So You Need a FB Marketplace Alternative?
Here's a list of sites/apps for secondhand goods.
I hope this newsletter is finding you as well as it possibly can. For many reasons.
I, like many a New Yorker with an apartment to furnish for the low have turned to FB Marketplace to source necessities. I have a sturdy living room table, I’ve gotten the emerald green couch of my dreams, bookshelves, and a standing desk—all of which was purchased used on FB Marketplace. I spent less than $100 for each item. I have used the platform for “buy nothing” groups or to find cheap or free local events.
I don’t want to spend as much of my time (or data) on that platform anymore. I think I bring too much feminine energy whenever I log into my account.
The platform was once a way to find just about anything I needed for almost half off. I avoid buying new items whenever I can. I can only think of a few things in my kitchen that are new. Most of my cutlery and my plates are also used. And though FB Marketplace was convenient for keeping up this lifestyle…other options exist. Here are some options I love as a lifelong secondhand shopper.
For books, try Thriftbooks. Some authors have their books available for sale on their personal websites as well.
For hobbies and gifts, try Mercari. I’ve used this platform for holiday gifts, for fashion, and games.
For outdoor and workout gear, try Geartrade. I love hiking and jogging and both are funded by me buying used gear like gently worn sneakers and windbreakers.
Go to locally owned shops. If you are able to physically go to locally owned shops and small local chains for your goods, please do so. Your money will stay in your community and go to someone who is likely not a technobro. Some shops do not have much online presence, but some small secondhand shops do have social media accounts or a website where you can shop online.
What if you want to try no buy? I was recently reminded that Craigslist has a “free” section. Here’s the one for NYC. I loved this section during college and graduate school, and got a decent chair when I moved into my first apartment. There are some other options too. I can’t speak for other cities but local mutual aid funds throughout New York host bartering events or free pick up and drop off tables. I’ve used these to donate clothing and to find some home goods (like mugs and kitchen towels).
What if you have to shell out some money for a new item? There’s a subreddit for that, including this one where people share items they’ve purchased that have been worth the money. I’ve seen reviews on if Le Creuset sets are worth the money or the best kind of safety razors to buy for lower waste. I am a chronic over-thinker, so I love seeing other people explain why the either recommend or regret a purchase.
I admit that I’ll feel nostalgic about all of my years of frequent FB Marketplace shopping. But it’s time to start phasing some things out of my life.
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I freaking love ThriftBooks!