The Thrift Store Rule That's Good To Follow If You're Attracted To Breakable Items

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When you go thrifting, you never know what gems you'll come across. More than that, you never know which pieces will speak to you, compelling you to bring them home. This is why you should always be prepared for any outcome and follow a thrift store rule without fail: bringing some bubble wrap with you. It's a particularly good idea if you're attracted to valuable glass items at thrift stores and estate sales. It's because the wrap will insulate your glassware, porcelain vases, antique mirrors, handmade pottery, as well as delicate figurines, and keep them from breaking unceremoniously in the trunk of your car.

Moreover, make it a point to stash a little in your suitcase when going abroad if you love visiting the local flea markets and other thrifting venues. You don't need anything expensive. A budget-friendly roll, like Pen+Gear's 12-inch by 30 foot Clear Roll, will work just as well. In case you don't want to spend money on packaging your thrifted items, save any bubble wrap you come across in your packages for your future trips. Alternatively, ask around in your Facebook group or check in with your friends and family if they have leftover shipping supplies to score a roll without spending much (or anything). Tip: Always check in first with any of your acquaintances who have moved recently, as they're more likely to have some extra bubble wrap on hand. That being said, be careful when handling breakable items. Otherwise, you'll have to buy it anyway, according to the etiquette rules you should follow when thrift shopping.

After you snag a stunning vintage glass from the thrift store, move to a quiet corner or go to your car if it's too crowded inside. Then, bring out your bubble wrap and put it over your breakable items. Just ensure the bubbly part of the wrap touches your delicate purchase while the flat part faces out. This way, the inflated bubbles will shock-proof your purchases and keep them intact. Once you're happy with the wrapped items, secure their ends with a few small strips of tape before you place them in your suitcase or the trunk of your car.

In case it's a surprise purchase and you don't have a bubble roll handy, the old forgotten blanket in your vehicle will work well, too. In case you don't have one, you can thrift a cheap throw from the store. You can also use sheets of old newspapers in a jiffy. Wrap a thick layer around your fragile pieces prior to nesting them in an old piece of cloth. Whichever way you go, ensure your pieces don't move around a lot, or they might break regardless.