Our little munchkins grow so fast, and end up going through clothes incredible quick. As my daughter grows out of her old clothes, I’m often in need of an entire new wardrobe. And, of course, that can add up fast. While I do appreciate getting new clothes for special events (and sometimes because I find something my daughter absolutely has to have), more often that not, I find second-hand clothes to be the perfect solution.
I was donated my daughter’s first round of clothes, and it became my mission to find her second hand clothes. Not only is it less expensive, but it’s better for the environment. According to earth.org, “The average US consumer throws away 81.5lbs of clothes every year.” Considering how many clothes my child is going to go through in the next few years, I found that statistic to be shocking. If you are also looking for ways to reduce your carbon footprint while spending less money, second hand is the way to go.
Just Between Friends Sale
My first recommendation is always the Just between friends sale, which many parents I know have coined, “the mom sale.” It’s a pop up sale that happens multiple times a year where you can buy gentle used items. This includes clothes, hats, coats, as well as other fun things such as bouncers, toys and more. I got my daughter’s first coat and first swimsuit from here, as well as several other items. You have to get a ticket to “reserve” your spot, but it’s free. You can spend money to get what is basically a VIP ticket and cut the line as well.
Once Upon A Child
Once upon a child is located in Ann Arbor, Michigan and is another fantastic choice for secondhand clothing. You can sell old clothes for cash, and use that cash to buy new ones! Their website boasts that you can get items for up to 70% off retail value. They carry sizes preemie to youth 20, and have all seasons all the time so that you can buy ahead if you’d like. Check out their instagram page for more information.
Related: Ann Arbor Family’s Maternity and Baby Guide 2026
Kiwanis Thrift Sale
Kiwanis Thrift Sale has numerous items, including antiques, appliances, furniture and more. They have huge amounts of clothing, including children’s clothing and shoes. While it does not primarily focus on children’s clothing, it still has quite a large supply.
Ann Arbor Thrift Shop
Shopping at the Ann Arbor Thrift Shop literally gives back to the community. Purchases and donations go to supporting emergency assistance in Washtenaw County. Its selection of children’s clothing is not as large as some of the other stores on this list, but they still have a consistent supply of kid’s clothing, and your purchase helps both the environment and the community.
Kids Fashion Jungle
Kids Fashion Jungle has been in Dexter for about a year, and is a great new addition. It has a mix of both new and reused clothes. The owner has said the following about her store, “At Kids Fashion Jungle we try to buy the best brands and offer the best return for our customers.” She also mentioned that if clothes are donated that she finds to be of a quality she doesn’t want to resell, she will donate them right back to people who might need them.
Nu2U
There are two Nu2U stores, one in Ypsilanti and the other in Saline. I adore them because of their mission, “When you donate to Nu2U Again, you are helping spread our mission by creating employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Your donation will help us enhance our store by being more accessible to those who need it. It will also help us grow our store to become further involved in our community.”
They have awesome sales, including one where you can get an entire bag of clothing for only $5.00. The reviews on yelp note that the store is well stocked with clothing, and that the prices are reasonable.
Your child is ever changing, and their sizing is too. With these options you can give them an incredible wardrobe at a fraction of the cost, and give back to the community as well. If you’re looking to donate old clothes, most of these places take donations as well.
