When making these lists I’m being very specific. These are not vintage resellers and they are not consignment shops. They are not curated boutiques masquerading as a rummage sale. These are thrift stores. It can be hard to sort through the online listings to determine which ones are worth visiting. Below is a list of the best thrift stores in Oakville.
Fancy a road trip? Head to Toronto, Mississauga, Burlington or Hamilton
For thrifting from the comfort of your home: A complete list of online thrift stores in Canada
IODE Opportunity Shop
Address: 432 Kerr St, Oakville
The IODE Opportunity Shop is a great place to find used treasures an a favourite of all the thrift stores in Oakville. It’s open from Tuesday to Saturday, with longer hours on Thursday. This shop is run by volunteers and sells clothes, housewares, jewelry, and books. The money they make goes to bursaries for local high school students and a First Nations class in Labrador (among other things). This shop is a bit hidden away but is full of friendly vibes, good prices, and supports a good cause. Plus, you don’t pay tax here! People love the deals and the nice people who work here. It’s small, but everything is priced well.
Barkin’ Bin Thrift Store
Address: 511 Pinegrove Rd, Oakville
The Barkin’ Bin Thrift Store is a small thrift store in Oakville in which all purchases support the Oakville Humane Society. It is volunteer-run, known for a great selection of items especially for pet lovers. The store is dedicated to helping animals, and shoppers would feel good having their money go toward such a cause. It’s great little independent thrift store in Oakville.
The Salvation Army Thrift Store
Address: 356 Kerr St, Oakville
The Salvation Army store on Kerr Street is a gem that is highly favoured by locals, with a range of items including clothing, kitchenware, shoes, and more at reasonable prices. The service in the store is friendly and the staff are helpful.
Goodwill Thrift Store
Address: 407A Speers Rd, Oakville
The Goodwill Thrift Store in Oakville is large with plenty of parking, making it super easy to visit. This store is especially goof for finding children’s clothes. All clothing is well-organized by colour and size, though its selection of housewares and decorative items is a bit smaller than some other stores. Definitely try and strategically shop the sales as each week they have 50% off a different category. They also have a simple return policy for some purchases, which we know is tough to find at a thrift store.
Value Village (Hampshire Gate)
Address: 2506 Hampshire Gate, Oakville
The Value Village on Hampshire Gate has a large layout and a wide variety of items. You can find a mix of clothing, household goods, and more, although the regulars tend to regularly hunt the good stuff at this location in particular. There is tons of parking, and its a good spot to go for a long, slow browse. The curse of Value Village however is the prices (and the ethics?). It can hurt to pay VV prices but the selection and frequent turnover of stock can still be worth it. Always, always makes sure you are signed up as a Value Village club member so you can get their frequent discount coupons by email.
Value Village (Cross Ave)
Address: 125 Cross Ave, Oakville
The Value Village on Cross Avenue is clean and organized. Although prices at Value Village have generally gone up lately (and by that I mean they have skyrocketed), at least here you can shop a wide variety of categories with a fairly high turnover of inventory. This one is well-organized and a go-to spot for a wide range of thrifted goodies in Oakville.
Farewell and happy hunting
Thrifting in Oakville isn’t just about finding good deals; it’s about uncovering one-of-a-kind items, helping out charitable organizations, and making choices that are better for the planet. From vintage clothes and unique home decorations to the basics, the thrift shops in Oakville have plenty to offer. Keep in mind, the most memorable treasures are usually found by those who thrift frequently. So, consider integrating thrifting into your regular schedule. Here’s to finding great things!
