If you’ve been around here long enough you’ll know how much I love the concept of ‘home’ and my conviction that what we put in them, and how we organise and style them, has a huge impact on our happiness. Part of that for me is encouraging ethical consumption where possible. Fast interiors are following swiftly on the heels of fast fashion with its impact on the environment and the fact it disproportionately affects BIPOC. Building a home (or wardrobe- two of the main ways we express our identities) on those foundations feels… not ideal. I’m not directing this at people who genuinely don’t have the funds available, and the odd piece here and there might be a good in-between option for folk who are transitioning to more ethical choices. Anyway- back to the point of this post! My favourite place to find interiors treasures could be summarised as second hand; whether via shops and markets or second hand selling sites. But more specifically, I have found lots of lovely things recently on Facebook Marketplace. In the images below, the collection of vintage fans were from Facebook Marketplace last year (for £6 and a 20-minute drive, not bad eh?), and last week I spotted this framed Picasso print for £10! I couldn’t believe it and the lovely seller even dropped it to my home. I am in love!

I love buying second hand- both for my home, my kids, and myself. It’s often the cheapest way to shop and with pretty much zero environmental impact. It’s also often really unique; you avoid that thing where every home has the same things in it from Ikea, H&M Home and Zara Home.

My Banana Plant above was another facebook Marketplace find, from a local online plant shop, again delivered for £20.

With lots of charity and vintage shops still closed, it can be hard to find online second hand items. Ebay is a great option, as is Gumtree. Here are some Facebook Markletplace specific tips.

Top Tips for shopping on Facebook Marketplace

1. If you need anything specific you can save a search and be notified when something that matches it is listed. (instructions below)

2. But a random browse can offer up some gems (like my Picasso print). I have searches saved for “Vintage homeware” in my local area which is really broad, as well as vintage oil paintings and plants. I have others for kids clothes and shoes that I know mine need.

3. If you arrange to collect, do show up! Arrange to meet somewhere public if you feel unsure about going to a stranger’s house. During COVID, discuss issues like antibacterial wipes, masks, and contactless drop-offs before you get to the location.

4. Even if an item is miles away, the seller might be up for posting if you cover the postage and packing, always ask if you’ve found something amazing!

How to use Facebook Marketplace on your phone

On your phone, the marketplace icon is at the bottom of your screen (circled below). Tap it.

Search for whatever you’re looking for, altering the search radius. Click the alarm bell in the top right hand corner- circled here, and input your price. You’ll now be notified for whatever it is you need.

Have you used it before? what’s been your best find?

Hannah x