The next time you’re looking for a new piece of art, a rug, or even a coffee table for your home, consider checking out your local Buy Nothing Group. Described as the local “gift economy,” Buy Nothing (BN) groups are neighborhood groups formed so neighbors can gift things to each other. Some groups are limited to a specific neighborhood, while others may be restricted to an area within a specific cross street; this varies by location. All have the same mission: “To give generously to others and share things as gifts,” the official Buy Nothing website states. If you’re short on cash and want to make your home your own, furnishing with Buy Nothing is a great option.
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Founded in 2013 by Rebecca Rockefeller and Liesel Clark on Bainbridge Island, WA, Buy Nothing has grown into a movement that includes a mobile app, a book, and over 7,000 groups around the world. In addition to helping your neighbors with unwanted items, participating in a BN group can help save items from the landfill. This is important because, according to the EPA, 2.1 kilograms of waste is generated per person each day in the United States. Additionally, in 2018, the EPA found that 80.1% of furniture and home furnishings ended up in the landfill. Whether you’re looking for a good deal, on a tight budget, or want to live a more eco-friendly lifestyle, there’s a way to make BN groups work for you and your home. If you’re new to the Buy Nothing world, here’s an introduction.
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Find decoration and furniture via Buy Nothing
Home decor, art, and furniture are common in BN groups. On an average week, there might be a lamp, chair, or end table, along with smaller items like picture frames or flower pots. The more group members, the more variety you’re likely to see in items. Sometimes items might need a little love, like a new coat of paint, but these issues are usually exposed when gifting. If you’re in the mood for a craft project, chances are you’ll find materials for your next DIY idea, like turning discarded couch cushions into a headboard. If you keep an eye on the posts, it’s possible you’ll find an item for every room in your house. For example, House Digest writer Erika Dale says, “I was gifted a beautiful piano from my Buy Nothing group. They even delivered it. Such a great gift!”
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Don’t forget that a central part of Buy Nothing culture is also gift giving. This is perfect for getting rid of unwanted items after you’ve cleaned out your house. This can be helpful, especially if you’ve ever fallen into the trap of collecting items to donate but then leaving them on your doorstep or rattling around in the trunk of your car. With a BN group, the people who want your items will come to you, sometimes even just up the street. You might even make a new friend when you meet up with neighbors. To get the best experience, make sure you follow a few simple rules.
The “Buy Nothing” experience
If you’ve found a group through Facebook or the Buy Nothing website, the first thing to do is familiarize yourself with the rules. The most important rule is that money is never exchanged; it’s strictly gift-giving. Other guidelines are that all items must be legal (i.e., no live animals) and that you must participate as yourself. You must also give what you can freely and pick up when you say so. Groups are self-policing, so your local group may have additional rules, such as not consistently taking without giving something in return. Some people offer porch pickup, while others may require meet-ups. Addresses and information are shared between members through the Facebook or BN website. Some users offer items on a first-come, first-served basis, while others may hold a raffle to choose among interested commenters.
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Your group may allow “ISO” or “Looking For” posts, where you can list items you’re looking for to see if anyone can fulfill the request. In this case, you can ask for specific items and get exactly what you need for your home. However, it’s best to post just a few items rather than a long list of 15+ things you’re looking for. Some groups do mass ISOs where everyone comments on what they need, while other groups allow individual ISOs. Again, it varies from group to group, so if you’re ready to start furnishing your home on a budget, find your local Buy Nothing group and let the hunt begin.
