How I Find The Perfect Second Hand Gifts For My Kid During The Holidays

by Nicole | Nov 19, 2020 | Gift Guide, Shopping

My son Franco is four years old and does know the value of toys. If you hand him a brand new race car or the box that it came in he will most likely go for the box.

So far every holiday about 90% of Franco’s gifts are secondhand and because of that he has gotten some amazing toys! One year a friend gave us a Power Wheels because their kids didn’t play with anymore and another year I found an entire kitchen set with food galore for only $20.

I search all year around for toys I know he will love and as it gets closer to the holidays, he will pick 1 or 2 new toys that he really wants.

A few reasons I do is because like I stated before he has no clue, I love hunting for a good deal and dumpster diving is a hobby of mine. Yes, it is also environmentally friendly, but let’s face it- this year is hard for all families and this way of shopping can help relieve some financial stress.

Here are 10 ways you can shop for the perfect second hand gifts for your kids this holiday season.

1. Facebook Marketplace & Garage Sale Groups

First things first always check your local marketplace and garage sale groups. I have found a ton of great toys for Franco and mostly get his wardrobe from here also. You can haggle prices and do porch pickup which is my favorite. If you haven’t tried this yet give it a shot here.

2. Toycycle

This online shop has a wide variety of items, from baby to school-aged sized clothes and books and DIY kits! Use code ref9059438 for $5 off your first purchase.

3. OfferUp

This is your one stop family consignment shop. There are local deals and delivery options as well. You can narrow searches to find exactly what you are looking for.

4. Swoondle Society

Looking for some new threads for your little one? This great because you can to clean out old clothes and I return you get Trading Credits that can be applied to clothing and accessories on their website. Your first five items traded are free and that’s when you can decide which membership you want. The rate depends on how many trades you want to do. Check them out here and use code N84G6A to receive $10.

5. Poshmark

I joined Poshmark when they first started and they only sold women’s clothes. They now have expanded to and kids clothes and accessories and I am here for it! Use code NIDE28 and get $10 off your first order.

6. reCrib

This site is great if you are looking for larger items like a crib or toddler bed. You can search infant and toddler items in your area and check them out before buying. If you’re not completely happy with your purchase, return the item for a full refund.

7. Once Upon a Child

This store is one of my favorite consignment shops. When you go there, be sure to have some clothes, toys and gear ready to sell as well. While they go through your things and choose which items they are going to buy, you can shop for ‘new’ items and use your credit tax free. Find a location near you here!

8. Mercari

This marketplace is for old or used stuff that the seller doesn’t need anymore which means you’ll get the items at a fairly cheap price and save money. You can also make offers which is easy to do. Check them out here.

9. Toy Around

This app takes the guess-work out of toy buying. Their toys are sourced with the help of psychologists, discerning parents and kids themselves, helping your kids stay in ‘the zone’ where they can experience joy and contentment, so they can grow into their best selves. They believe too many toys at home can create domestic disorder and even confuse and adversely affect the developing psyche of children. In the long run, all those cluttersome toys end up in the trash. They encourage to swap, sell, or buy of preloved toys so we can be one step closer to a better cleaner environment for generations of children to come.