7 Simple Tips to Thrift the Perfect Secondhand Mirror

Mirror Mirror On The Wall: How To Thrift The Best One Of Them All

Mirrors are more than just practical—they’re statement pieces, space-expanders, and sometimes, **unexpected works of art—**I actually like to call them living art because of how beautifully they reflect a well designed space.

But thrifting mirrors can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re new to secondhand shopping.

You might be asking yourself, Where do you start? How do you know what’s worth it? What about all those “haunted mirror” superstitions?

If you’re asking these questions, don’t worry—you’re not alone.

Whether you’re a seasoned thrifter or just starting your journey, mirrors are a category that requires a mix of strategy, intuition, and a little know-how.

New to thrifting entirely?

Check out my Thrifting for Beginners series, where I’ll teach you how to navigate thrift stores, avoid rookie mistakes, and uncover hidden treasures.

And if you’re on the hunt for even more budget-friendly style inspiration, don’t miss Cheap Thrills: Where Style Inspo Meets Savings.

In this blog, we’re diving deep into the art of thrifting mirrors. From addressing superstitions to knowing your style, spotting quality, and shopping strategically, you’ll leave with all the tools you need to find the perfect mirror for your space. Let’s reflect on everything you need to know to thrift like a pro—pun absolutely intended.

1. Superstition, Stigma, and Secondhand Mirrors: Should You Be Worried?

Secondhand mirrors come with history—but do they come with hauntings? Let’s separate spooky myths from reality.

Let’s address the supernatural elephant in the room—Some people have serious superstitions about thrifting mirrors.

You may be asking yourself, “Why mirrors?”

Well Bestie, some people believe mirrors hold onto past energy; while others claim they’re a portal to other dimensions or the upside down (cue the dramatic music and Stranger Things vibes).

Listen, I’m no scientist, any more than I’m a psychic medium with connections to the other side. So, I’m definitely not one to say if there is or isn’t any scientific evidence to back up or dispute these claims.

What I do know is that I don’t go digging around for answers I might not want. Sometimes ignorance really is bliss.

While the allure of the unknown has certainly added a layer of mystique to these reflective treasures, I’ve never had any issues—and if you have, well, remember what I said about ignorance. Exactly.

So keep it to yourself!

Because let’s be real—if I was going to let a little thing like supernatural paranoia stop me, I wouldn’t be thrifting any antiques! And that’s just too much good stuff for me to pass up.

But if you’re feeling hesitant, you can always use these tips:

• Give it a Fresh Start: Wipe the mirror down with your favorite cleaning solution or give it a little smudge with sage if you’re into that sort of thing. Consider it a symbolic reset, clearing out any lingering vibes from its past life.

• Trust Your Gut: If a mirror (or anything for that matter) doesn’t “feel right,” then for the love of God, pass. Trust me. I’ve seen dolls that are the stuff nightmares are made of. So Bestie, always trust your intuition—it’s your best guide, both in thrifting and in life.

• Remember the Practical Side: Mirrors are hella expensive, and the budget-friendly aspect of secondhand mirrors is truly unmatched. So if you’re like me, you’ll take your chances—unless you’re living in a horror movie. (In that case, maybe stick with modern retail.)

For the rest of us, embracing the charm of a thrifted mirror is far more rewarding than worrying about its demonic past.

Now that we’ve cleared the spooky air around secondhand mirrors, let’s focus on something a little more fun—finding one that actually fits your style.

If you’re still feeling unsure about buying a secondhand mirror or thrifting in general, don’t miss Thrift Myths Exposed: Debunking Secondhand Shopping Misconceptions—it breaks down all the outdated beliefs that could be holding you back.

2. Know Your Style: Find the Mirror That Matches Your Aesthetic

The right mirror isn’t just functional—it’s a statement piece. Find one that reflects your style (literally and figuratively).

The secondhand market is overflowing with mirrors, ranging from antique to modern and everything vintage in between.

That’s why (justs like with thrifting anything) it’s crucial to have a clear sense of your style from the start.

A clear sense of style will help you differentiate between when to pass and when to purchase. Don’t settle for a 1970s vintage mirror if your heart is set on something ornate from the Victorian era.

That said, don’t overlook eras inspired by the styles you love.

For instance, the Hollywood Regency era drew heavily from the Renaissance era. While I personally think some Hollywood Regency pieces feel over-the-top or gaudy, there are still gems that align with my style. Plus, replicas from these inspired eras are often easier to find—and they usually come at a fraction of the price of original antiques.

More than likely you’ll have an eclectic aesthetic that combines the styles of several eras. With one or two eras forming the foundation of your overall style.

If you’re not quite sure how to define your style, I highly recommend checking out my blog series Timeless Treasures, where we dive into different design eras, their key influences, and signature styles. Each post comes with a curated Pinterest mood board to help you get a feel for the style and spark inspiration.

Need help defining exactly what pieces you want to thrift from your desired aesthetic? Secondhand Dreams: How to Create the Ultimate Thrift Wishlist walks you through the process of mapping out your thrift wishlist to help you thrift with intention.

To curate a space that feels authentically you, Collected, Not Copied: Decorating with Thrifted Finds Beats Fast Trends will help you choose mirrors—and other pieces—that reflect your personal style, not just passing trends.

Because knowing your style is just the first step—once you’ve honed in on the mirrors that align with your aesthetic, it’s time to dig deeper.

With your vibe in mind, the next step is making sure the mirror is worth bringing home.

If you're looking to match your mirror to a soft, feminine vibe, How To Thrift A Dreamy Romantic Feminine Bedroom Aesthetic offers beautiful inspiration for building a cohesive look.

3. Quality Over Perfection: Spot Hidden Gems

A little vision and a fresh coat of paint can turn a forgotten thrifted mirror into a showstopper. Spot the potential, not just the flaws!

When it comes to thrifting mirrors, prioritizing quality over perfection is certainly key. But let’s be honest—quality is a bit subjective, so here are some key things to consider.

A sturdy frame is ideal.

I recommend looking for well-made materials over surface-level sturdiness.

And now you’re thinking, “Okay... but why?”

A well-crafted frame made of wood, metal, or even hard plastic can usually be reinforced with a little TLC—think strong glue, nails, screws, or even brackets.

For example, older frames made of wood, experience shrinkage over time. The shrinking of the wood can cause it to pull away from the nails or screws holding it together. That doesn’t mean the frame lacks quality—it just means it needs a little extra tlc in the reinforcement department.

The beauty of these imperfect finds? They’re often priced lower and ignored by other shoppers,so they’re great opportunities for snagging a bargain.

As for the glass, don’t stress over finding perfection.

This is especially true with antique mirrors.

Older mirrors often have ripples, bubbles, or desilvering, which not only add character but can make them more valuable to collectors. These imperfections lend a unique, aged touch to your home that modern pieces just can’t replicate.

Remember, thrifting is all about sourcing secondhand treasures—things aren’t going to be flawless.

Instead, be ready to look beyond the imperfections and embrace the charm of a piece with history.

And if you need a little encouragement to let go of the “perfect” ideal, check out my blog Perfectly Imperfect: How Thrifting Helped Me Ditch Perfectionism. It’s a game-changer for learning to see beauty in flaws.

Now that we’ve embraced the charm of imperfection and the importance of quality, let’s turn our attention to something that can’t be overlooked: size. Whether you’re looking for a grand statement piece or a smaller accent for a cozy corner, size truly matters when it comes to thrifting mirrors.

Want to sharpen your eye for quality? Check out Fix It or Skip It: Essential Considerations for Secondhand Treasures and Treasure Hunting Hacks: Simple Thrift Shopping Strategies to Spot Gems for tips on spotting hidden value without getting stuck with something unfixable.

4. Size Matters: Pick the Perfect Dimensions for Your Space

The right mirror size can make or break a space. Here’s how a well-placed statement mirror above the bed creates balance and elegance.

Mirrors are a fantastic way to add character and open up a space, which is especially crucial in the cramped, cookie-cutter design of most apartments.

Whether large or small, mirrors can work wonders in creating a sense of depth and dimension, transforming even the most basic layouts into something unique.

The key is to find mirrors that properly fill the space you plan to style.

I’m a firm believer that there’s a time and place for every type of mirror—from oversized pieces that anchor blank walls to dainty ones that add just the right touch to a countertop. The trick is avoiding mirrors that feel either too big or too small for the space—they should complement the area, not overpower or disappear in it.

Not sure what size you actually need, this is where your thrift wishlist really proves its worth? Secondhand Dreams: How to Create the Ultimate Thrift Wishlist (yep, it’s that helpful) also covers taking key measurements and planning ahead—so you don’t end up with a mirror that’s way too big or hilariously tiny.

Now as a renter, it’s totally understandable to hesitate when it comes to hanging large mirrors—you don’t want to damage the walls and risk losing your deposit.

But here’s the secret—Hanging a large mirror without mishaps comes down to three key factors—ensuring the frame is sturdy, using adequate wall hangers, and following proper hanging techniques.

If you're worried about how to safely hang larger mirrors without damaging your walls, The Ultimate Guide to Renter-Friendly Wall Hanging has you covered with smart, secure solutions.

If a large mirror doesn’t feel sturdy enough to confidently hang, no worries! Large mirrors can easily be styled in other ways, like leaning against a wall as a chic floor mirror.

Want even more ideas for styling your thrifted mirror? Thrifted Mirror Magic: Budget-Friendly Styling Tips for Stunning Apartment Decor breaks down how to turn secondhand finds into standout statement pieces.

With size checked off your list, let’s talk about how to keep your mirror as budget-friendly as it is beautiful.

5. Don’t Overpay: Find Budget-Friendly Treasures

Yes, this stunning ornate mirror was only $14.99 at Goodwill! Finding high-end style on a thrift store budget is totally possible.

It’s no secret that mirrors can be outrageously expensive when purchased new, but overpaying isn’t exclusive to retail.

In my experience, mirrors are everywhere—as the old saying goes, they’re a dime a dozen. That makes it easy to find them secondhand without breaking the bank.

Which is why (as a general rule), I don’t recommend buying mirrors from antique malls, antique stores, or even places like Facebook Marketplace—unless you’re hunting for something incredibly specific or stumble upon an unbeatable deal.

Thrift stores are your best bet for sourcing affordable mirrors, especially older antique ones.

At large thrift chains like Goodwill, I’ve rarely seen mirrors priced above $25, with most falling under $15. The same imperfections that often make antique mirrors more affordable at secondhand stores—like a worn patina—are exactly what drives up the price in antique shops.

I highly encourage you to use the pricing discrepancy to your advantage.

Another budget-friendly option? Online auctions.

However, keep in mind that mirrors—particularly antique ones—are still highly sought after, which can lead to bidding wars. That’s why it’s important to shop strategically to avoid overpaying. When in doubt, I always recommend doing a quick Google image search to get a baseline for value and price point.

Worried about paying too much? Never Pay Too Much: Smart Thrifting Hacks for Savvy Shoppers and No Regrets: Insider Secrets to Thrifting Without Buyer’s Remorse are packed with practical strategies to help you spot fair pricing—and avoid that sinking feeling post-purchase.

Not sure where to start your thrift store treasure hunt? Check out my blog: Where to Thrift: 12 Options For Secondhand Shopping (pros & cons). It’s packed with tips on finding the best thrift stores, so you’ll always know where to go to snag a great deal.

Once you’ve locked in a great price, it’s time to focus on the real showstopper—the frame, which can make or break your mirror’s impact.

6. The Frame Is (Almost) Everything: Why It’s Worth the Hunt

Who says a picture frame can’t be a mirror? The right frame is worth the hunt—sometimes, all it needs is a little creativity.

When it comes to mirrors, the frame does more than hold it all together—it helps set the entire tone for your space.

And a stunning frame can make all the difference—think ornate plaster details or intricate hand-carved opulence. Even if it’s a little worse for wear, it might still be a hidden gem.

Remember, rickety old frames can often be reinforced, missing plaster details can be fixed, and broken or damaged glass can be replaced. So if the design speaks to you then it might be worth a little TLC.

Sometimes, all it takes is a little creativity and DIY magic to reimagine what something could be. Old frames of all kinds can be transformed into the mirror of your dreams with a simple pane of mirrored glass. So when you're browsing items like picture frames or chalkboards, keep in mind—they can easily be repurposed into a one-of-a-kind mirror.

And don’t forget, the DIY magic can go both ways.

If you find a mirror with a frame you love but replacing the glass is too difficult or expensive, consider transforming it into something new—a statement frame for art, a chalkboard, or even a bulletin board. You could even display the frame on its own as a piece of art.

There’s no shortage of ways to breathe new life into a unique frame that’s lost its luster and outlived its original function.

If you’ve got a blank wall begging for attention, From Dull to Dazzling: The Magic Wand for Blank Walls shares creative ways to use mirrors and more to transform your space without blowing your budget.

Want to know what makes a frame worth the splurge—or a pass? Furniture Finds: Smart Tips for Thrifting Perfect Secondhand Pieces and Fix It or Skip It: Essential Considerations for Secondhand Treasures can help you evaluate quality, style potential, and repurposing options like a pro.

Once you’ve got an eye for great frames, the next piece of the puzzle is knowing when to shop to score the best mirror finds.

7. Thrifting at the Right Time: When to Find Mirror Magic

Timing is everything! This stunning $17.99 thrifted mirror was a last-minute Goodwill gem—proof that patience pays off.

When it comes to thrifting mirrors (or anything else, really), timing can be the difference between snagging a stunning find and walking away empty-handed.

The best thrift scores are usually about being in the right place at the right time, and with thrifting growing in popularity by the day timing is everything.

When it comes to mirrors, there are two camps—those who avoid buying them secondhand (as we covered earlier), and those of us who snatch them up every chance we get. And with gallery walls trending, demand is only growing.

In my experience, a quality ornate mirror doesn’t last more than 24 hours in a thrift store—and that’s being generous, especially if it’s vintage or antique. That’s why mastering your timing is more important than ever.

But how do you know when to shop?

It all comes down to understanding the rhythm of your favorite thrift stores. From early mornings to midweek magic, knowing the best times to shop can make all the difference.

If you’re ready to dive deeper into the secrets of timing your thrift trips, check out my blog: 6 Best & Worst Times to Go Thrift Shopping.

It’s packed with tips and insights to help you master the timing game, so you’ll always be one step ahead of the competition. Once you’ve got that down, your next great mirror find might just be waiting on your next thrift adventure.

Wrapping It Up: Mirror Magic Awaits

A well-thrifted mirror can transform any space. With the right find and a little styling, mirror magic awaits!

Thrifting mirrors is about more than saving money—it’s about discovering pieces with history, charm, and endless potential. More than that, it’s about adding another element to help you create a style and a little piece of heaven that’s uniquely you. So, Bestie, from navigating superstitions to understanding quality, size, and timing, you’re now equipped to hunt down the perfect mirror for your space. The treasures are out there waiting for you—it’s time to go find them.

But let’s not stop here. Finding the perfect mirror is just the beginning—how you style it can truly transform your space. Stay tuned for the next blog in this series: Thrifted Mirror Magic: Budget-Friendly Styling Tips for Stunning Apartment Decor. We’ll explore everything from placement tips to repurposing ideas, so you can make the most of your secondhand finds.

Oh yeah, and remember how I said to keep your supernatural stories to yourself? Well, I lied. If you’ve got any spine-chilling, chill-inducing, or downright spooky mirror-thrifting tales, spill the tea in the comments below—the suspense is killing me!

Not into the ghostly vibes? No worries—share your most unique or stunning mirror finds instead! Let’s turn this into a treasure trove of inspiration.