While garage sales usually offer the cheapest prices on clothing and children’s items, there are some downsides to doing the bulk of your shopping there. Probably the most significant downside is that garage sales can be hit or miss; you never know if you’re going to find what you’re searching for, especially if you are looking for a specific item.
Consignment sales definitely have the upper hand in terms of variety of items offered. If you are unfamiliar with how consignment sales work, Kristin has written a helpful article on how to benefit from them either as a shopper or a consignor. Every sale is different, but I’ve been to four different sales and found at least a handful of items we need at each sale. Because admission is usually free on the last day and many items are half-price, I tend to wait until then to do my shopping, but if you want the most selection and you plan to knock out all your shopping in one trip, I recommend going on the first day. If you are a consignor or a volunteer, most sales allow you to pre-shop before the sale is open to the public. Also, if you plan to shop the first day of the sale, make sure to check online or in your city’s free baby or child magazine (eg. Kansas City Baby) to see if there is a free admission pass available.
In addition to being a great way to outfit your kids inexpensively for the next season and stock up on some gently-used toys or maternity clothing, you can also give yourself a pat on the back because by shopping at consignment sales you are making an eco-friendly choice. You are reducing the amount of energy needed to manufacture new kids’ clothing and toys and reusing pre-loved items which contributes to a healthier planet and a happy checkbook, too.
If you aren’t sure about the sales available in your area, please check out our directory here. This directory is a work in progress so please leave a comment if we don’t have your favorite local sale listed. The Kids Consignment Sales website also has a directory available online with many but not all sales listed by state. If you have never been to a consignment sale before, I highly recommend that you find one in an area near you and check it out.
