Garage sales offer you the chance to find some real treasures. A discriminating eye goes a long way toward separating the junk from the show piece (and don't forget to bring cash).

You never know how far your outing will take you, so make sure you're prepared. Pack water and a snack and be sure to wear comfortable shoes.

When you set out on a garage outing, be sure to take a tape measure, paint and fabric samples as well as any measurements that are relevant. That way, you will be able to tell if a potential find will really fit into that space in your home you've picked out for it.

Make sure you do some research before venturing out into the garage sale world. Try checking eBay and other similar Internet sites to get an idea about prices before you buy.

Solid wood furniture can often be salvaged with a little elbow grease and the right cleaning products. Wood veneer and pressed wood furnishings are often beyond repair.

Also known as eclectic elegance, shabby chic makes use of just the sort of treasures you might find at a garage sale. The bumps and scrapes don't matter-- just clean it up and it's shabby chic.

Be sure to check that any appliance, large or small, works before buying. Stick with brand names and go online to check for any recalls.

Be creative. Sometimes a broken lamp that looks good can be fixed or a missing piece from a small appliance can be replaced.

Check eBay.com for guidelines for cleaning used toys. They recommend using a dishwasher where possible, since dishwasher temperatures of 140 degrees Fahrenheit (60 degrees Celsius) should kill any germs.

Leave used stuffed animals in the freezer overnight to kill dust mites and then wash with lots of detergent in your washer's gentle cycle.