You’ve seen the big red and white sign on Imperial Highway. Maybe you’ve even pulled into the lot, lured by the promise of a vintage leather jacket or a $5 blender. But thrifting at Savers in La Mirada CA has changed. Honestly, if you haven’t been there in a year or two, you’re walking into a different beast entirely. It isn't just a neighborhood junk shop anymore. It’s a high-volume retail operation that requires a bit of strategy if you actually want to leave with a deal.
I’ve spent way too many Tuesday mornings digging through those racks.
The Reality of Pricing at Savers in La Mirada CA
Let’s be real for a second: some of the prices are getting a little wild. It’s the number one thing people complain about when they walk through the doors at 15825 Imperial Hwy. You’ll find a Target-brand t-shirt marked for $7.99 when it probably cost $8.00 new. It’s frustrating.
Why does this happen? Savers is a for-profit company, which is a fact that catches a lot of people off guard. Unlike some smaller local charities, they operate on a massive scale. They buy their inventory from nonprofit partners—specifically the American Red Cross for this location. They pay the charity for the items you donate, which is great for the Red Cross, but it means Savers has overhead to cover.
If you want the "old school" thrift prices, you have to hunt for the tag of the day. They usually have a color-coded system where specific tags are 50% off. If you aren't shopping the colors, you're likely overpaying. Also, the "Super Savers Club" is basically mandatory now. It’s a free loyalty program, but without it, you're missing out on the points that lead to 20% off certificates.
What to Look For (And What to Skip)
The La Mirada location is huge. It sits right near the corner of Imperial Highway and Santa Gertrudes Avenue, tucked back near the Popeyes. Because it serves a pretty established suburban community, the housewares section is a goldmine. You aren't just finding chipped mugs here.
The Kitchen Isle
I’ve seen high-end Le Creuset Dutch ovens (rarely, but they happen) and brand-new-in-box air fryers. People in La Mirada seem to donate a lot of wedding gifts they never used. If you’re a college student or just moving into your first place, this is your zone.
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Books and Media
They have a massive wall of books. Most are organized by genre, which is a luxury in the thrift world. Hardcovers usually run a few bucks. If you're a reseller looking for rare first editions, you'll have to beat the regulars who show up right at 10:00 a.m.
The Clothing Struggle
Clothing is where the "Savers in La Mirada CA" experience gets polarizing. They removed the fitting rooms. Yeah, it’s a bummer. They did it a few years back citing "security concerns," which is retail-speak for "people were stealing or leaving messes."
You have to be a pro now.
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- Wear a tank top or leggings so you can try things on over your clothes in the aisle.
- Bring a measuring tape.
- Check the return policy: You usually have 14 days to exchange clothing or shoes for store credit, but you must keep the tags on and have your receipt.
The Donation Dilemma
If you’re heading there to drop stuff off, the Community Donation Center is on the side of the building. It’s usually pretty efficient. You pull up, someone grabs your bags, and they hand you a 20% off coupon.
One thing to keep in mind: they don't take everything. Gone are the days when you could drop off a 1990s tube TV or a stained mattress. They are picky because they have to pay to haul away the trash. If your stuff is actually junk, save the trip and go to the dump. But if it's "gently used," that coupon is the best way to offset the higher prices inside.
Is It Still Worth the Trip?
Kinda. It depends on what you're after.
If you’re looking for a specific brand of jeans in a specific size, you might spend two hours and leave empty-handed. But if you're looking for "vibes"—a funky lamp, a vintage oversized sweater, or some cheap frames for a gallery wall—it’s still one of the best spots in South East LA County.
The staff is generally pretty chill. Shoutout to the cashiers who have to deal with people arguing over a $2 price difference on a toaster. It’s a busy store, and it can get chaotic on weekends. If you hate crowds, go on a Thursday morning.
Your Action Plan for Savers in La Mirada CA
To make the most of your next visit, don't just wing it. Follow these steps to ensure you actually get a deal:
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- Join the Club First: Go to the Savers website or download the app and sign up for the Super Savers Club before you park. It saves you the awkward "let me type in my email" dance at the register.
- Donate for the Discount: Don't go empty-handed. Even a small bag of old clothes gets you that 20% off coupon. It’s the only way to make the pricing feel "fair" on higher-end items.
- The "Armpit" Test: Since there are no dressing rooms, hold the shoulder seams of a shirt up to your own. If the seams reach your armpits comfortably, it usually fits. It's a weird thrift-hack, but it works.
- Check the Electronics Station: Near the back, there’s usually a power strip. Always plug in electronics before you buy them. Just because it looks new doesn't mean the motor isn't fried.
- Watch the Tag Colors: Look at the signs at the entrance. If the color of the day is blue, ignore everything else if you're on a strict budget.
By shifting your expectations and using the loyalty system, you can still find those "white whale" items without feeling like you've been overcharged at Savers in La Mirada CA. Just remember to bring your own reusable bags—they charge for paper ones now.