Overflow Thrift Store — Local services in Ames

May 9, 2024 we were passing through and stopped in.

Negatives: The parking lot is not well defined and we ended up in the wrong lot. The signs to find the entry door are not well marked so it took a bit to find a way in. The store is crowded and hard to move in, especially if you would be needing ambulatory assistance such as crutches, a walker, etc.

Positives: The staff was very friendly and helpful. The items were in good shape and well priced. There was at least one stand that displayed products from a local craftsman (love supporting the locals). Very impressed with the well displayed literature about their cause and why they do what they do ( I tend to spend more money when I know it goes back to the community) The store was well lit and well staffed.

Overall: Our experience once we made it in :)...

It is interesting reading these reviews. I, for one, am not impressed. I have donated things in the past with no problem. Last week I went to the new location under the impression that the Duff location had closed due to the new, bigger one opening. My bad. So I wait until a day - only Wednesday and Saturday - they accept items. Nope. There is a little box outside the building. When it is full, it is closed and nothing accepted. What a waste of my time. I read in one of the reviews that the merchandise does not move very fast. Maybe Overflow does not really want...

I think as a second hand store they should be priced better. I know they put money towards good causes but families are struggling in our community as well it's hard for them to pay $8 for a used kids Tshirt or more. I was taken back by the prices of not only the kids clothing that was given for free but almost everything. I made a point to give our goods here but I think ill switch back to goodwill as they sell to local families...