Money Saving Tips: Second Hand Doesn't Always Mean Second Best!

Written by Lisa on Monday 19 June 2006

Since we have had children, and I have left work, things have been tight in the Family Of Five household. Its hard to afford all the luxuries we once enjoyed and still pay the bills and keep our bank balance in the black.

Thankfully over the last five years I have become a bit of an expert on all things second hand. I love shopping in charity shops, and very often get clothes and toys for the kids for a fraction of the original price. My best buys were when i discovered I was pregnant with Daniel. I had already given away all Jakes baby clothes, pram, moses basket, bouncing chair ...everything!

Thankfully since I was a regualr to our local charity shops, once I found out that I was expecting a baby boy, I asked the shop volunteers to watch out for suitable items. The next time I visited, the ladies in one shop had saved me 3 huge black bin bags full of baby boy clothes, all like new, and all top quality brands and labels. I paid a ridiculous price of £10 for the lot. Daniel is still wearing these clothes. I picked up his stroller for £5, his Moses Basket (with stand) for £3 and his bouncing chair for £2.50.

I also find car boot sales invaluable  for childrens items. I am proud to say that I have never bought Rachel or Jake a new bike or scooter, I have gotten all of theirs for less than £8 each at a boot sale. Last week I found beautiful football bedclothes, curtains, lamps and a bin for Jakes room, they all cost me £6 and he is thrilled with his 'big boy' bedroom.

Many people often look down their noses at used clothing and household items, but just think of how much wear a baby actually gets out of their clothes. I know that our kids very often wear an item once or twice, before it becomes too small. It is a sin to throw items like this away.
Think of how much money you waste on buying items new, and as they say time is money. How long do you have to work to earn the money to buy these things. To me it seems sensible to pay less for certain items when I can, and in doing so I can afford to work less, stay at home with my children, and spend my life where I actually want to be. Instead of working 40 hours a week, to buy the best designer labels for my children, the trendiest bicylce or the latest game.
Summer is the season for Car Boot Sales, they are springing up everywhere. So go out, have a look, and pick up a bargain. i guarantee if you try it once, you will become an addict like me!