6 Valuable Kitchenware Brands Hiding at Thrift Stores

A collection of colorful dishes and glassware displayed on a gingham tablecloth — Credit:
JTGrafix / Getty Images

There's likely no section of the thrift store that holds such wins and losses as the kitchen department. Stained pans and chipped-beyond-repair dishes can proliferate across resale shop tables, leaving the real treasure for the pros who know how to spot them. Luckily, if you know what you’re specifically looking for, you can assess if an item is worth the purchase, estimate how likely it is to hold up, and quickly sift through the clutter.

“I'm drawn to specific brands because they stand the test of time,” says home décor and DIY expert Emily Huxford. “Those brands tend to have great longevity. I know that even though I'm picking up a piece halfway through its lifespan, it's still got many great years ahead of it."

Here are the brands you want at the top of your radar when you’re next browsing the kitchen section at a thrift shop. "These brands tend to make very durable, timeless pieces that you'll be able to use for many years to come," says Huxford.

Meet the Expert

Emily Huxford, thrifty home décor and DIY expert of Happily Huxford
Danielle Churchill, lifestyle influencer, home design curator, DIY and thrifting expert of Rad Home Co.

01 of 06

All-Clad

"A majority of the stainless steel cookware in my kitchen is thrifted All-Clad pieces," Huxford shares. "I specifically buy their stainless steel pots and pans."

A cookware expert knows well that, when purchased new, All-Clad's stainless steel pieces can fetch well over a hundred dollars per pan. However, through thrifting, "I've never paid more than $10 a pan," says Huxford.

02 of 06

Pampered Chef

Recognize that name? Pampered Chef pots and pans are a good thrift store find and more common than some higher-end brands. “You'll find Pampered Chef stainless steel more often than you'll find All-Clad stainless steel,” notes Huxford.

Fortunately, both brands are known for their quality. "Stainless steel pots and pans have an incredible lifespan," says Huxford. "And if you find one that is dirty or tarnished, you can always shine it back to its original luster. Never let stains on stainless steel deter you."

03 of 06

Le Creuset

Since Le Creuset pieces are widely sought-after (be it at the thrift store, yard sale, or online resale market), they're tougher to find—but well worth the hunt. While Huxford is still on the lookout for a traditional Dutch oven, she's gotten lucky with other cookware pieces from the beloved line.

"I have found other amazing Le Creuset pieces, including lots of bakeware, loaf pans, stockpots, ramekins, et cetera," says Huxford. "A large Dutch oven has eluded me, but I know one day I'll find one! The hunt is half the fun."

When thrifting for kitchenware, bring a small magnet with you to test for stainless steel pieces, as genuine stainless steel is not magnetic. This simple tool can help you distinguish between high-quality stainless steel and other materials, ensuring you're getting the durable items you're searching for.

04 of 06

Fiestaware

A collection of ceramic dishware including plates, bowls, teapots, and cups arranged together — Reid K Dalland / Getty Images

These classic dining sets will add irresistible pops of color to your tabletop. "Fiestaware is fun because the styles have largely remained the same over the years, but the colors are always cycling," Huxford explains. "So you can pick up a plate from 1970 in a shade you love and it will match the plate you buy that's new from 2025."

Try selecting a specific color family and looking for pieces within it whenever you're thrifting. "This allows you to build collections slowly over time of all the colors you enjoy most," says Huxford. "I personally collect Fiestaware in shades of green, so all of my dishes are matching styles but different greens."

05 of 06

Pyrex

"Pyrex is a thrifter’s dream because it’s durable, iconic, and—if you’re lucky—highly collectible," says Danielle Churchill of Rad Home Co. “I’m usually on the lookout for mixing bowls, casserole dishes with lids, and glass measuring cups.”

A pro tip: If the Pyrex logo is in uppercase lettering (PYREX), it was likely made from borosilicate glass, which Churchill explains is more resistant to thermal shock and safer for high-heat cooking. Lowercase pyrex usually means it’s made from soda-lime glass—”still beautiful, but make sure to treat those with extra care when using them with heat,” she adds.

06 of 06

One-of-a-Kind Pottery

While not a specific brand, these pieces are surely worth keeping an eye out for. Churchill is also always on the lookout for one-of-a-kind ceramics. “While the big-name brands are fun to spot, some of my most treasured kitchen pieces are handmade ceramics," says Churchill.

"I love collecting things that have wabi-sabi energy: organic shapes, unique glazes, and slight imperfections that make them feel human," she explains. "I love finding bowls, cups, and little dishes; bonus points if the glaze is moody or textural."

6 Valuable Kitchenware Brands That Could Be Hiding at Your Local Thrift Store