Pre-owned Paradise: Deschutes County, Oregon!

Secondhand. Worn. Hand-me-downs. Nearly new. Old. There are a lot of words for shopping used. Whatever you call it, shopping used rather than new is an excellent way to help prevent waste! Better than I could ever have said it, Roundabout Home Consignments has a great description of why second hand is so great on their environmental principles page. And we have no shortage of shops in Deschutes County that offer a wide array of used things. What are you looking for? Even if you don’t find it, studies show that shopping makes you feel good whether or not you actually buy stuff.

Adam Minter, the author of Secondhand, who recently did an interview on Fresh Air, says “The best thing you can do to reduce the environmental impact of your consumption…is not buy more stuff.” But the next best thing (particularly during the holiday increase of waste production) is to buy second-hand stuff! There are DOZENS of places in Deschutes County where you can find all kinds of second-hand stuff. Check out this handy map where you can find them all. Well, maybe — are we missing any place?

Here are a few highlights:

1. The Gear Fix – This shop has a seasonal array of outdoor gear. It operates on consignment so you can earn a percentage for your old gear and clothes! Plus, they double as a fixit shop for the same gear: bicycles, shoes, clothing, and outdoor gear can be repaired!
   550 SW Industrial Way #183, Bend, OR 97702
2. Second Tern – Sunriver’s best-kept secret! Although they are only open Friday and Saturday 10 am – 3 pm, it is well worth a trip!
   17377 Spring River Rd, Sunriver, OR 97707
3. ReStores! – Did you know the EPA estimates that 548 million tons of construction and demolition waste is generated EVERY YEAR in the United States? When remodeling, ReStore is a great place to shop. The best part is there is one each in Bend, Redmond, Sisters, and La Pine!
   Bend: 224 NE Thurston Ave, Bend, OR 97701
   Redmond: 1242 S Hwy 97, Redmond, OR 97756
   Newberry/La Pine: 52684 US-97, La Pine, OR 97739
   Sisters: 254 W Adams Ave, Sisters, OR 97759
4. Roundabouts Home Consignments is tucked away on 2nd and Lafayette in midtown Bend. Not only are the products of good quality and fairly priced, but there is also a tiered price reduction system depending on how long the item has been in the store. And better yet, Gavin, the shop’s co-owner, has a really great perspective on the environmental benefits of buying second hand.

What’s your favorite pre-owned shop?