Secrets of Shopping Kids' Resale Stores

Resale shopping is one of those venues that people often are reluctant to try.    As a parent on a budget, I've checked secondhand shops out a few times and found a lot of things I'd never want to dress my kids in.  Old t-shirts from discount stores with pilling and faded stains aren't exactly something anyone wants to pay for.  But hidden among the junk is usually at least a couple of great buys. You just have to know the secrets.

Be prepared.  Most kids' resale shops will buy your unwanted items.  Taking a little time before you shop can save you money in the long run - these stores will take your used clothes for cash or credit, making your new purchases cheaper or even free!  Here's how it works:  The night before you go in, search through your kids' closets and pull out anything that's outgrown or unwanted.   Freshly wash everything and fold it all neatly, packing away anything you want to save for future children.   Presentation is key, so take a good look at what's left, and make sure it's free of stains, lost buttons, or other problems that would cause the store to reject it, and pack everything up into a box.   A tip: some resale places say they buy clothing from all seasons, all year round.  While that may be true, I always do better when I bring in winter clothes in the fall and summer clothes in the spring.   While you're at it, you might want to search out other kids' items, too...are there movies your kids don't watch anymore?   Has Candyland been neglected for Monopoly Junior, and are those Bob the Builder DVDs gathering dust?  Wipe everything down and pack it up neatly.