In planning an upcoming trip of mine, I poured over the “what to wears” of the world and made my list of must-have’s.  To cut down this list, a thrifting trip of epic proportions (or at least an afternoon) was in order, so I snagged my bestie and headed out to Fairfield, Ohio, for a productive afternoon snagging bargains.

 

Our stop to the Valley Thrift Store on North Dixie Highway in Fairfield is summed up in two words-productive chaos.  Before you head over to this thrifting super store you should be aware:

• Claustrophobics need not apply for shopping here.  Aisle width is ok-fairly standard for thrift stores-but stacked high and on busy days crammed with people.
• Prices vary by item, so always check the tags.
• Items are literally fresh out of the donation bin here-check them thoroughly for defects and stains.

Thrift Store Score

The ratings I assign to thrift stores I frequent are based on how you want your overall shopping experience anywhere to go.  The higher the overall score, the better the thrifting experience.  Here are the ratings for Valley Thrift Store:

• Thrift Chaos Factor – 3/10 This place scores low on the TCF because of cluttered aisles, crowding potential, and warehouse-style store.
• Bargain Rating – 6/10 You can find some really lovely deals here ($1.69 sweater!!), but then others just not so much.
• Hidden Gem Score – 7/10 I was **thisclose** to walking away with this fabulous patterned trench.  Unfortunately it was just a hair too big.
• Ick Factor – 3/10 People who are not thrift fans will not like this setting.  It’s too far different from a “normal” store to appeal to the shopping masses and the donation bag to store shelf factor is a bit worrisome.
• Ease of Purchase – 6/10 Every item is clearly marked with a large tag so you shouldn’t have much issue determining price.  Fitting rooms are in the back and you must got into the sorting area to get to them, and wait for an attendant to let you in.  They are, however, very clean and secure.  Check out lines are fairly fast and plentiful.

Overall Store Score:  25/50

Valley Thrift Store is a great stop on your thrifting afternoon out, if you are an experienced thrifter.  Novices should avoid this as it may turn you off from future thifting experiences; it’s just too far removed from your standard store setting.

Great bargains can be found here, however, but make sure you thoroughly inspect all purchases and stick to the “wash immediately” rule when you get home.