A few years ago I wrote a blog post; you can find it linked here. it was all about what Thriftmas is and why many people are embracing using the Thriftmas mentality for gifting.
Writing this post 2 years later, I wanted to update the list of some of our favorite places to thrift AND share that we still thrift a good amount of our kids’ Christmas presents! Bonus: I added a tween section!
A few tips for Thriftmas before you begin …
- Price check- always research what items go for retail on resale sites- you never know, maybe someone overpriced their items!
- Look for wipeable materials.
- Any fabric object can be placed in the sun to sanitize (the sun is a magical cleaner!).
- Ask for pictures or to test an item before purchasing!
- Post ISO (in search of) in groups before purchasing from a store!
I have revamped the Favorite Thriftmas Spots in the St. Louis Area List- check it out below:
- Facebook Marketplace: sometimes the best deals are found right on Marketplace- board games are one of my favorite things to find on Facebook Marketplace! I never pay retail for a game, this year i got the twins Zingo: Sight Words for $3.
- Once Upon a Child, Ballwin Location: great book selection, they check all electronic toys before they put them out on the shelves. Tip: check Marketplace first to ensure you are getting the best pricing.
- Goodwill: my favorite locations include Olive (141 and Olive), Manchester Road in Manchester, Manchester Road in Brentwood, and Town and Country (on Clayton Road). Bonus tip: learn the sale schedule to get the best deal- psst here is a tip!
- Sproutfitters in Wentzville: they have plenty of new in box toys at discounted prices, they also check all toys before placing them out on the sales floor.
- Savers, Crestwood Location: My favorite spot for books, all their books are buy 4 get the 5th free. Children’s books are priced at $1.59.
- St. Vincent de Paul, Manchester Location: My friend Rachel says this is her jackpot spot, always comes out with a deal!
- Ditto Resale: supports local education and has a great selection of kids clothes, books, toys, and gear!
- Kangaroo Kids in Rock Hill: Great toy and high-end clothing finds. Bonus: they have an awesome purchase online option even for used toys!
- Mommy and Me in Washington, MO: (I have not personally been here) a great place for good condition used toys and if you are building a cloth diaper stash!
- Offer Up/Poshmark: I have not personally used this app but it is one similar to Facebook Marketplace- you select your radius and search!
- Buy Nothing groups: there are a variety of buy nothing groups around the Greater St. Louis area, be sure to authenticate what you are getting- ask for pictures or videos to ensure an item is working, be safe about meetups!
- Mommy2Mommy Swap, West County Mom Swap, High End Mama STL, and other sales groups: there are a number of groups you can post an ISO (in search of) post in before purchasing new- you may be able to find someone in your area who is selling exactly what you are looking for!
Tween/Teen Specific Places:
- Uptown Cheapskate: follow their sale schedule (you can get incredible deals on Free People/Lululemon/Aerie and more!) There are locations in Ballwin, South County, and St. Peters- I personally love all 3 locations!
- Clothes Mentor: they have two locations in St. Louis, Ellisville and Ronnie’s Plaza. They have large racks of name brand clothing, shoes, and accessories!
- Goodwill: if you are looking for name brand finds (Vineyard Vines, Lululemon, Zara, Madewell, Abercrombie & Fitch) this location is usually a gold mine especially in the tween/teen sizes!
I love sharing and hearing about your thrift finds. Please don’t hesitate to send them my way @abbykristine16 and tag @stlouis_mom – Happy Shopping!
