How to Start Your Online Thrift Shop
- Community Post
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Online thrift shops are a fun way moms can make money from home. These days, so many moms are looking for a deal on children's clothes and even for themselves! From aprons, dresses, leggings to rompers, toddler jackets, and more, women are looking for unique deals online!
Lots of moms use Instagram to promote their thrift stores. They give their shops cute names like. "Marie's Thrift Finds" or "Amy's Treasures." Then they create a cute logo in Canva and start posting!
How do I gain a following? Follow moms in your city and interact with their posts! You'll pop up in their notifications and they'll follow you back!
Can I make money doing this? Yes! You can make anywhere from $300 a month to much more depending on the types of items you resell.
I don't know anything about thrifting or selling clothes online! Get our newest guide in the Work-at-Home Mom Business library: How to Start Your Online Thrift Shop.
What’s In This Book?
Why Start an Online Thrift Store?
Thrifting is so in — it’s stylish and sustainable
You can make real money from pre-loved clothes
Work when you want (yes, in your PJs!)
It’s a fun, creative way to express your style
Finding Inventory
Best places to score treasures: local thrift stores, garage sales, clearance racks
How to spot the gems from the junk
What to look for: condition, brands, trends, vibes
Bonus: try liquidation sites or bulk buys when you're ready to level up
Tools You’ll Need
Your phone is your best friend (hello, camera + apps!)
Bright lighting = better pics
A clean wall or a cute mannequin makes a big difference
Stock up on: poly mailers, a postal scale, shipping labels
Use a notebook, spreadsheet, or app to track everything
Choosing the Right Platforms
eBay: big audience, lots of buyers
Depop: trendy, vintage, youth style = yes
Poshmark: fashion-focused + built-in community
Mercari: super beginner-friendly
Creating Listings That Sell
Take clean, bright photos — natural light works wonders
Write honest, clear, keyword-packed descriptions
Check prices of similar items to know what to charge
Hashtags = more eyes on your stuff!
Managing Your Store
Keep your items organized (trust me on this one)
Respond to messages kindly and quickly
Handle returns like a pro
Ship things out fast — people love quick delivery!
Promoting Your Thrift Brand
Pick a name and logo that feels you
Post hauls, try-ons, and thrift tips on Instagram, TikTok, Pinterest
Be real and relatable — people love seeing your journey
Build your own little thrift-loving community 💛
Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t overbuy just because it’s cheap (been there 🙃)
Remember to factor in shipping costs
Always double-check for flaws before listing
Consistency is key — post a little every day
It also includes a complete weekly social media posting calendar with post text templates and ideas. This eBook will make starting your online thrift shop easy.