Second hand and ethical homeware: a buying guide

Buying second hand homeware might be a more sustainable (and stylish!) way to enhance your living space. By choosing pre-loved items, you not only discover one-of-a-kind pieces like vintage ceramics, antique furniture and charming glassware, you also extend the life of existing items.

Plus, when you shop at Oxfam, you’re also supporting vital work in tackling the inequality that fuels poverty. Whether you’re looking for a statement piece or refreshing your home, shopping pre-loved homeware is a more thoughtful choice.

Some people may have reservations about shopping second-hand due to concerns about quality. At Oxfam, we only sell good quality, clean items, and any donations that don't meet our criteria are not sold. We want to make sure that shopping second hand is just as enjoyable – if not more – than buying new, especially when you find something unique that suits you. Learn more about our donation criteria.

When shopping for homeware, buying from ethical brands is a powerful way to support fairer trading practices. But how do you know if a brand is truly ethical?

• Look for the FAIRTRADE Mark. Fairtrade is about better prices, safe working conditions, local sustainability, and fair terms of trade for farmers and workers.
• Learn how and where a brand sources its products. Ethical brands often prioritise locally-sourced materials and many also use eco-friendly processes and materials, such as recycled fabrics and upcycled goods to reduce their environmental impact.

With Oxfam’s Sourced by Oxfam range, we work hard to source products from accountable suppliers who put people and planet before profit – whether that’s through championing Fairtrade, caring for our planet, or creating fair employment for the people behind the products.

You can find all sorts of homeware from our Sourced by Oxfam brands. Put your feet up on this unique Recycled Sari Footstall made from recycled saris. Or carry your new finds in style with this lightweight Recycled Sari Fold Away Shopping Tote Bag.

There are also eco-friendly products you can use to keep your home clean and fresh. Miniml offers natural cleaning products that are cruelty-free and vegan. Their naturally fragranced Blood Orange Multi-Surface Cleaner not only leaves your home sparkling but also fills it with a refreshing scent.

Supporting brands like Miniml means you're making more planet-conscious choices while creating a clean and healthy home environment.

When it comes to homeware, investing in quality items that stand the test of time can be both financially savvy and more environmentally responsible. While high-quality products often come with a higher initial price tag, they often offer a longer product lifespan, saving you from the cycle of frequent replacements.

From vintage wooden furniture to cast-iron cookware, online marketplaces and second hand shops are treasure troves of durable goods with character and longevity.

Shopping second hand is also a great way to discover unique antiques or elegant silverware, adding a touch of timeless sophistication to your home.

And books aren't always just for reading – they can also serve as stylish décor. Second-hand books, with their aesthetically pleasing covers and vintage charm, can add a unique and stylish touch to any room in your home. By opting for second hand, you extend the life of these items and save money at the same time!

Upcycling existing homeware is a unique way to reduce waste by repurposing items you already own, extending their life and reducing the demand for new items. Not only is this approach more sustainable, it’s more creative, letting you customise pieces to suit your home’s style.

Many items can be upcycled, including wooden pallets into shelving, glass jars into stylish storage, or old textiles into cushion covers or rugs. Pairing second-hand shopping with upcycling offers endless possibilities for creating truly unique pieces. For instance, a thrifted dining chair can be painted and recovered to fit your décor, or vintage silverware can be fashioned into hooks or art pieces. Look for pre-loved homeware to start upcycling, shop now.

Once you get into the swing of upcycling, why not take it a step further and try transforming pieces from your wardrobe? For example, turn an old top into a trendy tote bag or repurpose a pair of worn-out jeans into unique denim placemats. With a bit of creativity, you can breathe new life into your clothes. Get started with some inspiring ideas.

Making more ethical choices for your home doesn’t have to be daunting – it can be an exciting journey of discovery and creativity. Oxfam offers a wide range of pre-loved and ethical homeware options that help you create a beautiful space.

And whether you’re shopping second-hand, exploring the Sourced by Oxfam range, or upcycling your finds, every purchase you make helps fund projects to build a fairer and more equal world. Visit Oxfam’s online shop or find your local shop today.