Charity shops offer a wonderful maze to explore - with customers frequently snapping up bargain finds at remarkably affordable prices. And when the proceeds from your purchases go towards a worthy cause? There's simply nothing more gratifying than that feeling.

Stories of charity shop devotees unearthing rare treasures regularly go viral online (and quite rightly so) and as a committed charity shop visitor myself, I can confirm it feels like the ultimate victory when you stumble upon a cheaply priced gem.

It's also perfectly natural to feel overwhelmed in charity shops when faced with the sheer volume of options across the rails and displays.

So, if you're someone who loves visiting these fantastic shopping havens but isn't entirely sure what to look for or what constitutes a worthwhile find, fear not - we've put together a list of items that represent guaranteed bargains when discovered in good condition at a charity shop, reports Wales Online.

1. Glassware

You may be surprised by the sheer volume of high-quality glassware available in charity shops. Whisky decanters, vases, glasses and carafes - charity shops are consistently stocked with an impressive array of glassware options at a fraction of their original retail price.

Those hunting for premium glassware should gauge the weight of pieces by hand. The heavier the item, the better its quality. Holding glassware up to the light also helps to identify any cloudiness or imperfections.

Bear in mind, however, that imperfections (particularly air bubbles) can sometimes indicate you've stumbled upon a genuine antique piece.

For those seeking crystal glassware, gently tap the item with a fingernail; if it produces the distinctive bell-like chime, you could well be onto something rather special. Crystal glassware also creates a rainbow prism effect when held up to the light, so keep your eyes peeled.

2. Designer clothing

Designer clothing is a wonderful find in charity shops, with shoppers regularly lucky enough to track down rare pieces at remarkably low prices.

There are likely far more designer garments hidden amongst the clothing rails than you might expect, so make sure you thoroughly browse the racks on your next charity shop visit.

Expert tips include keeping a keen eye out for designer logos and labels - which can easily be verified via Google - and visiting charity shops in affluent areas, as these tend to have a considerably higher chance of receiving designer donations.

3. Leather Boots

Charity shops regularly carry leather goods in need of a new home. Leather is well known for its durability and toughness, making such items particularly common donations.

Leather boots, in particular, rank amongst the finest hidden gems discovered in charity shops. For those worried about the hygiene of buying pre-owned footwear, professional cleaning or deodorising services are readily accessible, and you'll find it stays significantly more affordable than purchasing new.

Buying leather items second-hand from charity shops also offers a more ethical option, contributing to the reduction of animal suffering and the energy usage linked to fashion and trends.

4. Books

While an obvious and beloved charity shop staple, we'd be remiss not to feature books on this list. In today's climate, books command hefty prices, yet in charity shops they're obtainable for a fraction of the expense.

Often, a comprehensive browse through the book section in charity shops will reveal an obscure or peculiar title you might not have otherwise contemplated.

These frequently turn out to be the most satisfying finds. Tackle book hunting in charity shops with an open mind, and we promise you'll find it difficult to leave without purchasing at least one volume.

5. Picture frames

Picture frames are arguably the most overlooked gems in charity shops - and that's where the opportunity lies. While brand new picture frames are easily obtainable online at wallet-friendly prices, they often lack durability and tend to showcase uninspiring designs.

Charity shops, by contrast, tend to stock a fascinating array of unique picture frames in great condition - perfect for injecting some character into your home.

6. Board games

Board games these days carry quite a substantial price tag, with many titles costing upwards of £20, making charity shops a brilliant place to find your next source of family fun.

Make sure to check the contents of the box and verify that all pieces are included - it can be tremendously frustrating to purchase a board game only to discover later that vital components are missing.

7. Maternity clothes and baby gear

Baby equipment and maternity clothing come at considerable expense (as any parent will attest) and sometimes buying brand-new items that won't be needed beyond a short period simply isn't sensible.

This is where charity shops prove their worth - they regularly stock generous amounts of maternity wear and baby equipment waiting to find new homes. While standard charity shops carry these items, there are also baby-specific outlets dotted across the country.

8. Vinyl records

Amongst the greatest finds in charity shops are vinyl records - long-forgotten albums that hold cherished memories across different generations.

Purchasing them second-hand represents a far more environmentally responsible decision and can lead to considerable savings for buyers.

It goes without saying that charity shops frequently feature an impressive selection, and with some fortune, you could discover a genuinely rare record tucked away on their shelves. Make certain to inspect for any perpendicular scratches or warping, as these may affect the sound quality.