Buying used can save you money, but there is one big obstacle to lowering your bills by shopping used. It is the “Ew” factor. Here is what it is, how to get over it, and the specific times when it can be your best friend.
Buying Used is Yucky (Ew)
When someone compliments me on something that I or my children are wearing, I usually reveal how little I spent on it. Not always, but since I am frugal, that is how I roll. There are two different reactions: the first is surprise that I paid so little, the second is a slight curling of the lips in disgust, if I happy to mention “GoodWill.”
The perception is that used items are broken, dirty or smelly or reserved only for those in desperate situations who can’t afford new.
The mental barrier of buying used can be powerful.
Getting Over It
The best way to get over the idea of buying used is to start looking at used items and see what is out there. Start small and stay within your comfort zone at first. For example, you can shop on ebay or craigslist, or just buy used from people that you already know. This can help you get over the ew factor.
Start with items that you won’t be wearing on your body and are not personal, such as tools and books, or items that are easy to clean, such as plastic toys, outdoor furniture or a set of dishes.
Later you can take a look around consignment stores, yard sales and yes, even thrift stores, where you can see that most of the time, merchandise is clean and organized, displayed in a brightly lit atmosphere.
Plenty of “non-poor” people shop used. It is why they aren’t poor in many cases. Buying used shouldn’t affect your self esteem. Many millionaires buy used because it is a better use of their money.
Some Ew is Okay
We are have our own personal ew factors, and that is okay. I just cannot buy any used underwear or shoes, even if it looks new and has tags. I’m never going to get over that one, so I don’t bother trying. A friend of mine doesn’t mind shoes but won’t ever by used bedding. It is a personal preference.
I also won’t buy anything at a shop that noticeably smells or feels dark and depressing. I figure at the worst, I miss out on a treasure, but I can live with that. It is a small price to pay for piece of mind that I’m not bringing home bed bugs. Now that would really be ew.