Thrifted clothes have become quite popular in recent years. And for good reason – buying thrifted clothes can be a great way to save money, and you can find unique pieces that you can’t find at traditional stores.
However, not all thrifted clothes are created equal, and some are certainly more worn and torn than others. With that being said, let’s break down how to clean thrifted clothes and provide you with a few best practices for finding quality thrifted clothes.
Do thrift stores wash clothes?
Thrift stores are a great place to find affordable clothes, but you may be wondering if the clothes have been properly washed before they are put on the shelves. In most cases, thrift stores do not wash the clothes before selling them.
However, they typically sort the clothes by type (e.g., pants, shirts, etc.) and then inspect them for stains or other damage. Clothes that are in good condition are then put on the sales floor.
Keep in mind that thrift store prices are typically very low, so even if you do have to wash the clothes, you will still be saving money.
How to clean thrifted clothes in 5 simple steps
When you buy secondhand clothes, it’s important to give them a good cleaning before wearing them. Here are five tips to help you get the job done:
- Start by giving the garment a thorough inspection. If it’s stained or damaged in any way, it’s best to skip it. If you’re unsure about a stain, test it in an inconspicuous spot before proceeding.
- Pre-treat any areas that seem particularly dirty or stained. This will help to loosen up the dirt and make the eventual washing more effective.
- Check the care label before washing. This will ensure that you use the correct water temperature and cycle.
- Generally speaking, it’s best to wash thrifted clothes in cold water on a gentle cycle. However, if the fabric is particularly delicate, you may want to handwash it instead.
- Hang or lay clothing flat to dry whenever possible. This will help to prevent shrinkage and preserve the shape of the garment.
Pro Tip: If the clothing item is particularly valuable, use a gentle laundry detergent. There are some specifically made for vintage clothing, but you’re usually safe to use any detergent created for babies or those with allergies.
Related Content: How to clean thrifted shoes
Tips on how to find quality thrifted clothes
It’s no secret that thrifting can be a great way to save money on clothes. But it can be tough to find truly amazing thrifted items, especially if you’re on a budget. Here are a few tips to help you score some great pieces without breaking the bank.
- Find Speciality Stores: Look for local thrift stores that specialize in clothing. These stores usually have better quality items than general thrift stores. They pride themselves on hunting down unique and valued items.
- Take Your Time: Be patient and take your time when shopping. It may take some time to find that perfect piece, but it’ll be worth it in the end. And remember, pick through clothes slowly. If you go too fast, you might miss something special.
- Haggle With Price: Don’t be afraid to haggle. Many thrift store prices are negotiable, so it never hurts to ask for a lower price.
Related Content: What’s the best Facebook Marketplace alternative?
How to find thrifted designer clothing
When it comes to thrifting, there are a few things to keep in mind if you’re on the hunt for designer clothes.
First, take a close look at the materials and construction of the piece. Designer clothes are typically made from higher-quality fabrics and feature better stitching and construction than fast fashion items.
Second, check the labels carefully. Many designers put their logo or name on the inside of the garment, so if you see a designer label on the outside, it’s likely a fake.
Finally, do your reference. There are many online resources that can help you identify designer clothing brands. A little research before and during your hunt can help you find hidden treasures that could be worth much more than the thrift store price.