Charity shops are a treasure trove of hidden gems, where savvy shoppers can regularly pick up remarkable bargains at surprisingly low prices. It's all the more satisfying to know your purchases also support a worthy cause. Tales of dedicated charity shop fans unearthing rare finds regularly go viral on social media, and quite rightly so - any charity shop devotee will tell you that discovering a quality item at a knock-down price feels like an absolute triumph.
It's also entirely understandable to feel a little daunted when confronted with the sheer volume of items crammed across the rails and shelves of your local charity shop. So, whether you're a seasoned charity shopper or simply unsure what to keep your eyes peeled for, take a look at this handy list of items that are almost always a bargain to be snapped up when found in good condition.
The quality and quantity of glassware available in charity shops may well take you by surprise. From whisky decanters and vases to glasses and carafes, charity shops are reliably well-stocked with an impressive selection of glassware at a mere fraction of their original retail price. Those on the hunt for premium pieces should assess the weight of each item by hand – the heavier it feels, the higher the quality. Holding glassware up to the light is also a useful trick for spotting any cloudiness or imperfections. Bear in mind, however, that imperfections, known as 'inclusions', (particularly air bubbles) can occasionally suggest you've come across a genuinely antique piece. For those on the hunt for crystal glassware, lightly tap the item with your fingernail - it should produce the characteristic bell-like ring. Crystal glassware also casts a rainbow prism effect when held towards the light.
It's no surprise that designer clothing is one of the best bargains you can find in a charity shop, with shoppers frequently fortunate enough to unearth rare pieces at astonishingly low prices. There are likely considerably more designer garments tucked away amongst the clothing rails than you might imagine, so ensure you take a thorough look through the racks on your next charity shop visit - and don't immediately discount a piece just because you don't recognise the label. Expert advice includes keeping a watchful eye out for designer logos and labels - which can readily be checked via Google - and browsing charity shops in wealthier neighbourhoods, as these tend to have a better chance of receiving designer donations.
Leather is widely recognised for its resilience and sturdiness, making such items particularly commonplace donations. Leather boots, in particular, are amongst the best hidden treasures to be found in charity shops. For anyone concerned about the hygiene of purchasing second-hand footwear, professional cleaning or deodorising services are readily available, and the cost of doing so could still be cheaper than buying boots brand-new. Purchasing leather items second-hand from charity shops also provides a more ethical choice, helping to reduce animal suffering and the energy consumption associated with fashion and trends.
While an obvious and much-loved charity shop essential, it would be remiss not to include books on this list. Often, a thorough browse of the book section in charity shops will uncover an unusual or quirky title you might not have otherwise considered. It's not just big name books that carry high value either - look out for old non-fiction hobbyist titles, as some rare art and cookery books can be worth a small fortune. Picture frames are arguably the most underrated treasures in charity shops - and that's where the value lies. While brand new picture frames are easily available online at budget-friendly prices, they often lack quality and tend to feature uninspiring designs. Charity shops, in contrast, often carry a remarkable selection of distinctive and well-made picture frames.
