Indiana Thrifters Reveal the Things They’ll Never Buy Used
Where Do YOU Draw the Thrift Line? Indiana Listeners Weigh In
Thrifting is having a moment and honestly, I get it. I have always enjoyed thrifting, now more than ever because the joy of a good thrift find is unmatched. However, that can go both ways and I don't mean in a good way.
A vintage jacket? Yes. A barely-used home décor piece? Absolutely. That random item you didn’t know you needed but suddenly can’t live without? Into the cart it goes. But let’s be honest… for every great thrift find, there’s at least one thing sitting on the shelf that makes you pause and go, “Okay, who donated this… and why?”
That’s what got me thinking: where do we draw the thrift line?
So we asked our listeners, and let’s just say — the responses were strong.
The “Totally Fine” Category
A lot of people said clothes are fair game. Jackets, jeans, sweatshirts — especially if they’re in good shape. Jewelry also made the safe list. Unique pieces, vintage finds, and fun accessories? Most people are on board.
Dolls were a maybe for some depending on condition. (Although a few listeners said certain dolls give off “haunted energy,” so proceed at your own risk.)
And surprisingly? One person even joked about thrifting a hot air balloon. Which honestly, I get it, you can't trust it.
The “Hard No” List
Now here’s where people drew the line.
Worn-out shoes were a big no. If they’ve already molded to someone else’s feet, listeners said they’re staying on the shelf.
Mattresses? Absolutely not. Pillows? Sheets? Blankets? For many people, that was too personal.
And then came the hygiene items — toothbrushes, underwear, socks, bras, and makeup. That was a unanimous “nope.” The idea of pre-owned personal care items was enough to make people cringe.
Kitchen items were split. Some said a crockpot is fine if it’s cleaned well. Others said they just couldn’t do it.
Food? Also a hard pass for most.
So… Where’s Your Line?
At the end of the day, thrifting is about saving money, being sustainable, and finding treasures. But everyone has their limit. Some people are fearless thrift warriors. Others have a very firm “new only” list.
So now we’re curious — what’s the one item you would never buy secondhand?
Because somewhere out there, it’s probably sitting on a thrift shelf right now.
16 Items People From Indiana Would Not Thrift
Gallery Credit: Callie Sue