Dirty Janes, one of Canberra’s most recommended second-hand furniture stores. Photo: Dirty Janes.
Looking to score an unbeatable deal on a new sofa? Want to kit out your home office without breaking the bank? On the hunt for that extra-special piece to complete your living room?
If so, head to a second-hand furniture store. The best second-hand stores are a treasure trove of quality furniture, accessories, décor items and even artwork. You’ll find an array of sofas, chairs, tables, stools, and much more. You may even uncover a unique, one-of-a-kind piece, or a stunning antique.
In this article, we’ll outline the qualities to consider when choosing a second-hand furniture store, and share where to find the best in Canberra.
What makes a great second-hand furniture store?
Visiting different second-hand furniture stores for a good browse will help you source what you’re looking for.
It can be helpful to keep the following in mind when choosing a second-hand furniture store.
- Excellent range. The best second-hand furniture stores have a great range across many styles. This includes modern and contemporary. It also includes older pieces, including vintage and antique.
- Fair prices. It’s true that you may well strike a real bargain and save heaps of money at a second-hand furniture store. At the same time, remember that second-hand doesn’t mean poor quality, so expect to pay a fair price for quality.
- Unusual finds. Great second-hand furniture stores often have interesting and unique pieces to sell. You’ll often find unusual items you won’t find in new furniture shops.
- Quality and integrity. There’s no point buying second-hand furniture if it’s not acceptable quality and won’t last. Check for second-hand furniture shops that source items with structural integrity.
- Delivery service. If you don’t have a vehicle big enough to transport your items, ask if the second-hand furniture store offers prompt and affordable delivery throughout Canberra. If not, you’ll likely have to arrange for your own delivery.
The best second-hand furniture stores in Canberra
Riotact’s editorial team has combed through 20 years of on-site comments to compile a list of the most recommended businesses according to you.
To be listed in our Best of Canberra series, each business needs to have consistently received positive feedback on Riotact and Facebook as well as maintaining a minimum average of 4/5 stars on Google.
Canberra Antiques Centre
If it’s a vintage or antique piece you are after, head over to the Canberra Antiques Centre. Since 2003, the passionate team behind this extensive second-hand store have curated a stunning collection of eclectic and inspiring furniture. Today, they specialise in a variety of styles, eras, and brands, including Jet Age, Kookaburra Australian Antiques, Merlin Prints, and more.
Vinnies Warehouse Mitchell
Vinnies shops, including the large warehouse in Mitchell, provide good quality furniture, household goods and clothing to families and to customers. Shoppers of all types are welcome, whether looking for a bargain or on the hunt for that vintage find. Proceeds from sales and donations go to Vinnies programs, designed to change lives every day.
Pierce Lang wrote on Google, “… shopping was second-to-none, with variety almost unseen anywhere else. Would definitely go back.”
Dirty Janes Canberra
Dirty Janes Canberra is a paradise for vintage collectors and creatives alike. It offers a unique shopping experience overflowing with curiosities and collectables. Visitors will find furniture, art, glassware, books, décor items and clothing. More than 90 independent dealers, decorators and general upcyclers operate in Canberra. Dirty Janes helps prevent unwanted goods going to landfill.
On Google, Carol O’Shea wrote, “My new favourite place to shop. They have vintage, new, and local handmade things, and such a huge selection.”
Designer Op Shop Emporium
Furniture, homewares, pre-loved clothing and accessories are all sold at Designer Op Shop Emporium. Items are high quality (not faulty, marked or in poor condition). Designer Op Shop Emporium is also known for having high-end luxury items in store. This collaborative group of small businesses specialises in a wide range of unique pieces.
Claudia Tetreault-Percy wrote on Google, “Best second-hand, vintage and modern spot to shop in Canberra! …There is something at DOS Emporium for everyone.”
The Salvation Army Mitchell
In Mitchell, the Salvos Store, has a wide range of furniture, mattresses, electrical goods, bric-a-brac and homewares for sale. Clothing, books and other items are also for sale. Shopping at the Salvation Army prevents items from damaging the environment by ending up in landfill. All profits from purchases and donations help fund The Salvation Army programs that transform lives for the better.
On Google, Subramaniam Sukumar wrote, “Polite staff. Reasonable prices and a huge variety on offer. A great shop.”
Ex-Government Furniture
The name really says it all. Ex-Government Furniture offers a massive collection of second-hand office furniture collected from government buildings throughout the nation’s capital. Their second-hand products are high-quality and low-priced. Alongside the used items, the store manufactures new office furniture.
Colin D wrote on Google, "Easy to deal with, good quality office furniture. They delivered everything on time the next day after purchasing."
If you’re looking for more information on second-hand items or other furniture stores, you might like our articles on the best op-shops, best furniture stores and best office furniture supply stores Canberra has to offer.
Your experience with second-hand furniture stores in Canberra
Thanks to our commenters who have provided insightful feedback, if you believe we have got it wrong, please let us know.
Have you had experience with any of the second-hand furniture shops listed above? If so, share your feedback in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do second-hand furniture shops have quality items?
Most have a selection of quality items, although it’s unlikely that all are in perfect condition. Like any furniture store, second-hand shops have a range of price points, with some items more expensive than others.
Is furniture in second-hand shops cheap?
Great bargains are available, but that’s not to say every item has is super cheap. The best second-hand furniture shops charge a fair price for items, depending on what the item is, its shape and structural integrity.
What other items do second-hand furniture shops sell?
Most second-hand furniture shops have small and large pieces for homes and even offices. This could include sofas, chairs, dining furniture, bedroom furniture and even outdoor furniture. At the best second-hand furniture shops, you’ll often find other home items, like lamps, accessories, and décor items. You might also uncover artwork, rugs and specialty items. Some have antiques too.
Do second-hand furniture shops provide warranties?
It’s best to ask staff at the shop if they offer warranties or guarantees.
Are second-hand furniture shops the same as antique shops?
Some second-hand furniture shops sell antique pieces, but they tend not to specialise in this area. If you’re only interested in antiques, head to a proper antique shop.
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