How to Prep Your Secondhand Items for Resale

Let’s cut to the chase: ensuring your items are in top-notch condition can make a significant difference in their resale value. You might be thinking, “I’m no pro at preparing items for resale,” but that’s completely fine because, by the end of this, you’ll be able to do it in your sleep!

The Dreaded Mountain

We’ve all done it: a closet cleanout. And now we’re faced with a ginormous pile of clothes we used to love but have no idea what to do with. Quick piece of advice: that mountain of clothes is basically a goldmine! So, dread no more. While it may not make you rich, it never hurts to make a little extra cash by selling your pre-loved pieces to a place like Clothes Mentor.

Before You Sell

We are excited to share some clothing maintenance tips that will help you prepare your gently used clothing and accessories for a new home while maximizing your earnings.

  • This is a shakedown. That’s right–empty your pockets and flip your purses! It’s important to clear out any old receipts and spare change that might be left behind.
  • Find your magnifying glass. Take a close look at each item. Replace missing buttons, mend small tears, and ensure all zippers are functional. Basic repairs can elevate the value of your pieces.
  • Bust out the bubbles. When cleaning secondhand clothes, it’s important to launder or dry clean your items according to their care labels. This removes odors and stains, ensuring they're fresh and ready to wear for the next owner.

It’s All in the Details

Preparing your gently used clothing and accessories for resale doesn’t have to be daunting. It’s quite a simple process once you know what to look for. However, if you're someone who likes to go above and beyond, we've got just the thing for you: an in-depth guide to help you prep your items. Here are some of the things we cover in our Thrifted Clothes 101 Guide:

  • Fabric care for preloved garments
  • Cleaning hacks for different fabrics
  • Disinfection techniques galore
  • Stain removal for secondhand clothes

    By following these tips and taking a little time to clean, repair, and present your pieces nicely, you can translate that effort into higher resale prices and a quicker turnaround at the store. Plus, you'll experience the satisfaction of letting us find a new owner who will cherish them just as much as you did. Now, all that’s left is a simple checklist:

    • Conquer the mountain
    • Love on your items one last time
    • Head out to a Clothes Mentor location near you
    • Ka-ching! What’s that? Just some extra cash in your pocket!

      We here at Clothes Mentor can't wait to see what goodies you bring us, especially now that you're a pro at preparing items for resale. See you soon!

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