Shopping for Home Decor: New & Secondhand on a Budget
In the last few months, I have been purchasing items on my wish list for home decor and intentional use. In this post, I will share my treasures, both new and secondhand, that I acquired on a budget!
I keep an ongoing list of items I am looking for on my phone. Keeping a list of items you want or need is a great way to stay organized. Because I shop on a Budget, I acquire items over time. I thought it would be fun to post about shopping for home decor, new and secondhand, on a budget. I have gotten with every piece I purchased on Facebook Marketplace, my local thrift store, Home Goods, Amazon, and Etsy.
Before I purchase something new, I check out my local secondhand shops. If I can’t find what I have been searching for, I will buy the item new. By shopping secondhand, you can find excellent-quality furniture and home decor for a fraction of the cost.
Now, when you shop for thrifted items, keep an open mind! You wouldn’t believe the unique finds I have come across for my home. Check out secondhand stores the next time you shop for home furnishings or decor. You will be surprised to find that you can save a lot of money in the process.
Shopping for Home Decor: New & Secondhand on a Budget
I am excited about these Online Marketplace purchases, Thrift Store Finds, and New Items I purchased over time. Because I am on a budget, I was so excited that I got great deals on my treasures.
Favorite Things I Purchased New & Secondhand
Baskets
I purchased the large basket on Facebook Marketplace. I had been looking for a large basket with a lid to store miscellaneous stuff at the end of the couch in my living room. When I received the basket, it was filthy. I gave it new life with a good scrubbing, mild dish soap, and warm water. Now it is as good as new.
For the last few months, I have had an idea to create a bill basket. Because my “home office” is in my dining room, I needed a place to access all my bills, checkbooks, and documents in one place. While browsing Amazon, I came across this basket that was the perfect size to store my folders. And it was in my price range, which makes it even better!
Planter and Platter
Although my home is filled with thrifted finds, I tend to add items from a big box store here and there. Home Goods is next to the thrift store, so I checked it out to see what new items they may have. I found this beautiful floral platter that would be perfect for my antique dresser in my bedroom.
I didn’t need another planter, but I really loved the style of this white one with carved designs. It was the perfect size for the new plant I had gotten a few weeks ago. So, I grabbed it!
Vintage Tea Cups & Cafe Curtains
My daughter and I went to a local thrift shop. There wasn’t much to pick from, but we did find some hidden gems. There is something so nostalgic about vintage tea cups. We came across these beautiful floral tea cups with saucers, which was an amazing find.
I love displaying them in my China cabinet. As I was rummaging through stuff on the shelves, I also came across a brand-new set of cafe curtains that were still in the original packaging. They will be perfect for my kitchen.
Picture Frames and Peg Rail
I look online when I can’t find what I am looking for when I go thrift store shopping. I needed a couple of frames and a peg rail for my laundry room, and Amazon had them at affordable prices.
I have a space in the laundry room that I knew would be perfect for hanging some things. So, I knew a peg rail would be perfect for hanging a basket, a clothes-pin bag, and a few of my antique hangers.
I usually find inexpensive second hand frames at my favorite thrift store, but lately, I have not seen any that match my aesthetics. So, I went online shopping and found a couple for a good buy.
Vintage Art, Tassels and Butter Pats
You can always be sure to find unique pieces on Etsy. With some time, you will always find unique items to add to your home decor. I was looking for something entirely different when I came across these two stacks of vintage butter pats. I’ve displayed the larger stack in my China cabinet and the other set I used to make one-of-a-kind magnets for my refrigerator.
The next item was a treat! I was looking for tassels to hang on the China hutch and Step Back Cabinet. I thought they were so beautiful. What I love about them is that they are handmade! I couldn’t decide on a color, so I bought four for a great price.
Lastly, I was looking for Vintage Art for wall decor and haven’t had any luck at the antique stores or thrift shops. Did you know that you can download Art to print at home? Well, I found a bundle of Art for the best price. This is an excellent option if you are on a budget for wall decor.
Helpful Tips for Cleaning Your Secondhand Items
Baskets and Fabrics: Start by brushing or wiping the surface with a soft cloth to remove dust and dirt. Then, use a mild detergent or specialized cleaner suitable for the material, applying it sparingly to avoid damaging delicate fibers or finishes.
- Spot Treatment for Stains: When dealing with stubborn stains on fabrics or wood, spot treat the affected area using a targeted stain remover or a mixture of mild soap and water. Test the solution on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t cause discoloration or damage. For baskets, gently scrub any stains with a soft brush dipped in soapy water, then rinse and air dry thoroughly.
- Proper Drying and Maintenance: After cleaning, ensure all items are thoroughly dried to prevent mold or mildew growth. For fabrics, air dry them in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight to avoid fading.
Wood Furniture: Wipe away dust and grime with a damp cloth, followed by a wood-specific cleaner or polish to nourish and protect the surface.
- Wood furniture should be dried promptly with a clean cloth to prevent water damage. Regular maintenance, such as dusting and occasional deep cleaning, will help preserve the beauty and longevity of your secondhand items.
Remove the Sticker Residue: Start by gently peeling off as much of the sticker as you can by hand. Be careful not to tear the sticker or leave behind more residue.
- Use Oil or Lubricant: Apply a small amount of cooking oil, rubbing alcohol, or WD-40 onto the residue. Let it sit for a few minutes to penetrate and loosen the adhesive.
- Scrape or Rub: Use a plastic scraper, credit card, or your fingers to scrape or rub away the loosened residue gently. Remember not to scratch the surface underneath, especially if it’s delicate or easily damaged.
8 Best Tips for Shopping for the Best Deals-New & Secondhand on a Budget
- Plan Ahead: Research upcoming sales, promotions, and events to maximize your savings. Make a list of items you need and prioritize them based on importance.
- Comparison Shop: Don’t settle for the first deal you find. Compare prices from multiple retailers, both online and in-store, to ensure you’re getting the best possible price.
- Sign Up for Alerts: Subscribe to email newsletters, follow social media accounts, and enable notifications from your favorite retailers to stay informed about special offers and exclusive deals.
- Utilize Coupons and Promo Codes: Look for coupons, promo codes, and discount vouchers before purchasing. Websites and browser extensions can help you find and apply these codes easily.
- Timing is Key: Take advantage of seasonal sales, clearance events, and holiday promotions to score significant discounts. Also, consider shopping during off-peak hours or days when stores may offer additional incentives to attract customers.
- Stack Discounts: Combine multiple discounts, such as store promotions, manufacturer coupons, and cashback offers, to maximize your savings on each purchase.
- Consider Refurbished or Open-Box Items: Explore refurbished or open-box options for electronics and appliances, which often come with significant discounts compared to brand-new products. Just make sure to buy from reputable sellers with return policies and warranties.
- Negotiate and Haggle: In some cases, especially when shopping in person or at local stores, don’t hesitate to negotiate prices. Polite bargaining can sometimes lead to additional discounts or perks, especially for big-ticket items or buying bulk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are commonly asked questions I often encounter when shopping for new and secondhand home decor on a budget. Furthermore, they will help you on your journey to creating a beautiful home on a budget!
Where can I find stylish yet affordable home decor items?
I always start with a mix of online and offline options. Websites like Wayfair and Amazon offer great deals on new items, while platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and the best online thrift stores can help you find unique secondhand treasures.
How do I ensure the quality of secondhand furniture?
When shopping secondhand, I thoroughly inspect items for any signs of damage or wear. It’s helpful to ask the seller about the item’s history and, if possible, see it in person before purchasing. Trust your instincts, and don’t be afraid to walk away if something doesn’t feel right.
What are some tips for decorating on a tight budget?
I love getting creative with DIY projects to transform inexpensive items into stylish decor. Repurposing old furniture, using peel-and-stick wallpaper, and swapping out hardware can make a big difference without breaking the bank. Also, shopping during sales and using discount codes can help you save even more.
How can I make my home decor look cohesive on a budget?
I focus on a consistent color scheme and style throughout my home. This doesn’t mean everything has to match perfectly, but having a general theme helps create a cohesive look. I also mix high and low-end items to balance my budget while achieving a polished appearance.
What are some must-have items for budget-friendly home decor?
In my experience, a few key items can really elevate your space without costing a fortune. Throw pillows, rugs, and wall art are great for adding personality—whether real or faux, plants can bring life to any room. Don’t forget to check secondhand stores for unique finds that can serve as conversation pieces.
Final thoughts…
Whether it’s antique shops, estate sales, or your local flea markets, you can find the best home decor items and solid wood furniture. With a little creativity, you can transform these timeless pieces into stunning additions to your home.
When shopping for home decor: new & secondhand on a budget, don’t forget to explore the best online thrift stores as well, where you can find hidden gems from the comfort of your own home. It’s a great time to embrace sustainable shopping and add unique character to your living space.
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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Interesting read. I like the steps you numberd to make sure you really can find the best deals. Thanks for sharing!
Thank you s9 much! I hopenit was helpful for you! 🙂