Reuse & recycle – but within limits
September 9, 2008 by Jennifer Chait
Filed under Eco Simplicity
The reuse & recycling of old goods is smart for the planet and your wallet; especially when it comes to big items like shelving and tables. However, there are times when that flea market / antique shop / thrift store find might be more trouble than it’s worth.
Follow these rules when shopping for big ticket used items…
Only buy what you need: Obviously this is a smart tip no matter if you’re buying used or new, but it’s soooo much easier to plunk down money for a low-cost chair than a high-priced one, so be careful. If you don’t need it, won’t use it, and can’t imagine it in your home, then don’t buy it simply because it’s cheap. Buy what you need and can use only.
Use high standards: Just because you’re buying used, don’t lower your standards. Would you buy a table with one leg broken off new? Well, it might not be smart to buy a table like that used (even at a lower cost). If fixing it seems daunting, don’t do it.
If it’s too broken, leave it: Following along with the above rule, anything out of your means to fix should be left alone. Trust me, if you haven’t been handy your entire life, that won’t change just because you buy something that needs fixed. Unless you’re committed to solving the problem that desk has, or know someone who can, don’t buy it. This is how folks end up with an attic full of “good deals.”
Be reasonable: You should be reasonable about price, but you should expect the same from the seller. Just because it’s used doesn’t mean it’s worth only pennies, so be realistic when bargaining with a seller. However, on the other hand, if time and labor is going to be involved and the seller won’t budge on the price, think twice.
I totally agree with these suggestions. As an avid Ebay buyer and seller, it’s so important to be weary of the quality and fix-ability of items.
Something I would add to the list of reusing and recycling it to keep an open mind. When I’m hunting for fabric at thrift shops for my online biz, I come across some amazing furniture and clothes that need a little mending…and may be well worth the extra effort.
Also, reusing things can evolve your creativity. I find that often my favorite household items are born out of broken furniture dilemmas.