Consignment sales are a great way to maximize your family clothing budget. If you are new to consignment shopping, here are a few tips to start saving.
Take a Closet Inventory
Go through your kids’ closets and make sure you know what you have. Don’t forget that bin of hand me down winter clothes in the basement. Write down needs, sizes and colors. Think through clothes that will be needed for band concerts, dance classes and holiday programs.
Shop Early
Many sales will offer the chance to shop before the public by signing up to volunteer to work a shift, consigning a certain amount of clothes of your own or even purchasing an admission ticket.
Shop Priority Items First
I always go to shoes first. They go fast, and they are my most expensive purchase if I have to buy them new. I also check for cleats, dress shoes and snow/rain boots. If you need winter coats, Halloween costumes, swim suits or sleep sacks – head to those areas first to get a good pick of the inventory.
Be Choosy with Brands and Condition
While you can pick up discount brands for even more discount, cheap clothes just don’t wear as well. But, if you go for premium brands at discounted costs, you’ll get more bang for your buck in the long run. Grab a few Old Navy T-shirts for play or back up for daycare, but if you want them to last through a season or a few kids, stick to brands like Hanna Andersson, Mini Boden, Nike, etc.
Don’t Forget Non-Clothing Categories
Consignment sales are also a great place to find books, board games, baby and toddler toys and sporting goods. Don’t forget seasonal items like Halloween costumes that often have been only worn once.
Check Your Cart Before You Pay
There are usually clothing racks for you to put back items you don’t want. Make sure you didn’t grab too many of one category. Also make sure to confirm sizes and check for stains. Just because it’s used, doesn’t mean it can’t add up! Make sure you’ve hit your priority items and stayed within your budget.
Manhattan Area Consignment Sales
Little Britches Consignment Sale
October 7; 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
National Guard Armory
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Rhea Lana – Topeka
September 24-30
West Ridge Mall
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Here We Grow Again – Topeka
October 22-28
West Ridge Mall
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Kids Closet – Salina
August sales
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