5 Kitchen Items You Should Never Buy at a Thrift Shop

Some of these items can expose you to lead, metals, and harmful chemical compounds.

As a lifelong thrifter, I know how to spot a good find. Heck, I’ve even jumped into a few dumpsters to get to them. Still, I find searching the shelves of thrift stores to be a much less messy way to grow my eclectic kitchenware collection on a budget. So take it from me (and Shakespeare) when I say all that glitters is not gold.

I’ve learned that the hard way—like the time I realized that I couldn’t actually drink out of the vintage crystal goblets I thrifted at an incredible price. And also the time I brought home a toaster only for it to nearly cause a fire in my kitchen. To avoid making those same mistakes, you’ll want to check out my list of kitchen items you should avoid buying at a thrift store.

1. Vintage Crystal & Glass

As beautiful as vintage crystal and glass may be, most that predate the 1980s contain lead. Because lead can leach into beverages and cause lead poisoning, serving or sipping from them is not recommended.

Pro tip: If you come across a set at your local thrift store that is simply too pretty to pass up, consider buying it for decorative purposes.

2. Old Mugs

Another category of drinkware to avoid is mugs—especially old ceramic mugs with cracks and chips. Like vintage crystal and glass, the glazing on old mugs often contains lead, as well as a host of other potentially harmful chemical compounds like calcium oxide.

Pro tip: Grab a few for looks or to fulfill your nostalgia, but otherwise, keep walking.

3. Small Appliances

Small appliances like toasters, blenders, mixers, and coffee makers aren’t exactly cheap. So when you spot them at a thrift store with a low price tag, you might be tempted to purchase them. Some might turn out to be just fine and last for years, but you will never know until you bring them home.

You might be thinking that the worst that can happen is that they won’t work, and you’ll be out a few bucks. However, from my experience, they often need a time-consuming cleaning (think crumbs, rust, and mineral build-up) or are on a mission to set your kitchen on fire.

Pro tip: Find a small appliance in immaculate condition? Ask a thrift store employee if you can plug it in to give it a test or, at the very least, for the return policy.

4. Nonstick (& Most Metal) Cookware

Nonstick pots and pans are usually donated in far-from-new condition, so always be on the lookout for dents, flaking, and scratches. A compromised coating can expose you to whatever metal lies beneath as well as to particles found in the actual coating.

Similar to nonstick, vintage aluminum and copper cookware that is dented, pitted, or has a deteriorated surface can expose you to harmful chemicals, especially when used to cook acidic or salty foods.

Pro tip: Stainless steel is typically a safe bet, but look for dents or other damage to the base since these can cause uneven heat distribution.

5. Cutting Boards

Nearly all wood cutting boards are porous. This means they soak up liquids from whatever foods they come in contact with and can harbor bacteria. With proper maintenance, wood cutting boards are a durable and safe cutting surface. The problem with buying them secondhand is that you don’t know what they were used for and how they were cleaned, making them a hard pass.

Pro tip: Unless you find a brand-new cutting board or plan to use a preloved board to decorate your countertop, skip this find.