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Tips for Furnishing Your Home

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furnishing your home

Finding a home and making it your own can be one of the most rewarding—or stressful!—accomplishments. When you have young children, keep in mind that sturdier, more durable items will withstand some wear and tear. While there are many places to buy new furniture for your home or baby’s use, there are also some great places to take advantage of gently used items.

REFURBISHED/GENTLY USED RESOURCES:

  • Habitat For Humanity Restore Shops are stores where people have donated household goods for those starting new homes. Great finds and bargains! http://www.habitat.org/restores
  • Many communities have resale shops like Goodwill where low-cost furniture and household goods can be found.

http://www.goodwill.org/

SOCIAL MEDIA RESOURCES:

  • Try Craigslist or Facebook free/for sale/swap groups in your area for used furniture, such as Freecycle.

http://www.craigslist.com

  • Flea markets, auctions, and garage sales are also good sources.

http://www.keysfleamarket.com

SOCIAL SERVICES RESOURCES:

    • Some social service agencies also have used-furniture warehouses that offer free items and delivery, in some cases. Check with your local Department of Jobs and Family Services or United Way for local listings.
    • Local colleges and universities may have clean-outs at the end of the school year where students and the university get rid of unneeded furniture.

Anytime you purchase or receive used items, it’s important to consider safety.

Keep these tips in mind:

  • Swap and trade sites are public resources.
      • Avoid giving unnecessary personal information, and bring a friend when you are entering a stranger’s home.
      • Ask them to leave the items on their porch for pick-up.
      • Carefully inspect items before purchase or use, and be cautious of picking up upholstered items that may be infested with bugs.
  • Check to make sure baby furniture, items, and toys have not been recalled. This is particularly important in regard to cribs, whose safety standards frequently change.