Kids are expensive – and they grow like weeds. As you dig those spring clothes out of storage, there is a good chance you’ll encounter stretched-out tees, too-short shorts and jackets that simply won’t zip. Before you head to the mall to drop some serious cash on a new wardrobe, why not check out a consignment sale, where you can get like-new clothing, toys and baby gear for a fraction of the price.
Just like flowers, spring consignment sales are popping up all over the tristate, and they provide great opportunities to fill the kids’ closets (while keeping a full bank account!).
Our Guide to Spring Consignment Sales in Cincinnati features the top sales, consignment stores and parent-tested tips to make the most of your money and time!
Measure Twice, Shop Once
Last year, your oldest wore a size 2 shoe and 6T pant. This year… not so much. Use a measuring tape to take your kiddo’s measurements beforehitting the sales. Keep these measurements — and measuring tape — with you to check when you’re making your purchases. You can purchase a medium at one store and it fits perfect — but a medium at another store is too tight! Shopping at a consignment shop is like shopping multiple stores at one time, so three pairs of pants in a size 6 will all fit differently.
Make a List (and Budget!)
After you have measured your kiddos, check their closets or toy bins to make a list of items you are looking for. This will not only help you stay on budget, but will keep you focused and not buying items that you just don’t need! And while you’re planning, be sure to set a budget – and bring cash so you actually stick to the budget. (Cash will also help you avoid any credit card fees, and cover any cash-only admission charges!)
BYOB – Bag… and Buddy!
Having a shopping buddy won’t just make for a more enjoyable shopping experience, but will also allow you the opportunity to bounce ideas off of some else. “Do you think this is cute for Jack?” “Do you think Ella will actually play with this?” And a large bag or basket isn’t just better for the environment – they’re also great for carrying around all the fab finds you snatch up throughout the day!
Arrive Early & Stay All Day
The best items will go quickly! So arrive early if you are looking for specific items — especially if they are popular sizes, styles, brands and toys. Shopping at consignment sales takes patience; you’ll have to sort through lots of items if you’re searching for something in particular. So clear your schedule and plan to make a day of it!
Armed with these helpful tips (plus cash and a bag!), here’s a roundup of Spring Consignment Sales in Cincinnati:
Changing Hands Sale
Sat., March 7, 9 am-1 pm
Madeira Elementary, 7840 Thomas Dr., Madeira, OH
This bi-annual sale held in the spring and fall at Madeira Elementary boasts top kids’ brands and baby products. Admission is $1 and credit cards are accepted at checkout (no checks, though!). Follow Changing Hands Sale on Facebook for updates and giveaways!
Anything for Kids Sale
Sat., March 14, 8 am-12 pm
Lakota East High School, 6840 Lakota Ln., Liberty Township, OH
This sale (sponsored by the West Chester Mothers of Twins and More) features kids’ clothing from infant to juniors, maternity apparel, kids’ furniture, toys, bikes and baby gear. Admission is $1 (cash only); cash and credit cards are accepted for purchases. More info on event Facebook page.
Everything for Kids Sale
Sat., March 14, 9-11:30 am
Northern Kentucky University, Student Union Ballroom, 20 Kenton Drive, Highland Heights, KY
The Northern Kentucky Mothers of Multiples’ semi-annual children’s clothing, toys and equipment sale is open to the public – not just for families with twins! Admission is $1 per person and kids 12 and under are free. Credit cards are accepted at checkout with a $3 service fee. Follow event Facebook page for more information.
Faith MOPS Sale
Sat., March 14, 7:30-11 am (first 10 people in line get entry at 7:15 am!)
Faith Church, 5910 Price Rd., Milford, OH
Features gently loved kids’ warm-weather apparel and accessories, maternity clothing, Easter outfits, indoor/outdoor toys, books, games, baby gear, bedding, décor, sports items, DVDs, video games and more! Admission is $1 (cash only); credit cards are accepted at checkout. Be sure to follow this group’s Facebook page for info on fun raffles and giveaways!
Greater Cincinnati Twin Sale
Sat., April 18 from 8-11:30 am
Loveland Middle School, 801 S. Lebanon Rd., Loveland, OH
The Cincinnati Mothers of Twins consignment sale features everything from strollers and car seats to toys, clothes and shoes – at bargain prices. Admission is $1 per person and credit cards are accepted at checkout with a $2 transaction fee. Follow event Facebook page for updates.
Little Treasures Kids Sale
Wed., March 11-Sun., March 15
Crestview Hills Town Center (former Charming Charlie’s), 2787 Town Center Blvd, Crestview Hills, KY 41017
Little Treasures Kids Sale is Northern Kentucky’s largest twice-a-year consignment sale. Sale features new and gently used brand-name clothing, shoes, toys, furniture, equipment, maternity and more! More info here.
Rhea Lana’s
March 29-April 3
Northgate Mall, 9549 Colerain Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45251
Rhea Lana’s is a semi-annual second-hand sale held at various locations nationwide. This children’s-consignment-meets-boutique event features high-quality children’s clothing, shoes, furniture, toys, books, DVDs, baby equipment and maternity items.
Almost all of the organizations listed above host fall sales as well, so be sure to ask about future sale dates. Meanwhile, if you want to score a few secondhand steals in between sales, check out one of the following Cincinnati consignment retailers:
Once Upon A Child
9 locations in the Greater Cincinnati/Dayton area
This well-known resale chain is popular with Cincinnati parents, and for good reason. It’s a one-stop shop for all things kids: clothing, shoes, sports uniforms, Halloween costumes and even toys – all priced at a fraction of what you’d spend at the mall.
Plato’s Closet
7 locations in the Greater Cincinnati/Dayton area
Plato’s Closet is the older sibling of Once Upon a Child and the place to find the top brands, trends and styles for hard-to-please tweens and teens.
Clothes Mentor
4 Greater Cincinnati locations
Moms: need something for yourself? Head to Clothes Mentor for designer clothes, shoes and accessories, all at budget-friendly prices! Think you’re too busy to shop for yourself? Be sure to sign up for a free personal shopper session and maximize your kid-free time.
Reruns for Wee Ones
Two locations: 5353 Dixie Hwy, Fairfield, OH and 8142 Princeton-Glendale Rd, West Chester, OH
This family-owned operation is now known as the “Largest Children’s Resale Shop” in the city. Reruns buys and sells apparel, toys, maternity and more.
The Snooty Fox
10 locations around Cincinnati
The Snooty Fox is an upscale consignment store that sells like-new, brand-name clothing. You’ll find especially great deals on “special occasion” clothes for your kids! Check out Snooty Fox’s Bus Tours, which stop at several different locations and offer a 15% discount for everyone in attendance!
