Thrifting in the 417: Best Thrift Stores for Kids' Clothes & Gear
With six kids, I've learned a secret that big-box stores don't want you to know: kids don't care if their jeans are brand new. They care if they fit, if they're comfy, and if they look cool. And in Springfield, the best kids' clothes aren't at the mall — they're at the thrift and consignment stores.
I've dressed this crew in secondhand for years, and these are the spots I actually shop. Real stores, real addresses.
The Kids-Only Consignment Shops
Other Mothers — 1430 W Kearney St & 642 E Battlefield St, Springfield
This place has been serving Springfield families since 1986 — before I was even born, probably. Kids' and maternity clothes, baby gear, furniture, toys. They take trade-ins, so bring a bag of outgrown stuff and walk out with "new" bigger sizes. Two locations, both worth the trip.
Once Upon A Child — 1421 S Glenstone Ave, Springfield
The franchise you know, but the Springfield one consistently has the best shoe selection. Strollers, cribs, ride-on toys, bikes — the big-ticket kid gear for a fraction of retail. Go on a weekday morning for the freshest stock.
Children's Orchard — 1278 E Republic Rd, Springfield
Another kids-only consignment shop with clothes, toys, and gear. Great for filling in seasonal gaps — like when three kids hit a growth spurt in the same month (ask me how I know).
General Thrift Stores That Always Deliver
Goodwill — 1514 S Glenstone Ave, Springfield
The classic. The Glenstone location is big and the kids' section gets restocked constantly. I've found name-brand jeans, winter coats, and Halloween costumes here. Pro tip: shop off-season — winter coats in April, shorts in September — and you'll practically steal them.
Thrift Haven — 1312 S Glenstone Ave, Springfield
Open for over 15 years, and proceeds benefit Fair Haven Children's Home in Strafford. So your money goes to kids while you shop for kids. The prices are gentle and the kids' clothing racks are always full.
Disabled American Veterans Thrift Store — 1711 N Glenstone Ave, Springfield
Huge store, great for furniture and kids' room decor. The toy section is hit or miss, but when it hits, it HITS.
Consignment Events (Mark Your Calendar!)
Rhea Lana's of Springfield
This is a pop-up children's consignment SALE — not a store. Families consign their stuff, shoppers come for a few days, and everything is organized by size. The half-price days are legendary. Watch for their spring and fall events.
Trading Hands — tradinghands.net
Another seasonal kids' consignment event in Springfield. Bring a wagon or a big bag — you'll need it.
My Thrifting Rules (Learned the Hard Way)
- Never thrift hungry, and never thrift with all six kids. One helper kid max. Trust me.
- Check the toy aisle last — or you'll have a cart full of "but Moooom it's only $2!"
- Learn each store's discount days. Many mark specific tag colors down on rotating schedules.
- Buy the next size up. If it's $1.50 and it's next season's size, grab it. Future you will be grateful.
- Inspect zippers, snaps, and knees. Kid clothes take a beating — check before you buy.
Thrifting isn't just about saving money (though with six kids, that's plenty). It's about the thrill of the find. There's nothing like pulling a practically-new pair of sneakers off the rack for four bucks.
Happy hunting, mamas! 💛
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