With back to school just around the corner, restocking your kids wardrobe is surely on your to-do list. While some of our kids haven’t grown much, they still all want something fresh and new to wear the first few days back to school. Here are my thoughts on How To Get Back To School Clothes Cheap Or Free. Not only is it possible to get your children great new or gently used clothing for completely free, it is possible to create entirely new wardrobes of brand name clothing in the process.
How to Get Back to School Clothes Cheap or Free
REVAMP HAND ME DOWNS: Check with friends, cousins, neighbors or older siblings for good quality used clothing that can be updated, dyed a new color or embellished for a whole new look at no or little cost.
SHOP VINTAGE THRIFT SHOPS: Vintage looks are always popular, and heading out to your local thrift shops for fun “finds” is a great way to go. Watch for half price tags at your local Goodwill and find things like brand name jeans, shirts and bags for $1-$2 each.
SHOP ONLINE GENTLY USED SHOPS: We love ThredUp for great quality and great prices on brand name clothes for the kids. Brands like Gap, Abercrombie & Fitch, Aeropostle and more can all be found at up to 80% off original prices. Another awesome source is of course Ebay. While you have to bid on some items, the large lots of kids clothes can often come down to only $1-$3 per item and have great name brand items included. Watch for high rated sellers and start bidding.
FREECYCLE: Routinely in our local community people will have bags of clothes to be picked up for free on freecycle. Sometimes they are older styles and not in great condition, but it’s the rare hidden gem in the bag that is worth the trip to pick up and sort. Nothing beats free clothing – and with a bit of repair and updating you can easily grab great new pieces.
SIGN UP FOR REWARDS PROGRAMS: If you have a JCPenney in your area, signing up for their email program and rewards program is a great way to snag free clothing. If you shop regularly, you will get emails and coupons in the mail for things like $10 off a $15 purchase and occasionally a coupon for $10 off ANY purchase. Hit the sales and clearance racks for the best deals and get new with tag items for nothing out of pocket!
CRAIGSLIST: This site can be great for checking out local free offers, clothing for sale or just the best lists of yard sales in your area. Not only can you find great deals on items that are gently used – much like freecycle you can find a steal of a deal hidden in a junk bag that will be worth the time spent looking.
FACEBOOK SWAP SHOPS: Dozens of groups on Facebook have cropped up over the last few years that are perfect for posting “in search of” requests, or buying someone else’s gently used items. Many times people will either have leftovers from yard sales or just need to get rid of excess and sell items at bargain bin prices. Watch closely and be the first to respond for the best deals.
No matter what method you choose above on how to get back to school clothes cheap or free, make sure to always read descriptions well, check for stains/holes or tears and be aware of who you are meeting and where. Rather than inviting someone into your home, meet in public places and make sure to go with someone else so you are never alone. Get great deals and often free clothing in excellent used condition just by taking the time to look a bit in your local area.
Jamie says
Great advice! I would of never of thought to look in these places…and with 2 teenagers it’s really hard not to go broke school shopping. I have a good feeling this year will be different. Thanks again!