supports the positive emotional impacts associated with finding unique items, enhancing the overall shopping experience. By employing strategic approaches to thrift shopping, individuals can maximize their enjoyment and satisfaction.

Analysis & Alternative Approaches

In summary, thrift shopping is not just an economic choice but a psychological experience that can enhance well-being. By understanding the emotional benefits of discovery, nostalgia, and community, individuals can cultivate a deeper appreciation for their thrift shopping adventures. Ultimately, these experiences can lead to greater fulfillment and emotional satisfaction.