Valley Thrift Store: Best Children's Items and Best Overall
1717 Woodman Drive in Kettering
The Valley Thrift Store is the largest shop on this list, complete with a large department for every category of thrifting, earning them our pick for best overall store if you are not looking for anything in particular.
However, one specific category that does stand out at Valley Thrift is their children's items. Multiple racks of small child's clothing, stuffed animals, and even school supplies make up a corner of the store.
The store even offers 25% off on all merchandise on Mondays, which Thrift Shop Day falls on.
Feathers: Best Vintage Clothing and Vinyl
440 E. Fifth Street in Dayton's Oregon District
Even though Feathers does not identify as a thrift store, the vintage clothing shop provides the same "treasure hunting" feel that thrifting does. According to the shop's owner, she hunts for and hand picks each clothing item and only chooses those that meet her high standards.
Besides being our top pick for vintage clothing, Feathers is also a hidden treasure when it comes to vinyl records. A display right in the center of the shop holds dozens of discounted records from some of music's greatest, ranging in price from $5 to $20.
St. Francis Thrift Store: Best Furniture and Homewares
2824 Wilmington Pike Plaza in Dayton
St. Francis Thrift Store, with locations in both Dayton and the Fairborn area, is best known for their large selection of pre-owned furniture and other homeware items.
The perfect stop for those moving into a new place, the thrift store sells couches ranging from $100 to $400, dining tables around $300, and bed frames anywhere from $50 to $500. There are also a number of aisles displaying appliances, wall hangings, and other decorations.
Goodwill: Best Shoes and Professional Attire
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Goodwill is arguably the most popular thrift store in the country, with several locations in the Dayton area, but we have found they are actually best when it comes to two specific categories.
Towards the back of most Goodwill stores, customers can find a large department specifically for shoes. Their impressive selection of high heels, casual styles, and more range in price from $1 to $4.50.
Goodwill is an asset for professionals on a budget, as their selection of women's slacks and blazers as well as men's sportscoats and suits are equally as impressive and affordable.
Plato's Closet: Best Teen Clothing and Accessories
With locations in Miamisburg, Beavercreek, and Huber Heights, Plato's Closet is a great stop for any teen or young adult looking for clothing up to date with the latest trends.
Aside from a few higher end brands, the prices at Plato's Closet (which identifies as a consignment shop) closely match the prices at Goodwill when it comes to clothing and accessories. Customers can find items from brands like American Eagle, Victoria's Secret, Pacsun, and many more ranging from $3 to $20.
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