{"id":5288,"date":"2023-09-11T14:17:48","date_gmt":"2023-09-11T14:17:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/emilyronehome.com\/?p=5288"},"modified":"2023-09-11T14:22:07","modified_gmt":"2023-09-11T14:22:07","slug":"5-reasons-you-should-be-thrifting-home-decor-affordable-and-sustainable-style","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/emilyronehome.com\/?p=5288","title":{"rendered":"5 Reasons You Should be Thrifting Home Decor: Affordable and Sustainable\u00a0Style"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Resist the fast furniture trend, and instead learn how you should be thrifting home decor. Better for your home, the environment and your pocketbook!<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

“Fast” everything has become prevalent in our consumer-driven and impatient society. With the rise of online shopping and the demand for trendy and affordable products, the production and consumption of “fast furniture” items have skyrocketed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Fast furniture, similar to its fashion counterpart, is characterized by its low cost, quick production turnaround, and disposability. It is designed to cater to passing trends and short-term needs with little consideration for durability or sustainability. As a result, these pieces often lack the quality craftsmanship and longevity that traditional furniture offers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Gone are the days when we had to wait weeks or even months for our furniture to be delivered. We can now walk into stores like Ikea, Home Goods, and Target and have our homes transformed within a matter of hours. These retailers have mastered the art of providing stylish and functional furniture that can be easily assembled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

And it’s not just about furniture anymore. The concept of fast furniture has expanded to include a wide range of home decor items as well. From quirky wall art to trendy throw pillows, these retailers offer a variety of options that allow customers to change their interior spaces on a whim. <\/p>\n\n\n

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This fast-paced approach to furnishing our homes has significant implications for both our wallets and the environment. While buying inexpensive furniture may seem like a budget-friendly solution, the hidden cost lies in the frequent need for replacement due to wear and tear. The disposability of fast furniture also contributes to the ever-growing problem of landfill overcrowding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In contrast, investing in well-crafted, timeless furniture not only ensures greater durability but also promotes sustainability. By choosing pieces made from high-quality materials, we can reduce our consumption and contribute to a more sustainable future. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

So, the next time you find yourself tempted by the allure of fast furniture consider the long-term consequences. Prioritize quality, sustainability, and mindful consumption to furnish your home with items that will stand the test of time and contribute to a more responsible lifestyle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Now I’m not saying there is not a time and a place for “fast” furnishings. Nor am I saying I have never given in to the temptation. My first apartment was full of nothing but fast furniture because I was broke, and I was buying for a small and temporary space. It’s important to strike a balance between convenience and quality, ensuring that we make thoughtful decisions regarding our purchases and their impact on the environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However I believe that everything is best in moderation, including fast furniture. Now, I primarily fill our Riverdale Ranch with thrifted finds. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

A few pros of secondhand shopping? Thrifting home decor is often affordable. Maybe not more affordable than buying a cheap particle board build-it-yourself coffee table, but cheaper than buying the same quality piece of furniture brand new. Second, it’s sustainable. You will be part of the reduce, reuse, recycle movement and the planet will thank you! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Third, you’re likely to find pieces that are timeless and won’t fall out of favor in a few years. Fourth, you will be investing in quality pieces that will survive the test of time (and can re-sell if you ever change your mind down the line). And finally, you end up with unique finds no one else has. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Let’s dig into each of these five reasons you should be thrifting home decor. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Why You Should be Thrifting Home Decor<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

1. Thrifting Home Decor is Affordable<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

First and foremost, lets talk finances. I remember when I shared this photo with the pair of Staffordshire dogs for $95 on Instagram I got all kinds of DMs<\/a><\/em> in shock over the price. Yes, thrifting home decor is often affordable! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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You will also find pieces of antique furniture from the 18th century and original oil paintings for thousands of dollars. This is a whole other type of shopping better known as “antiquing” that I would love to get into some day! But for now, I’m in search of the more affordable pieces. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

I often find gently used, hand woven wool rugs for a fraction of their original price. Fine china and silver? Also priced great! In fact, instead of registering for brand new china for your wedding consider waiting and searching for a set secondhand. I guarantee you will find a more timeless pattern, and will save money doing it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Not only are so many of these thrifted finds affordable upfront, but shopping this way will save your money over time. Buying fast furniture that wears out in a year or two will leave you needing to purchase something new just as fast. But buying quality the first time will help you avoid the quick turnaround. These well built pieces of furniture last for hundreds of years (unlike that build-it-yourself Ikea table).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Thrifting is Sustainable<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

According to the EPA, Americans throw out over 12 million tons of home furnishings and furniture each year. 12 MILLION tons! Let that number sink in. Trends in furniture waste have increased almost 5x since the 1960s. What can you do? Help slow the cycle and shop quality secondhand pieces! This helps reduce waste by giving home decor and furniture a second chance at life. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reusing and repurposing vintage items can be an incredibly rewarding and satisfying way to express your creativity and add a unique flare to your space. There is something truly special about finding an item with a history and giving it new life in your home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

One of the joys of thrifting is the endless treasure hunt for hidden gems. Whether it’s an antique piece of furniture, a vintage rug, or a stack of old books, these items have stories to tell and can bring a sense of nostalgia and character to your decor. By bringing them into your home, you not only reduce waste but also create a space that reflects your personal style and values.<\/p>\n\n\n

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Our living room rug is a thrifted find! I paid approximately 25% of this hand woven wool Persian rug’s original value at an Estate sale. It was in excellent used condition! <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

When it comes to repurposing vintage finds, the possibilities are endless. In fact, finding inspiration from high-end stores is a great way to get started. Take note of the current decor trends and styles you see and love, then challenge yourself to recreate them using thrifted items. Not only will this save you money, but it will also give you the opportunity to put your own creative twist on the design. It’s a win-win!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

By choosing to reuse and repurpose items, you are contributing to reducing waste and minimizing the demand for new products. Plus, you’ll have the satisfaction of knowing that your home is filled with unique, one-of-a-kind pieces that can’t be found anywhere else.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Need some ideas? Here are 10 things I ALWAYS keep an eye out for<\/a> <\/em>while secondhand shopping!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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3.Thrifting Home Decor is Timeless<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The definition of timeless is something that ages well. In a world that’s constantly evolving, there’s something truly remarkable about objects that have stood the test of time. Antiques, with their rich history and enduring charm, epitomize this notion of timelessness. <\/p>\n\n\n

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What makes antiques truly fascinating is their ability to seamlessly blend into contemporary spaces. A well-placed antique can add character and depth to any room, creating a timeless ambiance that transcends fleeting trends. It’s a testament to their design and craftsmanship that they continue to hold their own in the fast-paced world of interior design.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The direct opposite of timeless? Trendy. As I mentioned earlier, I promote everything in moderation. If you are loving something new and trendy, indulge every so often! But overall, it’s more responsible to decorate your home in the hopes of being “timeless”. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

When it comes to trendy items, choose things that can easily be swapped out or replaced. A bit of seasonal decor, or maybe throw pillows or covers. On the other hand, consider in investing in timeless pieces such as a dining room table, hand woven rug, or lighting. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Curious about where, why and how I shop for vintage rugs? Wonder no more- I divulge all my secrets (including a free Ebook with even more information)<\/a><\/em> to satisfy your curiosity. I promise, you too can anchor your rooms with timeless hand woven rugs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

By carefully selecting these timeless elements, you can create a space that exudes both style and longevity, where trendy items can easily be swapped out while maintaining a timeless foundation.<\/p>\n\n\n