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Everybody loves a bargain, but when it comes to thrift store shopping there are a few 'bargains' to avoid. Not everything is better when it's cheaper... and while finding a deal at a thrift store or Goodwill can be fantastic, purchasing certain things can be more hassle (or expense) than they're worth.

The list below contains the things that I don't consider prime purchases for secondhand shops. Next time you're out thrifting and you find yourself picking up some of these items, give it a second thought before you buy.

Underwear and socks.
I know that there's someone out there who is going to tell me to grow up and get over the squickiness of buying used underwear. But there's also a huge population out there that agrees with me. Okay, I know that, just like other used clothing, underwear and socks can be thoroughly washed before being worn, and there really isn't anything gross about it. But I'm still a firm believer of buying these things new. If anything else, the feeling of "I am not wearing a single new, fresh item of clothing- even my underwear are used," should make you want to spend a few extra dollars on new.

If you are really strapped for cash, visit your local dollar store or outlet mall. You can usually get underwear and socks for a few dollars at places like these.

Winter coats.
The main reason I don't consider winter coats good thrift store purchases is simply because it's rare to find them. There will certainly be a rack of coats at your local shop, but if you try looking through them chances are you won't find much of a good selection. My theory is that because coats are expensive, once someone finds a good one they hold onto it for several years, so by the time it lands in the thrift store it is pretty well worn out or in bad shape. Also, many people realize how expensive these coats are, and they will give them to friends or sell them on Ebay before donating them to a thrift store.
Check Ebay if you're despondent about finding a winter coat but don't want to buy new. It isn't as convenient because you can't try them on, but most sellers will provide you with measurements if you ask. Check the measurements against a coat that fits you, and you should be able to score some pretty good deals.

Excessively worn or damaged items.
Unless you're a master seamstress (or good friends with one), buying items that require repair can be a double-edged sword. If you're looking for a specific rare item and you find it somewhere, then any small repairs that may be needed might be worth it. But in general, the bargain-hunter in you should stop you from buying things like jeans with broken zippers or sweaters with excessive pilling or loose seams.
I once purchased a great pair of jeans from Goodwill for $4.99. They were a perfect fit- but I didn't realize until I got home that the zipper was about to break. Once it did break, I took it to a tailor to have the zipper replaced, only to find it cost $24.99. Not so much of a bargain anymore.
Similarly, items that are truly worn out (unless you're looking for a vintage-style piece that shows lots of wear) aren't worth the bucks you're saving. The key here is NOT to look like you're wearing someone else's used clothing. Buying thrift is great, but there are plenty of deals on like-new items out there. You shouldn't be wasting your money on things that are worn out or ready to fall apart... or that look like they've been around since the 1990s.

Cosmetics and toiletries.
Trust me on this one: there are thrift stores that sell used cosmetics! If you haven't seen it yet, you'll just have to take my word for it. I went into a charity shop the other day and found a bottle of shampoo that was half-used. I recognized the name brand, but not the style of the label. That's because it was printed when I was five years old. I know: I checked the copyright date.
This one should be obvious. Aside from the point that old toiletries don't work as well as new ones (these items do expire), there's the very real danger of fungus or bacteria forming on used cosmetics and being transferred to your eyes or skin.
I don't really believe that any of you are out there buying this stuff... but I figured I'd better mention it, anyway. Again, if you're in the market for cheap shampoos or cosmetics check your local dollar store or outlet center. Please.

Armed with this list, you should have a good idea regarding what constitutes a thrift store find versus a thrift store flop. Next time you're shopping, stop and think about the item in your hand. Don't buy unless it's worth the cost, you love it, and it's a real deal. You'll know it when you see it.
-by bjp