Looking for Toxic Dorm Decor? Try buying second-hand

This way, you avoid having a lot of things you spent money on, didn’t use, and then have to give away or go home at the end of the year.

As director of operations and engagement at UVA, Garner oversees approximately 20 students who work to create and promote environmentally conscious initiatives throughout the Grounds.

One such initiative is the Green Your Dorm event, which teaches first-year students to incorporate sustainable practices – such as washing clothes in cold water – into their daily routines, helping them adapt to independent living.

Another habit that is often overlooked is buying second hand furniture for dorm needs and decorations.

“It’s always surprising to see the number of new pieces of furniture that end up in dumpsters at the end of the school year because students can’t take them home or don’t have room for a donation,” Garner said. “Buying things used is a great thing because you can give that thing a second life.”

Why Buy Used?

Garner says buying used items is a “win-win-win solution.”

“From a sustainability perspective, you’re giving things a second life and keeping them out of the landfill,” he explains. “Financially, used equipment is generally cheaper than buying new.”

According to Garner, the final “win” is the opportunity to support small businesses, especially in the city of Charlottesville.

Taking extra time and care when shopping for dorm decor and your needs can make a big difference. Here are some ways to find antiques on a budget.

Student Group Discussions

Social media is a great way to connect with other students who sell items at low prices.

Another popular GroupMe discussion, “Things for the Low,” has about 4,000 members, many of whom are UVA students who buy and sell things. Whether you are looking for furniture, clothes, room decorations or books, you can find what you need in this category. If you are looking for something, send a message to ask about it.

When you find the item you want, message the seller to arrange a time and place to pick it up. For safety, verify vendor identity through UVA People Search and bring a friend to the meeting, right somewhere on the Grounds.

Asking for dorm essentials from your classmates cuts down on waste and saves you money. To prevent hackers from joining these groups, ask your resident advisor to give you a link to these discussions when you get to Grounds.

Charlottesville’s antique shops

If you can’t find what you need in bulk, Charlottesville is home to several antique shops and thrift stores, accessible on foot or by riding the Charlottesville Area Transit bus.

Twice Is Nice is a non-profit thrift store that offers gently used furniture, clothing, jewelry and home goods at a fraction of the original price. Most of the staff are volunteers, and the proceeds go toward supporting senior living in the Charlottesville community.

Twice Is Nice is located on Preston Avenue, across from the Dairy Market. For more menu items, don’t forget to check out Twice is Nice II, which is also located across the street.

Vintage shops like Arsenic and Old Lace, Neon Soul and Low are located in the Downtown Mall, accessible by walking or taking the CAT trolley. These stores offer vintage, second-hand clothing, accessories, and furniture, but they tend to be less expensive.

“My favorite is Habitat for Humanity,” Garner said. Located on Harris Street, the Habitat Store sells furniture and home decor at discount prices.

UVA’s ReUSE Store

Located at 580 McCormick Rd., The ReUSE Store is a collection of leftovers – items not taken or discarded, regardless of age and condition – from the University, some of which may be useful in student accommodation.

“I saw paintings, plants and a lot of different things for sale,” said fourth-year Aliza Diop, one of the Sustainability Office staff. Anyone can buy items from the ReUSE Store at a low price.

While you’re not guaranteed to find what you need by checking out the ReUSE Store, starting there before shopping at a big box store is a good idea and a commitment to a more sustainable lifestyle.

Students can attend the Green Your Dorm event on Aug. 30 from 1 to 3 pm in the Student Garden, located at the corner of Alderman and McCormick streets, to learn more about creating a more sustainable dorm environment.