As we move into 2026, I've been thinking a lot about how to refresh my home without breaking the bank or contributing to more waste. Thrift shopping has become my secret weapon, and it turns out I'm not alone—professional organizers are scouring secondhand stores for brilliant finds that combine function with personality. These experts aren't just about tidying up; they're masters at spotting items that bring both beauty and order to your space. Let me share what they're hunting for this year, because honestly, some of these ideas have completely transformed how I approach organization.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/GettyImages-2180173431-646affb9ae8a404496eb1ef423a74285.jpg)
Meaghan Kessman, a professional organizer based in Los Angeles, made me see glass jars and ceramic containers in a whole new light. "These are a go-to for me because they're both functional and beautiful," she says. I used to think they were just for grandma's kitchen, but now I use them everywhere—from storing flour and sugar to corralling bathroom essentials and office supplies. The best part? Each one has character that mass-produced plastic containers just can't match.
Let's talk about metal gym lockers. When organization expert Stephanie Greenberg suggested these, I was skeptical. But wow—they're storage powerhouses! Not only do they offer tons of space, but they bring this cool industrial vibe that makes even winter coats and sports equipment look intentional rather than cluttered. I found one last month and it's become the hero of my entryway.
Here are three game-changing items that have revolutionized my drawers and cabinets:
-
Vintage silverware dividers: Cara Palmer, founder of OrganizeEveryRoom.com, convinced me to ditch my flimsy plastic dividers. "Often solid wood, these are more sturdy than modern plastic and fit beautifully in kitchen drawers," she says. Mine has little carved details that make opening the utensil drawer feel fancy.
-
Stackable vintage suitcases: These aren't just for travel anymore! Palmer notes they're perfect for hidden storage. I found two in different sizes at an antique shop—they now hold off-season clothing while looking like intentional decor stacked in my bedroom corner.
-
Wicker baskets: Kessman and Palmer both swear by these, and I get why. They're incredibly versatile for shoes, toys, blankets, even garden supplies. Kessman's brilliant tip? "Place a large basket near the front door for kids' backpacks. It keeps them from being scattered all over the house and makes mornings so much easier."
Sometimes it's the small solutions that make the biggest difference. Trays and lazy Susans have become my secret weapons for tricky spots. Kessman explains, "A good tray can bring order to a cluttered coffee station or bathroom counter, and lazy Susans are perfect for awkward corners in cabinets." I love that she often spray paints them to match her decor—such a simple customization that makes thrifted items feel brand new.
Wall space is prime real estate we often overlook. Kessman suggests keeping an eye out for frames and hooks that can be repurposed. "Create jewelry displays or command centers for keys and small tools," she recommends. I turned an ornate frame into an earring holder by adding wire mesh, and now it's both functional and artful.
Thrifted planters might be my favorite multipurpose find. Greenberg suggests thinking beyond plants: "Indoors, they can be used to organize utensils, hold makeup brushes and small gardening tools. Outdoors, larger pots can hold firewood or store an unsightly rolled up garden hose." I have one on my bathroom counter holding all my brushes, and another in the garage organizing small tools.
When you're thrifting for organization, Palmer advises focusing on materials: "Look for items made of glass, wood, or metal as these are durable and will maintain their functionality even after years of use." This has saved me from buying items that look good initially but won't hold up.
| Item | Primary Use | Creative Alternative Use |
|---|---|---|
| Tiered serving stand | Snacks/desserts | Vertical toiletries storage in bathroom |
| Wooden crates | Produce storage | Book storage or side tables |
| Ceramic bowls | Food serving | Entryway catch-alls for keys/mail |
| Metal lockers | Gym storage | Entryway coat/accessory organization |
Speaking of ceramic bowls—don't underestimate them! These adaptable objects provide storage for so many different things. Place them on entryway tables, countertops, or bedside tables to keep clutter contained. "Bowls can keep all your clutter—mail, keys, phone, jewelry—all in one safe place," Palmer notes. I have three in different sizes throughout my home, and they've eliminated so much visual chaos.
What I love most about thrifting for organization in 2026 is how it aligns with sustainable living. Kessman puts it perfectly: "[Thrifting is] such an accessible way to add character and charm to your home while staying on budget." From a sustainability angle, you're giving old objects new life. Plus, many thrift shops support charities, so your purchase does double duty—organizing your home while helping your community.
The thrill of the hunt has become part of the joy for me. Each thrift store visit feels like a treasure hunt where I might discover the perfect solution to an organizing challenge I didn't even know I had. Whether it's repurposing a vintage suitcase or finding that ideal ceramic bowl, these items bring history and personality into my home while keeping everything in its place.
So next time you're feeling the urge to organize, skip the big-box store and check out your local thrift shop first. You might just find that perfect piece that solves your storage dilemma while adding a touch of character that no new item could ever replicate. Happy hunting! 🏠✨