EUGENE, Ore. -- The back-to-school budget can add up fast with new school supplies and clothes, but there are ways to save some money, while also helping the environment.

Shopping at secondhand stores like Goodwill not only saves shoppers money, but it also keeps old clothes out of landfills.

"It takes an average of 1,800 gallons of water to make the cotton for one pair of jeans and an average of 400 gallons of water to make a T-shirt,” said Goodwill spokesperson Libby Steffen-Schafermeyer. “So if you want to really reduce your impact on the environment, shopping thrift -- shopping Goodwill -- is a great way to do that.”

When buying secondhand, remember to give yourself plenty of time to go through the racks. Make sure to try things on and check items for stains, tears and missing buttons. You can also ask about discount days.

Another tip is planning to go back a couple of times, as merchandise changes frequently.