Top 12 Best Thrift Stores in Bellevue, WA: A Detailed Guide

Bellevue, Washington, is a thriving city located just across Lake Washington from Seattle. Known for its upscale shopping, modern architecture, and tech-driven economy, it might surprise some to learn that Bellevue also has a vibrant thrift store scene. Whether you’re hunting for one-of-a-kind vintage pieces, affordable home décor, or gently used clothing, the thrift stores in Bellevue offer a diverse array of treasures.

Thrifting in this city isn’t just about finding a great deal; it’s also about contributing to sustainability and supporting local charities. Many of Bellevue’s thrift stores are tied to nonprofit organizations, meaning that your purchases often go toward helping others in the community.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the best thrift stores Bellevue has to offer. From high-end resale boutiques to community-run shops, these stores provide not only an opportunity to shop sustainably but also to support causes like affordable housing and family services.

Whether you’re a seasoned thrifter or a newcomer, Bellevue’s thrift scene promises unique finds and affordable prices. Let’s dive into the top places where you can score both great deals and help make a difference in the local community.

Top 12 Best Thrift Stores in Bellevue Reviews

If you’re on the hunt for affordable treasures, Bellevue is home to some top-tier thrift stores that cater to various styles and needs. From furniture and home décor to clothing and accessories, these stores are a paradise for thrifters. Here’s a detailed review of the first three on our list, featuring essential details, customer reviews, and pros & cons to help guide your shopping.

1. Bellevue Habitat for Humanity Store

Location: 13500 Bel-Red Rd, Bellevue, WA 98005
Contact Information: (425) 641-2643
Google Rating: 4.5/5 (Based on over 150 reviews)

Bellevue Habitat for Humanity Store offers a unique shopping experience focused on home décor, furniture, and building materials. The inventory consists mostly of gently used items, donated by the community, with proceeds supporting Habitat for Humanity’s affordable housing projects. It’s a popular spot for homeowners looking to refurbish their spaces with budget-friendly yet quality items.

Pros:

Affordable furniture: Great selection of used furniture at prices significantly lower than retail.
Home improvement materials: Good variety of building materials, perfect for DIY enthusiasts.
Supports charity: Your purchases go directly to supporting affordable housing initiatives.

Cons:

Limited clothing options: Not the best spot if you’re looking for apparel.
Stock turnover: Inventory can vary greatly depending on donations, so you may not always find what you need on your first visit.

Overall Verdict:
This store is a must-visit if you’re furnishing a home or tackling a renovation project. You can score great deals while supporting a meaningful cause.

2. Bellevue LifeSpring Thrift Shop

Location: 302 Bellevue Square, Bellevue, WA 98004
Contact Information: (425) 454-6424
Google Rating: 4.7/5 (Based on over 80 reviews)

Located in the upscale Bellevue Square, the Bellevue LifeSpring Thrift Shop offers a more curated thrifting experience. This boutique-style thrift store features high-quality clothing, accessories, and small home goods. Bellevue LifeSpring’s mission is to support families in need through community outreach programs, with proceeds going toward providing financial assistance and basic needs for struggling families.

Pros:

High-quality items: Known for its upscale, gently used clothing and accessories.
Beautifully curated: The shop is well-organized, offering a boutique feel that makes browsing enjoyable.
Supports local families: Proceeds from sales go toward helping families in the Bellevue area, making your shopping experience even more meaningful.

Cons:

Smaller inventory: Since it’s a more boutique-style store, there may not be a wide variety of items at any given time.
Pricing: Items can be slightly more expensive than other thrift stores, but the quality justifies the price for most shoppers.

Overall Verdict:
For those seeking higher-end, gently used clothing and accessories while supporting a noble cause, Bellevue LifeSpring is a top choice in the Bellevue thrifting scene.

3. Jubilee REACH Thrift Store

Location: 2301 148th Ave NE, Bellevue, WA 98007
Contact Information: (425) 749-3346
Google Rating: 4.6/5 (Based on over 90 reviews)

Jubilee REACH Thrift Store stands out for its wide range of items, from clothing and accessories to furniture and home goods. This store has a reputation for being clean, well-organized, and full of friendly staff. What’s unique about Jubilee REACH is that it directly supports outreach programs within the local community, such as mentoring and housing assistance for those in need.

Pros:

Wide selection: Offers a diverse inventory that includes both household goods and clothing.
Friendly staff: Shoppers frequently comment on the warm, welcoming atmosphere and helpful employees.
Clean and organized: Known for its neat layout, making it easier to browse.

Cons:

Stock variation: As with most thrift stores, inventory depends on donations, which can mean a limited selection on some days.
Furniture quality: Some reviews mention the furniture offerings can be hit or miss depending on the day.

Overall Verdict:
If you’re looking for a well-rounded thrift store experience in Bellevue, Jubilee REACH is a fantastic option. You can shop for various items and feel good knowing that your purchases directly support community programs.

4. St. Margaret’s Thrift Shop

Location: 4228 Factoria Blvd SE, Bellevue, WA 98006
Contact Information: (425) 641-6830
Google Rating: 4.8/5 (Based on over 50 reviews)

St. Margaret’s Thrift Shop, located in the Factoria area of Bellevue, is a hidden gem for those looking for a well-curated selection of clothing, accessories, and home goods. Operated by St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church, this thrift shop supports a variety of charitable efforts, including local shelters and food banks. The store has a friendly atmosphere and is known for its cleanliness and organization, making it an enjoyable place to shop.

Pros:

Well-organized: Customers frequently mention how easy it is to browse the aisles due to the clean and organized layout.
Friendly staff: The volunteers running the store are often praised for their helpfulness and kindness.
Supports local charities: Proceeds go toward helping local community programs, including shelters and food services.

Cons:

Limited variety: Being a smaller store, the selection may not be as extensive as other larger thrift stores.
Pricing: While items are affordable, some customers have noted that certain items can be priced slightly higher compared to other stores.

Overall Verdict:
St. Margaret’s is a fantastic choice for those looking to support local charitable efforts while shopping for high-quality secondhand items. Its well-organized layout and friendly staff make for a pleasant shopping experience.

5. Goodwill Bellevue

Location: 14515 NE 20th St, Bellevue, WA 98007
Contact Information: (425) 649-2080
Google Rating: 4.1/5 (Based on over 400 reviews)

Goodwill Bellevue is one of the largest thrift stores in the area, offering an extensive selection of clothing, home goods, electronics, and more. Goodwill is a well-known national chain that supports job training and placement programs for people facing employment challenges. The Bellevue location is no exception, with its wide variety of affordable goods and commitment to helping the community.

Pros:

Huge selection: From clothing to electronics, Goodwill Bellevue has one of the most diverse inventories in the area.
Affordable pricing: Items are priced to be accessible, making it a great option for budget-conscious shoppers.
Charitable mission: Proceeds support Goodwill’s job training and employment programs, helping people find work in the community.

Cons:

Crowded: Due to its popularity, the store can get crowded, especially on weekends, making it harder to browse comfortably.
Customer service: Some reviews mention that customer service can be hit or miss depending on the day and staffing levels.

Overall Verdict:
Goodwill Bellevue is a go-to thrift store for a wide range of items, from furniture to clothing. Its large inventory and affordable prices make it a favorite among thrifters, though the busy environment might not be for everyone.

6. American Cancer Society Discovery Shop (Overlake)

Location: 14840 NE 24th St, Redmond, WA 98052 (Near Bellevue)
Contact Information: (425) 869-7523
Google Rating: 4.6/5 (Based on over 70 reviews)

The American Cancer Society Discovery Shop, located just a short drive from Bellevue in Redmond, offers a boutique-style shopping experience with a focus on upscale clothing, accessories, and small home goods. What makes this shop special is that all proceeds go toward supporting cancer research and patient support services. The store is known for its high-quality donations, often from affluent donors in the area, resulting in a wide selection of stylish items.

Pros:

High-quality items: Known for receiving donations of upscale clothing and accessories, making it ideal for fashion-conscious thrifters.
Boutique atmosphere: The store is beautifully organized and has a more curated feel compared to typical thrift stores.
Supports cancer research: All proceeds help fund cancer research and support programs, allowing shoppers to make a difference with their purchases.

Cons:

Smaller inventory: Being a boutique-style shop, the variety may be more limited compared to larger thrift stores.
Higher prices: Due to the high quality of the items, some customers find the pricing to be higher than what you’d typically expect from a thrift store.

Overall Verdict:
If you’re looking for upscale clothing and accessories while supporting a great cause, the American Cancer Society Discovery Shop is an excellent choice. Its boutique feel and focus on high-quality donations make it stand out from other thrift stores in the area.

7. Seattle Children’s Redmond Bargain Boutique

Location: 15137 NE 24th St, Redmond, WA 98052
Contact Information: (425) 746-3092
Google Rating: 4.7/5 (Based on over 60 reviews)

Seattle Children’s Redmond Bargain Boutique is a popular choice for thrift shoppers looking for quality clothing, accessories, and home goods. This store offers a well-curated selection of items, donated by local residents, with proceeds going directly to supporting Seattle Children’s Hospital. It’s known for its friendly, helpful staff and well-organized layout, making it an enjoyable place to shop. Additionally, due to the affluent nature of the surrounding neighborhoods, the quality of donations is often higher than average.

Pros:

High-quality donations: Customers praise the store’s upscale donations, often from wealthier neighborhoods.
Organized and clean: The store is well-maintained and easy to browse.
Supports children’s healthcare: Proceeds help fund critical healthcare programs at Seattle Children’s Hospital.

Cons:

Smaller store: It’s a boutique, so the inventory may not be as large as some other thrift stores.
Limited parking: Some customers mention that parking can be tricky, especially during peak hours.

Overall Verdict:
If you’re looking for a boutique-style thrift store with high-quality donations and the added bonus of supporting children’s healthcare, the Seattle Children’s Redmond Bargain Boutique is an excellent choice. The upscale feel and friendly staff make it a pleasure to visit.

8. Value Village Redmond

Location: 16771 Redmond Way, Redmond, WA 98052
Contact Information: (425) 883-2049
Google Rating: 4.2/5 (Based on over 500 reviews)

Value Village in Redmond is part of a popular thrift store chain known for its vast inventory and competitive pricing. This large location features a wide variety of items, including clothing, accessories, home décor, and furniture. The store is frequented by bargain hunters looking for everything from everyday essentials to unique vintage pieces. One of the perks of shopping here is their loyalty program, which offers discounts to frequent shoppers.

Pros:

Large selection: The store offers an extensive inventory, making it easy to find a variety of items.
Affordable pricing: Items are priced competitively, and sales are frequent.
Loyalty program: Regular shoppers can benefit from discounts and special offers.

Cons:

Can be crowded: Due to its popularity, the store can be quite busy, especially on weekends and sale days.
Inconsistent stock: Since the inventory is donation-based, the quality and selection of items can vary from day to day.

Overall Verdict:
Value Village Redmond is ideal for those who enjoy browsing through a large selection of secondhand items at affordable prices. While it can get crowded, it’s a go-to spot for budget-conscious thrifters looking for variety.

9. Mercer Island Thrift Shop

Location: 7710 SE 34th St, Mercer Island, WA 98040
Contact Information: (206) 275-7760
Google Rating: 4.6/5 (Based on over 100 reviews)

Mercer Island Thrift Shop is located just outside Bellevue, but it’s a favorite among locals. This nonprofit shop supports Mercer Island Youth & Family Services, and the high-quality donations reflect the affluence of the surrounding community. Shoppers can expect a well-organized store offering clothing, home goods, and children’s items. The store is well-known for its friendly staff and volunteer base, making for a welcoming shopping experience.

Pros:

High-quality items: The store is known for receiving donations from Mercer Island’s affluent community, offering gently used, sometimes brand-name items.
Supports community programs: All proceeds go toward supporting local family services and community programs.
Friendly atmosphere: Customers frequently mention the helpful staff and volunteers.

Cons:

Prices can be high: Due to the quality of items, some customers find the prices to be a bit higher than other thrift stores.
Limited parking: Parking can be a challenge, particularly during busy times.

Overall Verdict:
Mercer Island Thrift Shop is a top pick for shoppers seeking high-quality goods while supporting a good cause. While prices can be slightly higher, the store’s selection and welcoming environment make it worth the visit.

10. Crossroads Goodwill

Location: 14515 NE 20th St, Bellevue, WA 98007
Contact Information: (425) 649-2080
Google Rating: 4.2/5 (Based on over 450 reviews)

Located in Bellevue’s bustling Crossroads area, Crossroads Goodwill is another well-known store in the Goodwill family. Offering a wide selection of items, including clothing, accessories, home goods, electronics, and furniture, it’s popular with shoppers looking for affordable, gently used goods. The store is spacious, clean, and well-organized, making it easy to browse through its vast inventory. Like all Goodwill locations, it supports job training and employment programs, making your purchases meaningful.

Pros:

Wide selection: Large inventory of items across various categories, from clothing to electronics.
Affordable pricing: Known for competitive pricing, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious shoppers.
Clean and organized: Shoppers praise the cleanliness and organization of the store, which makes for a better thrifting experience.

Cons:

Can be busy: Due to its popularity, the store can get quite crowded, particularly on weekends and sale days.
Inconsistent stock: As with many thrift stores, the variety of items can vary depending on recent donations.

Overall Verdict:
Crossroads Goodwill is a top choice for shoppers looking for an extensive selection of affordable items. While it can get crowded at times, the variety and affordability make it a go-to spot for thrifters in Bellevue.

11. Overlake Service League Thrift Shop

Location: 167 Bellevue Square, Bellevue, WA 98004
Contact Information: (425) 454-6424
Google Rating: 4.5/5 (Based on over 90 reviews)

Overlake Service League Thrift Shop is located in the heart of Bellevue Square, offering a more curated selection of items including clothing, accessories, and home goods. This store has a long history of supporting local families through its charitable work, with proceeds going towards providing assistance to those in need within the community. The store’s inventory is carefully chosen, ensuring high-quality items for shoppers looking for second-hand bargains with a boutique feel.

Pros:

High-quality items: The store offers a well-curated selection, ensuring high standards in donations.
Supports local charities: Proceeds from sales go toward helping families in need in the Bellevue area.
Friendly staff: Customers frequently mention the helpful and welcoming staff.

Cons:

Limited inventory: As the store focuses on quality, it might not have as large a variety as bigger thrift stores.
Higher prices: Some shoppers note that the pricing can be higher compared to other local thrift stores.

Overall Verdict:
Overlake Service League Thrift Shop is an excellent choice for shoppers looking for a more curated, boutique thrift experience while supporting charitable causes. Though it may not have the volume of items that larger thrift stores offer, the quality of goods makes it a worthwhile visit.

12. St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Store (Burien)

Location: 13445 1st Ave S, Burien, WA 98168 (Nearby Bellevue)
Contact Information: (206) 243-6370
Google Rating: 4.3/5 (Based on over 100 reviews)

Though slightly outside Bellevue in Burien, St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Store is a popular destination for Bellevue thrifters. Known for its variety of household goods, clothing, and furniture, this store stands out for its mission of supporting charitable causes, including food programs, emergency financial assistance, and housing support. The store itself is well-organized, with frequent stock rotations, ensuring new finds for regular visitors.

Pros:

Great variety: Offers a wide range of goods, from furniture to clothing, at affordable prices.
Supports important causes: All proceeds go toward supporting St. Vincent de Paul’s charitable initiatives, making your shopping meaningful.
Frequent inventory changes: The store frequently rotates its stock, making it worth regular visits for new treasures.

Cons:

Can be crowded: As with many popular thrift stores, it can get busy, especially during weekends and sale days.
Variable quality: As donations come from a wide range of sources, some shoppers report inconsistent quality, particularly in furniture.

Overall Verdict:
St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Store in Burien is an excellent destination for thrifters looking for a broad selection of affordable items while supporting important charitable causes. Though outside Bellevue, it’s worth the short trip for its range of offerings and dedication to helping the community.

Tips for Successful Thrifting in Bellevue

Thrifting can be a fun and rewarding experience, especially in a city like Bellevue, where the thrift stores are known for their variety and quality. Whether you’re a seasoned thrifter or new to the world of second-hand shopping, these tips will help you get the most out of your Bellevue thrift store visits.

Shop Early and Often

Thrift stores in Bellevue have ever-changing inventories, so it’s important to shop frequently and visit early in the day for the best finds. Items in high demand, such as designer clothing or high-quality furniture, often go fast. Visiting on weekdays, especially in the mornings, can increase your chances of scoring rare finds before other shoppers arrive.

Know the Sales and Discounts

Many thrift stores offer discounts or special deals, particularly for frequent shoppers. Stores like Goodwill or Value Village often have color-coded tags, where certain colors are discounted on specific days. Additionally, some stores run promotions for donating goods, which can earn you coupons for future purchases. Keep an eye on store calendars or sign up for email alerts to stay informed about upcoming sales and discounts.

Have a Thrift Wish List

It’s easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer variety in thrift stores, so having a specific list of items you’re looking for can help keep you focused. Whether you’re hunting for vintage clothing, specific furniture, or home décor, a list will help streamline your shopping and ensure you leave with items you’ll actually use.

Inspect Items Carefully

When thrifting, especially for clothing or furniture, always inspect items closely for any damage, stains, or missing parts. While some minor imperfections can be easily fixed, major repairs may not be worth the price. Take a close look at zippers, seams, and electronics to ensure they’re in working order before making a purchase.

Ask About Restock Days

Some thrift stores restock items on certain days of the week. Ask the staff when they typically refresh their inventory to increase your chances of finding new and interesting pieces. For example, stores like Goodwill often restock daily, but the largest drops usually happen on certain weekdays after donation collections.

Be Open-Minded and Flexible

One of the best parts of thrifting is finding unexpected treasures. Be open to browsing different sections of the store or considering items you might not have originally planned on buying. This flexibility can lead to the discovery of unique and valuable pieces that you may not find in traditional retail stores.

Thrift Stores with Unique Offerings

Bellevue’s thrift store scene is more than just affordable fashion and home goods. Several stores in and around the city offer distinctive, niche items that set them apart from regular thrift shops. If you’re looking for something specific or simply want a unique shopping experience, these stores are perfect for you.

Seattle Children’s Redmond Bargain Boutique

Unique Offerings: Higher-end donations, including designer clothing, accessories, and home goods, are frequently found here due to the store’s location in an affluent area. Shoppers often praise the boutique for its upscale vibe and curated selection of merchandise.
What Makes It Special: All proceeds support Seattle Children’s Hospital, so shoppers can enjoy their purchases knowing they’re contributing to a good cause.

Bellevue Habitat for Humanity Store

Unique Offerings: Unlike typical thrift stores, this location specializes in home improvement items, from tools and building materials to large furniture pieces. It’s an excellent place for DIY enthusiasts or homeowners looking to furnish or renovate on a budget.
What Makes It Special: The store’s inventory often includes gently used or even brand-new home fixtures, donated from construction projects. Proceeds go toward Habitat for Humanity’s mission to provide affordable housing for those in need.

St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Store (Burien)

Unique Offerings: This store is known for its extensive furniture selection, which includes vintage and antique pieces. Many shoppers come specifically to find high-quality home furnishings at lower prices than elsewhere.
What Makes It Special: St. Vincent de Paul stores often carry a mix of everyday household goods alongside unique, one-of-a-kind pieces, making each shopping trip a different experience. The charitable mission of supporting people in need through food and housing programs adds a layer of purpose to your purchases.

Hosekibako Japanese Resale Store (Seattle)

Unique Offerings: For those interested in Japanese culture, Hosekibako offers a range of unique Japanese items, including traditional clothing, ceramics, books, and art. Located in Seattle but worth the short drive from Bellevue, it’s a small yet distinctive shop perfect for finding cultural treasures.
What Makes It Special: This shop is part of the Japanese Cultural and Community Center of Washington, and all proceeds support Japanese cultural preservation and education programs.

Value Village Redmond

Unique Offerings: Value Village offers an expansive selection of second-hand goods but is especially known for its vast collection of vintage clothing and accessories. The store also has a large home goods section with affordable décor and kitchenware.
What Makes It Special: The store is part of a global sustainability initiative, encouraging donations and recycling of goods that help reduce landfill waste while supporting local nonprofit organizations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Thrift Stores in Bellevue, WA

Q: What are the best thrift stores in Bellevue, WA?

Ans: Some of the top-rated thrift stores in Bellevue include:

Bellevue Habitat for Humanity Store for home improvement and furniture.
Bellevue LifeSpring Thrift Shop for clothing and accessories.
Jubilee REACH Thrift Store for a wide selection of affordable clothing and household items.
St. Margaret’s Thrift Shop for a well-curated mix of home goods and clothing.

Q: What should I look for when shopping at thrift stores in Bellevue?

Ans: When shopping at thrift stores, it’s important to:

Inspect items carefully for damage or wear.
Look for unique, one-of-a-kind items that you can’t find in regular retail stores.
Be open to repurposing or upcycling items, especially furniture or home goods.
Ask about restock days to visit when new items are put on display.

Q: Which Bellevue thrift stores support local charities?

Ans: Many thrift stores in Bellevue contribute to charitable causes:

Jubilee REACH Thrift Store supports community outreach programs.
Bellevue LifeSpring uses proceeds to help local families in need.
St. Vincent de Paul helps fund emergency financial assistance and food programs.
Seattle Children’s Redmond Bargain Boutique supports Seattle Children’s Hospital.

Q: When is the best time to shop at thrift stores in Bellevue?

Ans: The best time to shop is typically:

Early in the day: New items are often stocked in the morning.
Weekdays: Stores are less crowded, and you may have better access to fresh inventory.
Restock days: Ask your favorite thrift stores when they restock to plan your visits accordingly.

Q: Are there thrift stores in Bellevue that specialize in furniture?

Ans: Yes, several stores are great for finding second-hand furniture:

Bellevue Habitat for Humanity Store is known for its variety of home improvement items, including furniture.
St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Store (Burien) offers a wide selection of vintage and gently-used furniture.
Helping Hands Thrift Store has a smaller but carefully curated selection of home goods and furniture.

Q: How can I donate items to Bellevue thrift stores?

Ans: Most Bellevue thrift stores accept donations during their operating hours. Stores like Goodwill, Habitat for Humanity Store, and Jubilee REACH offer convenient drop-off points. It’s a good idea to call ahead or check their websites for specific donation guidelines and hours.

Q: Do thrift stores in Bellevue offer discounts or promotions?

Ans: Yes, many Bellevue thrift stores offer regular discounts and sales:

Goodwill and Value Village often have color-tag sales where specific tag colors are discounted.
Stores like Jubilee REACH and Bellevue LifeSpring may offer seasonal sales or discounts for donating items.

Q: Are thrift stores in Bellevue expensive?

Ans: Most thrift stores in Bellevue are budget-friendly. However, pricing can vary based on the type of items and the store itself:

Stores like Goodwill and Value Village tend to have very affordable pricing across all categories.
Higher-end boutiques like Seattle Children’s Redmond Bargain Boutique or Mercer Island Thrift Shop might have slightly higher prices, particularly for designer or rare items.

Q: Do Bellevue thrift stores carry vintage or designer items?

Ans: Yes, several Bellevue thrift stores are known for their selection of vintage and designer goods:

Seattle Children’s Redmond Bargain Boutique often features upscale and designer clothing.
St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Store (Burien) is popular for vintage furniture.
Bellevue LifeSpring and Value Village frequently have designer clothing at a fraction of the retail price.

Q: Are there eco-friendly thrift stores in Bellevue?

Ans: Thrift stores inherently promote eco-friendliness by offering second-hand goods, reducing waste, and supporting sustainability. Value Village is particularly focused on sustainability efforts by encouraging people to donate and recycle goods instead of sending them to landfills.