You may not know what to expect when walking into a thrift store for the first time. You might wonder if materials will smell musky, if there will be quality items, or if thrifting means racks of clothes you’ll never actually wear. We hear these myths all the time, especially from people who are new to shopping secondhand. At Big Reuse, we want to break down those assumptions and show you what actually happens behind the scenes so that you can feel confident in giving reuse a try.
Myth One: Thrift Stores Are Full of Junk
This is one of the most common myths, but very far from the truth. Thrift stores are full of high quality, unique finds, including pieces that were made years ago and are no longer produced today. These items often have character, craftsmanship, and history that newer products simply do not. Many donations are gently used, and some are even brand new, passed along by someone who no longer needed them.
Myth Two: Thrifting Is Only About Clothes
This is a myth that is heavily wrong. In many cases you can browse books, home goods, dishes, lamps, artwork, storage pieces, furniture, and appliances, all in one space. Thrifting is about creating a home that feels personal and lived in, not just filling a closet. When people realize they can thrift a dresser, a dining table, or shelving just as easily as a jacket, it opens up a whole new way of thinking about shopping.
Myth Three: Thrift Stores Smell or Are Unclean
Some secondhand items might have a scent, but nothing a simple wash or wipe down cannot fix. Just like buying something new, it is always a good idea to inspect items before taking them home. At Big Reuse, items are handled with care, and we encourage shoppers to check seams, buttons, zippers, and surfaces so they feel confident in what they choose. Thrifting is not about lowering your standards; it is about being thoughtful, creative, and informed.
Myth Four: Thrifting Takes Too Much Time
Thrifting can feel overwhelming at first, especially if you do not know where to start. But like anything new, it gets easier with practice. Once you learn what fabrics you like, what sizes work for you, or what materials feel sturdy, your eye naturally adjusts. Many people begin by simply adding a thrift store into their regular shopping routine. Over time, thrifting becomes less about searching and more about discovering.
Myth Five: Secondhand Means Low Quality or Unsafe
A lot of people assume used items are worn out or unreliable, especially when it comes to furniture or home goods. In reality, many secondhand items were built to last longer than what is mass produced today. Donations are sorted with care, and customers are encouraged to inspect items so they know exactly what they are taking home. Choosing secondhand is not about settling; it is about recognizing quality and giving well made items another life.
At Big Reuse thrift stores, shoppers can find well cared for clothes, furniture, home goods, books, and everyday essentials, all given a second life with intention. Choosing secondhand keeps usable items out of landfills, supports community programs, and makes space for pieces with character and history.
We invite you to explore what's available at our Gowanus Reuse Center at 1 12th St in Brooklyn (near the 4th Ave & 9th St R train or the Smith & 9th St G & F train stations) or our soon-to-be opened Bushwick Reuse Center/thrift store at 378 Troutman St in Brooklyn (near the Jefferson L train station). You can also help keep this cycle going by donating gently used items, including clothing, shoes, books, games, home goods, furniture, appliances, building materials, and e-waste (please note that our Gowanus location accepts a wide amount of items; our Bushwick location will only be accepting books, clothing, home goods, & accessories). Donations are accepted at our Gowanus location 7 days a week from 10 AM-5 PM; stay tuned for our confirmed Bushwick location times. READ OUR DONATION GUIDELINES to learn more.
Blog Post written by NYSERDA Fellow Tatiana Guerra.