To save big on baby and kids’ clothes, why not buy someone else’s gently used stuff? Or put some cash in your pocket by offloading the kids’ clothes you can no longer use? After all, babies and kids grow fast, often blowing through clothes before getting the chance to wear them out — or even at all. In addition to Craigslist, eBay and local consignment shops, check out these niche online resale sites for buying and selling used baby and kid clothes and more.
ThredUp: This online consignment shop promises to save you up to 80 percent on kids’ clothing sizes 12 months through size 20, compared to full retail. Items for boys and girls are categorized according to type, such as tops, bottoms, dresses and skirts, so things are easy to find. You can sort by brand, price and color, too. ThredUp is picky about the clothing it offers. All items for sale on the site must be “practically new,” which means they’re free of any defects and function just as they did when they were originally purchased.
- As a shopper: Create a profile and start shopping. Orders of $50 or more qualify for free shipping, and merchandise is shipped within one to two business days.
- As a seller: Selling items on ThredUp.com is a process. First, order a free ThredUp bag by adding it to your shopping cart. The bag holds roughly one laundry basket worth of clothes. When you receive the bag, fill it to the brim with kids’ clothes. Inspect each item you include carefully. ThredUp won’t accept clothing that shows any signs of wear. Check these details on quality standards. Clothing they reject for sale won’t be returned. Discount brands, such as clothing from Walmart, will be rejected as well. How much will selling one bag net you? It’s hard to say. ThredUp.com doesn’t guarantee a minimum. Recent bags sold for as low as $5 or much $33. Name brands such as Gymboree, Gap and Tea Collections in top condition command top dollar.
Storkbrokers: This site offers a variety of used baby gear and children’s items — from clothes and toys to car seats and cribs. “We monitor the site to see what types of products are being listed,” says Sterling Hawkins, the site’s cofounder. Unlike ThredUp, though, Storkbrokers doesn’t vet the items sellers list. If you have questions about a listed item, you’ll need to contact the seller before purchasing.
- As a seller: There’s no fee to list products or upload photos. You set the price, too. When your item sells, Storkbrokers keeps six percent of the sale price.
- As a shopper: Create a profile and start shopping. Items will be sent to your home, or, depending on your location, may be available for pick-up.
In general, when buying baby and kids’ products from other parents, safety should be your top concern. Items should either be new or look like new to you. Inspect them for loose buttons and appliques (choking hazards) and loose threads, which can wrap around a baby’s finger. Also, check the government’s recalls website to make sure you’re not buying or selling a recalled item.
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