subject: Affordable Housewares [print this page] Most people think of a thrift store as a place to get pre-owned clothes, shoes and accessories. While most thrift shops do have all those items, many also have an incredible selection of used housewares. From plastic sippy cups to hand blown vases, secondhand shops can be a treasure trove of ideal housewares.
I have always bought my silverware used. I prefer a variety of attractive items to a matching set and I actually take pride in my mix matched collection of knives, forks and spoons. Having a variety of styles of utensils means that I have a spoon that is my favorite for eating cereal and another that best suits a big bowl of ice cream.
Metal is easy to clean germs off of so they are a safe buy. Whenever I buy silverware, I give it a double bath in boiling hot soapy water. This ensures that anything worrisome is thoroughly and undoubtedly eliminated.
It turns out my unique collection of secondhand eating utensils actually contains a few jewels. A friend recently noted that a particular spoon, knife and fork all had similar markings. He researched them and found them to be antiques! I could have sold them for a dozen dollars each, but I decided to keep them instead because they are some of my favorite utensils. I had no idea I'd been eating with such expensive tableware!
As I mentioned, plate sets are my weakness when it comes to kitchenware shopping. I have a four piece ceramic set that looks stunning when set with my unique silverware. I bought this set when I first moved to my current home. It was a housewarming gift for myself to help me settle into my new abode. It is still my favorite plate set to serve guests on.
Another beautiful plate set I found used I gave to my brother's wife as a birthday gift. She is an avid used shopper, too, and was impressed that I had found such a unique and valuable set. It had just the airy, flowery vintage design that she loves and it cost me less than $20!
The set of wine glasses I bring out when I host dinners with my friends are also secondhand store finds. Each slim, elegant glass cost me a dollar and only needed a hot rinse to get them to gleam. I proudly display them in my dining room when they aren't in use. They look absolutely lovely in the sunlight!
Whatever it is you need for your home, check out the thrift store near your house before buying new. You will be surprised and impressed at the variety and quality of the items for sale.
