BABES IN TOYLAND: a playful thrifted haul

I want my kid to have cool and educational toys just like the next parent, but the cost of raising a child these days is pretty staggering, and toys from department stores are SO expensive. If it was a choice between essentials and toys, we’re obviously going to pick diapers. But thrifting makes it so I don’t have to choose. We recently SCORED on toys at Thrift Town, and figured we’d give you all the scoop.

1. PLAN FOR SALES.

Toys that are larger/quality and would be on the more expensive side ($5+) are now manageable on sale days. This name brand wooden/wire/mirrored rolling activity center ended up only costing $2.99.

 

2. BRING BATTERIES.

A great educational toy is only great if it WORKS. Even if you find it on a sale day, it’s still a waste if it doesn’t function properly. Bring batteries, or if you’re in a pinch, ask an employee - they often have batteries to test toys/electronics. This awesome name brand educational music-bubble bath toy only cost us $2.99 (and my daughter LOVES it!)

3. KNOW YOUR FIX-ITS.

Be practical and realistic about the fixability of any flaws or defects you find. The fabric stacker above had a few external stains on it, and smelled a bit like it had been around someone who smoked. Because it was all fabric, I decided a stain pen and a spin through the washer should make it like new - and I was right! $1.99 well spent.

4. THINK AHEAD.

So, we came on sale day, and brought batteries, and know we can just give it a quick wipe-down and it’s good to go…. but this toy is way too advanced for my daughter — she’s only 10mos old and definitely not reading yet. This is the kind of toy (and deal!) that you buy now and save for when she is learning her letters. Age bins are amazing — I added this awesome toy to her toddler bin in the garage, and am stoked for her to use it later.

5. CLEAN & CLASSIC

Happy meal toys & cartoon characters will come and go, but some toys are classic, quality and worth having for kids and then grandkids. Keep an eye out for those types of toys over the trendy cheesy toys. Classic & colorful xylophone: $1.99

6. PIECE PERFECT.

Anything that is a set - it is worth it to open up the box/package and make sure it has all of it’s pieces. Thrift Town is usually really great to only put out complete toy sets, but always double check. We were thrilled to find this brand new complete set: #1-10 interlocking floor foam numbers for $2.99

 

Here’s our little love Olive, having a BLAST with her learning/singing piano.
We followed all the above rules and seriously scored: $5.99 for weeks of music, dancing and learning.

Thanks for all the fun, Thrift Town, I’m off to play with my girl!

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Have you found great toys for your littles at Thrift Town?
Tag us in your posts on Facebook, Pinterest or Instagram: @thrifttown

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Kari Shipman is thrifty, eco-conscious, and knows the importance
of supporting local charities. She has been our featured blogger
since we started the blog in 2010, and has a serious passion for
fashion. Kari owns her own Fashion Consulting Business, Juniper
James and is very involved in her community. She lives out her
passions in Northern California with her wonderful husband
Charles, and their baby girl Olive.