Unless you are buying brand new clothes, it is important to know if thrift store clothes are clean before purchasing them. Thrift stores are a great place to find quality, affordable clothing but it can also be a minefield of germs, bacteria, and other problems. Fortunately, there are a few simple things that you can do to ensure that the thrift store clothes you bring home are clean and safe to wear.
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Check the Care Label
One of the easiest ways to tell if thrift store clothes are clean before you buy them is to check the care label. A care label will usually tell you how often the clothes were washed, if they were ever dry cleaned, and if the clothes were ever treated with any special cleaning products. If the care label indicates that the clothes have been washed more than once, then it’s likely that the clothes are clean.
Most thrift store items will have a tag or label that indicates the care instructions for the garment. It is important to check this carefully to make sure that the item can be washed and dried properly. If the care instructions cannot be followed, it is best to avoid the item as it may not be safe to wear.
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Look for Stains
When you’re examining thrift store clothes, be sure to give the item a thorough inspection when you first see it. Check for any signs of stains, dirt, or other signs of wear and tear. Even if the care label says the clothes were washed, it’s possible that some stains may have been missed. If there is anything that looks suspicious, leave it on the shelf. It is also important to note that some thrift stores may accept items that are not clean, so it is important to be extra vigilant when examining the items. If you are unsure, it is always better to err on the side of caution and pass on the item.
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Smell the Clothes
Another way to tell if thrift store clothes are clean is to give them a sniff. If the clothes have a musty odor, then it’s likely that the clothes have not been recently washed. If the clothes have a strong odor of detergent, then it’s likely that they have been recently washed. If the clothes have no odor at all, then it’s possible that they have been recently washed and dried, but not necessarily with detergent.
Clothing can often pick up odors from its previous owners, and it is important to make sure that you are not bringing home an item that has a musty smell or other unpleasant odor. If the item smells musty, it is likely that it has not been properly washed or stored and is not safe to wear.
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Check for Discoloration
Discoloration is another sign that the clothes may not be clean. If the colors of the clothes look faded or if there are any yellow or brown spots, then the clothes may not have been washed properly. In this case, it’s best to pass on the item.
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Feel the Fabric
If the fabric of the clothes feels greasy or slimy, then it’s likely that the clothes are not clean. Grease and sweat can build up on clothes over time and can be difficult to remove, even with washing. If the fabric feels greasy or slimy, then it’s best to avoid the item.
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Look for Damage
Clothes that have been worn and washed multiple times can become damaged. Look for signs of wear and tear, such as fraying seams, loose buttons, or holes. If the clothes have any visible signs of damage, then it’s best to move on and find a different item.
Also Read: Is It Okay to Buy Second Hand Clothes?
Thrift stores can be a great place to find stylish, affordable clothes. But it’s important to make sure that the clothes you’re buying are clean. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that the thrift store clothes you bring home are clean and safe to wear. Knowing that the item is clean and in good condition is an important part of being a responsible thrift store shopper.
You can also choose to buy second hand clothes without worry about quality at SwapUp. We professionally inspect and photograph every item in our store so you only receive high-quality, on-trend thrifted treasures that suit your style.
