Antique Finds in a Thrift Store + 10 Tips for Thrifting Like a Pro

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Discover unique treasures in Antique Finds in a Thrift Store + 10 Tips for Thrifting Like a Pro. Learn why shopping secondhand is smart, see what antiques I scored, and get 10 expert thrifting tips!

On my latest thrifting adventure, I walked away with some amazing antique finds in a thrift store, and I couldn’t wait to share them with you!

Finding antiques in a thrift store doesn’t happen every day, but when it does—oh, it’s a very good day. There’s something magical about spotting that special, one-of-a-kind piece tucked away on a dusty shelf, waiting for a new home.

Updated Post from: July 28, 2020

My Favorite Antique Finds From This Trip

A Darling Little Wooden Shelf

This charming shelf had me at hello. I first saw it and almost bought it during my last visit, but I hesitated. When I returned and saw it still there, I knew it was meant to be! With its sweet little drawers and curved design, I knew it would make a perfect accent piece in my kitchen. Sometimes, second chances do work out.

Antique Mason Jar – 1858

You all know my love for vintage mason jars. This one is a stunner—with its wavy glass and original metal lid, and the year 1858 embossed right on the side. I won’t be storing food in it, but it’s going to make the perfect decorative accent. These kinds of antique jars just make my heart sing!

Old Wooden Document Box

This unique crate-style box was $15, and I simply couldn’t leave it behind. After some research, I believe it may have once been used to hold important documents or small heirlooms, dating back to the 17th century. Now that’s a story! I’m planning to use it in my home office—maybe to store photos or writing supplies. The possibilities are endless with antique storage boxes like this one.

How to Clean & Care for Your Antique Finds

Once you score a great antique find in a thrift store, cleaning and caring for it properly is important so it lasts for years. Here’s how I care for the kinds of pieces I usually bring home—like mason jars, wooden boxes, and small furniture treasures.

Antique Mason Jars

• Clean gently: Hand wash using warm water and a small amount of mild dish soap.
• Avoid dishwashers: The heat and agitation can damage old glass and metal lids.
• Skip food storage: Use antique jars strictly for decor or display, especially if the inside isn’t perfectly clean or the seal isn’t safe.
• Preserve the lid: If it has an original metal lid, gently wipe it with a damp cloth and avoid submerging it.

Old Wooden Boxes & Crates

• Dust first: Use a soft brush or cloth to remove dust and debris from crevices.
• Clean with care: Mix a mild soap solution with warm water. Use a slightly damp (not wet) cloth to wipe it down. Dry immediately.
• Nourish the wood: Apply a little furniture wax or wood conditioner if the wood looks dry or faded.
• Avoid soaking: Never soak or pressure wash antique wood—it can cause warping or splitting.

Small Antique Furniture (like shelves or stools)

• Wipe down surfaces: Use a microfiber cloth with a mix of warm water and mild soap.
• Spot clean hardware: Use a soft toothbrush to gently scrub old knobs or hinges. Avoid harsh chemicals on aged metal.
• Preserve character: Don’t over-sand or refinish unless necessary—signs of age add charm and authenticity.
• Stabilize if needed: Use wood glue or small brackets to repair wobbly joints, but keep original parts when possible.

Bonus Tip:

When in doubt, less is more when cleaning antiques. Preserve the patina and natural aging—part of the piece’s story and value!

A Quick Guide: How to Spot Real Antiques vs. Reproductions

When you’re out thrifting for antiques, it can be tricky to tell what’s truly vintage and a modern reproduction made to look old. With some know-how, you can spot the real deal more confidently. Here are some quick tips to help you identify authentic antiques vs. newer lookalikes:

How to Spot Real Antiques:

• Check for signs of age: Look for wear in natural places—edges, handles, corners—not uniform distressing.
• Inspect the joinery: Real antiques often use dovetail joints or hand-cut nails instead of staples or modern screws.
• Look for maker’s marks: Turn items over and check for stamps, engravings, or labels that can indicate age or origin.
• Feel the weight: Older materials like cast iron, solid wood, and real brass are usually heavier than reproductions.
• Examine finishes: Antique finishes are typically uneven or worn with time. Reproductions may have a uniform, “faux aged” look.
• Check for handcrafting details: Slight imperfections or tool marks can signal a handmade piece, which is common in genuine antiques.

Final Thoughts…

There’s a certain thrill in finding antique pieces in a thrift store—the kind you can’t get from buying something brand new. These old pieces carry stories, and they help you tell your story in your home. For just $32, I walked away with three meaningful, beautiful pieces that will serve both as decor and conversation starters. And that’s the real magic of thrifting.

If you love posts like this, follow along for more thrift store hauls, decorating ideas, and antique treasure hunting tips. In the comments—what’s the best antique you’ve ever found in a thrift store?

I will say this was a fun-filled trip to the thrift store! What do you think about the treasures I purchased? Leave a comment below & tell me what you think!

If you want to follow along on our home restoration/renovation plans and all of our exciting antique & thrift finds, be sure to check out Linen and Wildflowers on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest! And don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter to receive updates.

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