The holidays have a special way of making my wallet feel like it just ran a marathon without any training. Between gifts, food, and travel, the budget can get stretched thinner than my patience during a toddler tantrum in the mall. And then there are the decorations. The pressure to turn your home into a winter wonderland seen only in made-for-TV movies is real. Before you know it, you’ve spent a small fortune on items that live in a box for 11 months of the year.
There is a better way to deck the halls without draining your bank account. The secondhand market is a treasure trove of holiday cheer just waiting for a new home. You can find unique, high-quality decorations for a fraction of their original price. You will save money, and also create a home filled with character and stories, one pre-loved ornament at a time.
Check out this list of some of the best holiday items to find secondhand.
1. Artificial Christmas Trees
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An artificial tree can be a significant investment when purchased new. But at a thrift store, estate sale, or online marketplace, you can often find a perfectly good tree for pennies on the dollar. Many people upgrade their trees long before the old ones are worn out, meaning you get a nearly new item for a secondhand price. It’s a fantastic way to get a grand-looking tree without the grand expense.
When you bring it home, open the box and assemble it right away, even if it’s October. This gives you a chance to check for missing pieces or broken branches. You can fluff the branches, fill in any gaps with extra garland, and give it a good dusting. If it has a slight storage smell, a light spritz with a fabric freshener will do the trick.
Quick Tips:
- Inspect Before Buying: Check for a sturdy base and ensure all the branch sections are present.
- Easy Fixes: Don’t be deterred by a few bent branches; most can be reshaped with a little patience.
- Storage: When you pack it away, use the original box or a dedicated tree bag to protect it for next year.
2. Ornaments and Tree Toppers
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The ornament section of a thrift store during the holidays is a magical, chaotic wonderland. You can find everything from vintage glass baubles that belonged to someone’s great-aunt Mildred to modern sets that were impulsively purchased last year. This is your chance to build a collection that is utterly unique to you. Mixing and matching different styles creates a tree that tells a story, rather than one that looks like it was plucked from a department store catalog.
Scour the bins for glass ornaments, wooden figures, and anything that catches your eye. Tree toppers are another great find. An angel that looks like it has seen a few things or a star that has lost a bit of its glitter has more personality than a pristine one straight from the box. Clean them well, and take good care of them so that they last you several noels.
Quick Tips:
- Clean Gently: Wipe glass and plastic ornaments with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals that could strip paint or glitter.
- Repair Minor Damage: A dab of super glue can reattach ornament caps or fix small breaks. A little craft glitter can cover any scuffs.
- Look for Sets: You can sometimes find entire sets of matching ornaments in their original packaging.
3. Glassware and Barware
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Holiday gatherings often call for a festive beverage. Secondhand stores are brimming with beautiful glassware, from vintage punch bowls to crystal champagne flutes and colorful highball glasses. You can assemble an impressive collection for what you might pay for a single new set. Look for items with etched snowflakes, gold rims, or deep red and green hues to add a festive touch to your holiday bar cart. If you find a crystal glassware, grab it.
A large punch bowl is a fantastic centerpiece for a party. Fill it with a festive concoction, and you have an instant crowd-pleaser. Don’t forget to look for serving trays, cocktail shakers, and ice buckets. These items are often made with a quality you don’t see in modern manufacturing.
Quick Tips:
- Check for Flaws: Run your finger along the rim of the glasses to check for chips. Hold them up to the light to spot any cracks.
- Wash Thoroughly: Always wash secondhand glassware by hand with hot, soapy water before its first use.
- Mix and Match: Don’t worry if you can’t find a full set. A collection of mismatched but complementary glasses adds a charming, eclectic feel.
4. Holiday-Themed Linens
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Tablecloths, napkins, runners, and even dish towels with holiday motifs are common finds in thrift stores. These items add an immediate layer of festive warmth to your dining room or kitchen. Many are made from high-quality materials like linen or heavy cotton and have beautiful embroidery or patterns. Since they are only used for a short period each year, they are often in excellent condition.
Look for classic patterns like tartan, holly, or poinsettias. Even a simple red or green tablecloth can set the stage for a beautiful holiday meal. After a good wash, they will be ready to grace your table. This is an easy and inexpensive way to make your holiday dinners feel more special.
Quick Tips:
- Inspect for Stains: Unfold linens to check for any stains or discoloration. Some light stains can often be removed with a good spot treatment.
- Launder Promptly: Wash all secondhand linens in hot water (if the fabric allows) to ensure they are fresh and clean.
- Creative Uses: A festive tablecloth can be used as a tree skirt in a pinch, or a cloth napkin can be used to wrap a small gift.
5. Wreaths and Garlands
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Artificial wreaths and garlands are staples of holiday decorating, but their prices can be surprisingly high when bought new. The secondhand market is your friend here. You can find basic green wreaths and garlands that can serve as a perfect blank canvas. Even if a pre-decorated wreath isn’t quite your style, you can easily remove the existing decorations and add your own. You can repurpose it by removing old decorations, reshaping branches, and adding new elements with hot glue or floral wire.
Look for wreaths with a solid frame and garlands that are full and not shedding excessively. You can add fresh pinecones, new ribbons, or a string of battery-operated lights to give it a completely new look. It’s a simple DIY project that results in a custom decoration for a fraction of the cost.
Quick Tips:
- Fluff and Reshape: Wreaths and garlands can get compressed in storage. Spend some time fluffing the branches to restore their shape.
- Customize It: Use a hot glue gun to add new elements like ornaments, berries, or silk flowers.
- Secure Installation: Use sturdy wreath hangers for doors and removable hooks for hanging garlands to avoid damaging surfaces.
6. Holiday Mugs
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There is something delightful about sipping hot cocoa from a mug shaped like Santa’s head or one covered in dancing reindeer. Thrift stores are overflowing with holiday-themed mugs, often for a dollar or two each. You can start a fun collection for your family to use throughout the season or gather a set for a hot chocolate bar at your holiday party.
These mugs also make great containers for small gifts. Fill one with candy, a pair of festive socks, or a gourmet hot chocolate mix, and you have a thoughtful and inexpensive present. Look for mugs without chips or cracks, and give them a good wash before use.
Quick Tips:
- Check for Safety: Avoid mugs with cracks, as they can harbor bacteria or break when filled with a hot liquid.
- Gift Idea: A set of four mismatched holiday mugs tied together with a ribbon makes a charming and useful host gift.
- Beyond Drinks: Use festive mugs to hold candy canes, small utensils, or even as a mini planter for a tiny succulent.
7. Serving Dishes and Platters
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Holiday meals deserve to be presented on beautiful dishes. You don’t need a full set of expensive, holiday-specific china. Instead, look for individual serving platters, bowls, and plates with festive designs at your local thrift shop. You can find platters shaped like Christmas trees, bowls painted with snowmen, and plates with elegant silver or gold details. Sanitise them and enjoy the steal.
These special pieces can be mixed with your everyday white dishes to create a festive and layered tablescape. A single, large, holiday-themed platter can be the star of your buffet table, piled high with roasted turkey or a beautiful dessert. These pieces are often made with great care and can last for generations.
Quick Tips:
- Look for Quality Brands: You can sometimes find pieces from well-known brands like Spode or Lenox for a steal.
- Hand Wash: To preserve any delicate paint or gold leaf, it’s best to hand-wash these special dishes.
- Versatile Pieces: Look for designs in simple red, green, or metallic colors that can be used for various holidays, not just Christmas.
8. Baskets
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Baskets are incredibly versatile, and you can find them in all shapes and sizes at secondhand stores. During the holidays, they can be used for almost anything. A large basket can serve as a unique and rustic tree collar. A medium-sized one can hold throw blankets by the fireplace. A collection of small baskets can be used to create a beautiful Advent calendar or to hold party favors.
Look for sturdy baskets made from natural materials like wicker, seagrass, or rattan. You can leave them as they are for a natural look or give them a quick coat of spray paint in a festive color like gold, silver, or red. They are an inexpensive and stylish solution that gives your house a designer look and feel.
Quick Tips:
- Check for Damage: Make sure the weaving is tight and there are no major breaks or unraveling pieces.
- Clean Before Use: Use a vacuum with a brush attachment to remove dust and debris from the crevices.
- Line It: If you plan to use a basket for food or as a planter, place a liner inside to protect it.
9. Candle Holders
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Candlelight creates an instant atmosphere of warmth and celebration. Thrift stores are a goldmine for candle holders of all kinds, from elegant brass candlesticks to glass votive holders and ornate candelabras. You can group them together on a mantelpiece, line them down the center of your dining table, or place them on windowsills.
Look for holders made of brass, crystal, or interestingly colored glass. Even if they are a little tarnished, a good polish can make them shine like new. This is an easy way to add a touch of timeless elegance to your holiday decor without spending a lot. Teach your children candle safety, and don’t leave them in places where babies and pets can get to them.
Quick Tips:
- Polish and Shine: Use the appropriate polish for brass, silver, or other metals to restore their luster.
- Safety First: Always use a candle holder on a stable, heat-resistant surface and never leave burning candles unattended.
- Try LED Candles: For a worry-free glow, use battery-operated LED candles in your secondhand holders. They look surprisingly realistic.
10. Christmas Villages
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Those charming little ceramic houses, churches, and shops that make up a Christmas village can be quite pricey when purchased new. But at thrift stores and garage sales, you can often find individual pieces or even entire collections for a fraction of the cost. Building a village piece by piece from secondhand finds can become a fun holiday tradition.
Check each piece for chips or cracks. Some minor wear and tear can add to the vintage charm. You can create a magical display on a mantel, a sideboard, or under the Christmas tree. All you need is a little creativity and some fake snow.
Quick Tips:
- Test the Lights: If a house has a light cord, ask if you can plug it in to make sure it works. Replacement cords are usually easy to find if needed.
- Create a Scene: Use a white sheet or cotton batting as a base for your village to simulate snow. Add small bottle brush trees to complete the look.
- Start Small: You don’t need a huge village all at once. Start with a few favorite pieces and add to your collection each year.
11. Cookie Jars and Tins
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Holiday baking is a tradition for many, and you need a place to store all those delicious treats. Secondhand stores are fantastic places to find festive cookie jars and decorative tins. Look for ceramic jars shaped like Santas, snowmen, or gingerbread houses. Vintage holiday tins often have beautiful, nostalgic artwork that adds a touch of retro charm to your kitchen counter.
These containers are not just for cookies. You can use them to store baking supplies, candy, or even as a unique gift box for homemade goodies. Make sure to wash them thoroughly before use, and check that the lid on a ceramic jar has a good seal to keep your cookies fresh.
Quick Tips:
- Check the Seal: For cookie jars, ensure the plastic or rubber seal on the lid is intact to maintain freshness.
- Clean Carefully: Wash tins by hand and dry them immediately to prevent rust.
- Gift-Ready: Fill a vintage tin with homemade cookies or candy for a thoughtful and sustainable gift.
12. Books and Music
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Don’t overlook the book and media section of the thrift store. You can find beautifully illustrated editions of classic holiday stories like “A Christmas Carol” or “The Night Before Christmas.” Leaving a festive-looking book on a coffee table or end table is a simple and lovely decorative touch. Keep them away from direct sunlight and from dirty hands when they get to your shelf.
You can also find classic holiday albums on vinyl or CD. Playing this music is an easy way to fill your home with holiday spirit. These secondhand finds are inexpensive ways to add layers of tradition and nostalgia to your celebrations.
Quick Tips:
- Check the Condition: Flip through books to make sure pages aren’t missing or heavily marked. Check CDs and records for deep scratches.
- Decorative Stacks: Stack a few holiday-themed books together and tie them with a ribbon for a simple and charming decoration.
- Create a Soundtrack: Curate a collection of secondhand holiday music to create the perfect festive playlist for your home.
Your Next Thrifting Adventure
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Decorating for the holidays doesn’t require a huge budget or a trip to a big-box store. With a little searching, you can find unique and beautiful decorations that have a history and a story. The next time you visit a thrift store, antique shop, or browse an online marketplace, keep an eye out for these treasures. You’ll save money, reduce waste, and create a holiday home that is uniquely and beautifully yours. Happy hunting.