Find Thrift Store in Idaho

Idaho is a great state for thrift shopping. Whether you live in Boise or a smaller town, you can find quality secondhand items at low prices. From clothing to furniture, Idaho thrift stores have something for everyone. This guide helps you find the best thrift stores across the Gem State.

Major Thrift Store Chains in Idaho

Several well-known chains operate throughout Idaho. These stores are reliable, well-stocked, and easy to find in most larger cities.

Goodwill Industries

Goodwill is one of the most popular thrift chains in Idaho. They have locations in Boise, Nampa, Meridian, Twin Falls, and Pocatello. Goodwill accepts donations of clothing, electronics, furniture, and household goods. Purchases support job training programs for people in the community. Many Idaho Goodwill stores also have outlet sections where items are sold by the pound.

The Salvation Army Thrift Store

The Salvation Army runs thrift stores in several Idaho cities. You can find locations in Boise, Nampa, Twin Falls, and Idaho Falls. They sell clothes, books, kitchenware, and furniture at very low prices. Proceeds help fund local social services like emergency shelter and food programs. Tag color rotation sales mean prices drop even further on select days.

Savers and Value Village

Savers operates thrift stores in the Boise metro area. This for-profit chain is known for large selections and frequent discount promotions. They carry a wide mix of clothing, accessories, and home goods. Savers partners with nonprofits to collect donations, so your purchases still support community programs. Check their website for weekly deals and special half-off events.

Local Idaho Chains and Independent Stores

Idaho also has strong local thrift options. Deseret Industries, run by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, has stores in Boise, Meridian, Nampa, and Pocatello. These stores offer affordable goods and employment training opportunities. Many smaller towns have independent thrift shops run by churches, hospice programs, or community organizations. These local stores often have unique finds at prices the big chains can't beat.

Thrift Shopping by City in Idaho

The density of thrift stores varies by city. Here is a breakdown of where to shop in Idaho's major areas.

Boise

Boise is Idaho's largest city and has the best selection of thrift stores. You will find multiple Goodwill locations, Salvation Army stores, Savers, and several Deseret Industries outlets. The city also has independent vintage shops and consignment stores near Downtown and the North End neighborhood. Boise is the best city in Idaho for serious thrift shoppers.

Nampa and Caldwell

The Treasure Valley cities of Nampa and Caldwell are close to Boise and have solid thrift options. Goodwill, Salvation Army, and Deseret Industries all have stores here. Prices in these cities tend to be lower than in central Boise. These are good spots to browse if you want less competition and more room to dig.

Idaho Falls and Pocatello

Eastern Idaho is home to a healthy thrift scene. Idaho Falls has Goodwill, Salvation Army, and Deseret Industries locations. Pocatello also has multiple options including Goodwill and Deseret Industries. These stores serve large regional populations and tend to be well-stocked. Eastern Idaho also has strong local church-run thrift stores worth visiting.

Twin Falls

Twin Falls has Goodwill and Salvation Army stores, plus a few local secondhand shops. This south-central Idaho city is a good stop if you are passing through. The thrift stores here stock a good mix of rural and suburban donations, which often means unique outdoor gear and Western-style clothing.

Coeur d'Alene and Northern Idaho

Northern Idaho has a growing thrift scene. Coeur d'Alene has Goodwill and Salvation Army stores, plus several local consignment and vintage shops. The area's mix of retirees and outdoor enthusiasts means you often find quality gear, home furnishings, and collectibles. Lewiston and Sandpoint also have smaller thrift options.

What You Can Find at Idaho Thrift Stores

Idaho thrift stores carry a wide range of items. Here is what to expect in different categories.

• Clothing: Jeans, winter coats, flannel shirts, boots, and outdoor wear are common. Idaho's climate means cold-weather gear shows up frequently.
• Furniture: Sofas, dressers, dining tables, and bookshelves are sold at most larger stores. Check Goodwill and Salvation Army for the best furniture selection.
• Books: Idaho thrift stores are great for cheap books. You can often find paperbacks for under one dollar.
• Kitchenware: Dishes, pots, pans, and small appliances are plentiful. Canning equipment shows up often due to Idaho's strong home-preservation culture.
• Outdoor and Sports Gear: Fishing rods, camping equipment, skis, and hunting accessories appear regularly. Idaho's active outdoor lifestyle means these items cycle through donations often.
• Electronics: TVs, gaming consoles, stereos, and small appliances are common. Always test electronics before buying if the store allows it.
• Toys and Kids' Items: Toys, children's books, car seats (check expiration dates), and kids' clothing are widely available.
• Holiday Decorations: Year-round you will find holiday decor from previous seasons at very low prices.

Tips for Thrift Shopping in Idaho

A little strategy goes a long way when you shop secondhand. These tips will help you get better deals and find what you are looking for.

• Go early in the week: Most stores restock Monday through Wednesday after weekend donation drops. Tuesday and Wednesday mornings are often the best times to find new items on the floor.
• Ask about discount days: Most Idaho Goodwill and Salvation Army stores have weekly color tag discount days. Ask at the register or check the store's social media page for the schedule.
• Check the Goodwill outlet: Boise's Goodwill outlet sells items by the pound. This is the best option if you want maximum value and do not mind sorting through bins.
• Visit multiple stores in one trip: Nampa and Boise are close together. Plan a route that covers several stores to maximize your haul.
• Look for seasonal donations: Spring and fall are peak donation seasons. People clean out closets before summer and before the holidays. Expect more inventory during these times.
• Inspect items carefully: Most thrift stores do not accept returns. Check clothing for stains and tears. Test zippers and buttons. Look for chips or cracks in dishes.
• Know your measurements: Bring a tape measure for furniture. Sizes vary widely in vintage and secondhand clothing.
• Sign up for loyalty programs: Goodwill and Savers offer rewards cards. You earn discounts and get notified about sales and special events.

Frequently Asked Questions