A friend of ours in Durham is part of a local “free” Facebook group where people give away things they no longer need. (Yes, this is actually legitimate. We couldn’t believe it.) Toys, clothes, baby gear—you name it.
Just last week, she picked up two pairs of toddler Air Jordans for her twin boys… completely free. Not worn out, not beat up—just gently used and passed along.
That kind of thing might sound rare, but it’s actually happening all the time.
Where to Find Great Deals (and Even Free Finds)
Raising kids means constantly replacing things they outgrow—sometimes faster than expected. We think the key for many families isn’t buying less, but buying smarter.
Here are some places you can start looking.
- Facebook “Buy Nothing” or Free Groups
- These are active in most cities and suburbs. People regularly give away items in great condition.
- Children’s resale stores (like Once Upon a Child)
- A go-to for affordable clothes, shoes, and toys that are still in great shape.
- Clothing and toy swaps
- Whether informal with friends or organized locally, swaps are an easy way to refresh what your kids have.
- If you don’t have something like this in your area, but you know a lot of moms… maybe consider organizing your own? You’d be a community hero.
- Consignment sales and seasonal pop-ups
- These often have huge selections and deep, affordable discounts compared to retail.
- Hand-me-down networks
- Friends, neighbors, or family members with older kids can be one of the best resources.
- Shopping ahead or off-season
- Buying next year’s items early can save a lot over time.
When you’ve bought (or are in the process of buying) a home, those smart and sustainable purchases can go a long way.
Wishing you the best of luck on your savvy shopping adventures!
