Generally speaking, it’s wonderful to be wearing used or thrifted clothes. There are, however, certain things to consider to ensure your experience is as good as possible.
Used or thrifted clothes are basically what you’d call second-hand clothes – Garments owned by someone else between coming out of the factory and being purchased by you.
There are different types of used clothes, and the way they were intended to use initially may dictate their quality and price. For example, thrifted vintage garments will command much more value than regular, cheaper ones initially designed for daily use.
People tend to have polarizing opinions on used clothes concerning morals, cost, and quality. In recent years, however, a lot more people have taken to the idea of using second-hand garments, and it’s completely okay and, in fact, beneficial in many ways to go for them.
Let’s look at some factors you may want to consider before investing.
Benefits of buying second-hand clothes
Buying used clothes has quite a few benefits that you can enjoy. From price to morals and style, let’s look at some of the pros of thrifted clothes.
The first and super obvious benefit is that you’ll save a ton of money by thrifting compared to buying brand-new clothes. This is the essential factor as to why folks engage in this practice. There’s always a bargain around the corner!
Secondly, you will reduce your environmental impact by buying used clothes. Often, people throw away their garments just because they’re not “stylish” anymore, which is not ideal because they’re actually in decent shape.
This is why when you purchase these clothes, and they get utilized rather than in a dumpster – something that may be pretty hazardous for the environment.
A unique benefit of purchasing second-hand clothes is you may stumble across your new style! By pairing items that may not go along in a traditional sense, you might find a sweet spot and a great new outfit! Drip check.
Finally, it is straightforward to find used clothes compared to a few years ago. There are a ton of websites on the internet that specialize in stuff like this. If that’s not convenient, I don’t know what is!
Can you wear someone else’s swimsuit?
Yes, you can use someone else’s swimsuit, be it buying second-hand or borrowing it from someone.
Contrary to popular belief, you cannot contract sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) from wearing someone else’s swimsuits. It is a myth that has been propagated for years, but there is no evidence to back it up.
You need to take care of a couple of things, though. Firstly, you have to wash and disinfect the swimsuit properly. Since it is a garment usually in contact with the intimate parts of the body, you need to clean them before use.
Secondly, just like while purchasing any used clothes, you need to check the garment to see if it’s in good shape and has no tears, scuff marks, or stains.
Which second-hand clothes to avoid?
While it is entirely okay and even fashionable to buy used clothing, there are certain things you need to look out for and types of clothes to avoid.
Stay away from clothes that are stained or stink. This one’s pretty obvious. These issues indicate that the previous owner did not take care of these clothes. In turn, they’re not a sensible investment, especially considering the potential health hazards they may cause. Plus, they’re going to look bad and last very long.
You also want to steer clear of clothes that are going to require a ton of alterations. You may only sometimes be able to find used clothes suited to your body. When you’re done making the alterations to fit you better, it might not be worth your money. Plus, there’s no guarantee that the result will be satisfactory.
Finally, if you’re in the market for high-end second-hand clothes, verify their authenticity from an expert. This ensures their quality and durability. If there are reasons why you may not be able to authenticate these clothes, stay away from them.
How to clean second-hand clothes?
As a rule of thumb for your general wellness, it’s good to clean and disinfect any used clothes you may acquire adequately. It is easy, and you can use many items already present at home.
The first thing you must do is read the wash-care label, if any, as it will have instructions on how to properly care for that piece of clothing. Hand washing, machine washing, cold water, warm, etc., are a few variables to consider.
Secondly, you’ll need cleansing agents such as detergent, dedicated stain remover, and baking soda. Use the detergent to wash the clothes, in a machine or by hand, depending on what the wash-care label says.
After the wash, if the garment still has some stains, use the stain remover by rubbing it into the patch. Could you wait for 10 mins before washing it off? Finally, if there is any strong scent or odor to the clothes, soaking them overnight in a bucket of water mixed with a cup of baking soda will do the trick and get rid of it!
Final remarks
It is generally considered acceptable to wear used clothing. Many people buy and wear used clothing for various reasons, such as cost, environmental concerns, and a desire to support the circular economy.
Buying used clothing can be a more sustainable option, as it reduces the environmental impact of producing new clothing and can also help to extend the life of clothing items that would otherwise end up in landfills.
Additionally, many people find that buying used clothing is a cost-effective way to build a wardrobe, as it can be less expensive than buying new items.
However, it is essential to consider the hygiene and condition of used clothing before wearing it, as some items may have been worn or stored in a way that makes them less suitable for wear.
My name is Alex Higson and I am the founder of Magic Of Clothes. I have worked in the fashion industry for many years, and clothes and style are a huge part of my life.