Tried & Loved: My Experience with ThredUP, the Online Thrift Store
As a budget-conscious mom always on the hunt for great deals and sustainable choices, I’m excited to share my experience with ThredUP, an online thrift store where I buy and sell pre-owned items. Actually these days I sell more than I buy. My body has changed after the accident and I’m still trying to get comfortable in my skin (a story for another day). Before the accident, ThredUP was my go-to when looking for clothes for summer vacation or work conferences. I still love looking at their clothes because they are always unique. These days I’m using ThredUP to declutter my closet without the stress. In this blog post, I’ll take you through the pros, cons, shopping tips, and overall verdict on whether ThredUP lives up to the hype. But you probably guessed already that the answer is YES! but keep reading to find out why.
Full disclosure: This post is not sponsored however, clicking on ThredUp links on this page will give you 45% off + free shipping on your first order. Lastly, I may receive a small referral fee at no additional cost to you on qualifying purchases. It’s a great way to support my blog and put extra clothes in my closet. Thank you!
What is ThredUP?
ThredUP proclaims itself as the largest online consignment and thrift store. It offers clothing, shoes, and accessories for women and children, all of which are second-hand items. The site claims to save consumers up to 90% off estimated retail prices, making it an enticing option for budget-savvy shoppers like us.
First Impressions
Navigating ThredUP‘s website was a breeze. The interface is user-friendly and well-organized, making it easy to search for specific items or browse through categories. The filters are incredibly detailed, allowing you to narrow down by size, brand, color, condition, and even price range, which is crucial for finding exactly what you need.
The Pros
Great Selection
ThredUP offers a vast range of brands from high-end to budget-friendly, covering various styles and sizes. I was impressed by the quality and variety available, making it a versatile option for different tastes and needs.
Quality of Items
Each item listed on ThredUP goes through a rigorous quality inspection process. Most of the items I received were in excellent condition, some even with original tags. It’s reassuring to know that you’re receiving items that have been carefully checked.
Eco-Friendly Shopping
Buying second-hand is a fantastic way to reduce your carbon footprint. ThredUP uses recyclable packaging and gives clothes a second life, which supports a more sustainable fashion cycle.
Easy Returns
Understanding that buying second-hand can be hit or miss, ThredUP offers a straightforward return policy. I found this aspect particularly helpful when a couple of items didn’t fit as expected.
The Cons
Shipping Costs and Times
Depending on how much you spend or where you live, shipping costs can add up, which might offset some of the savings. Additionally, shipping times can be longer than expected, which is something to keep in mind if you need items quickly.
Overwhelming Inventory
With thousands of items listed, it can sometimes feel overwhelming to sift through the inventory. However, using the filters effectively can help manage this.
Variable Sizing
Since the clothing comes from various brands, sizing can be inconsistent. I recommend knowing your measurements and checking size charts where available to mitigate this issue.
Shopping Tips
Use the Filters Wisely
Make full use of ThredUP’s detailed filters to streamline your shopping experience. It saves time and helps you find what you’re looking for more efficiently.
Check Often for New Arrivals
Inventory updates frequently, so if you don’t find what you want, keep checking back. The good stuff can go quickly!
Set Up Alerts for Favorite Brands
You can set up alerts for specific items or brands you are interested in. This feature ensures you get notified when something matching your preferences gets listed.
Thrift Shop Verdict
My overall experience with ThredUP has been overwhelmingly positive. It offers an affordable way to shop for high-quality, fashionable clothing while being environmentally conscious. While there are some drawbacks, such as variable sizing and shipping costs, the benefits far outweigh these issues. ThredUP has proven to be a fantastic resource for expanding our family’s wardrobe without breaking the bank.
For moms looking to stretch their clothing budget, I highly recommend giving ThredUP a try. It’s a guilt-free way to indulge your shopping habits and support sustainable fashion practices simultaneously. Happy thrifting!
Decluttering Your Closet with ThredUP: A Tried & Loved Process
Beyond just shopping, ThredUP offers a fantastic service for those looking to declutter their closets. If you’re like me, you probably have clothes that haven’t seen the light of day for months or even years. ThredUP provides an easy and eco-friendly way to clear out these items, and potentially earn a little back in the process. Here’s a detailed look at how you can use ThredUP to declutter your wardrobe:
Step 1: Ordering the Clean Out Kit
First, you’ll need to order a Clean Out Kit from ThredUP. This is essentially a large bag with a prepaid shipping label attached. You can choose between two options: a donation bag or a consignment bag. The donation bag allows you to send your clothes to ThredUP without expecting any payment, perfect if you just want to declutter quickly. The consignment bag is for those who want to earn some money from their high-quality items.
Step 2: Sorting Your Clothes
Before filling your Clean Out Bag, it’s important to sort through your items carefully. ThredUP only accepts clothing that is in excellent condition. This means no signs of wear such as stains, holes, or fading. They also prefer items from recognized brands, as these tend to sell better on their platform. Take the time to try on items, assess what fits, what doesn’t, and what aligns with your current lifestyle needs.
Step 3: Packing the Bag
Once you’ve decided which items to part with, pack them neatly into the Clean Out Bag. Although ThredUP inspects each item, packing them carefully can help ensure that they arrive in good condition, increasing the likelihood that they will be accepted.
Step 4: Sending It Off
Seal the bag and drop it off at a USPS or FedEx location, or arrange for a pickup, depending on your preference. The prepaid label makes this process hassle-free. ThredUP will notify you once they receive your bag.
Step 5: Processing Your Items
After your bag arrives at ThredUP, their team will inspect each item. This process can take a few weeks depending on their current volume. Each item is evaluated to ensure it meets ThredUP’s quality standards. You can check the status of your items through your online account.
Step 6: Earning from Your Clothes
For items that ThredUP accepts for resale, you’ll earn a portion of the selling price. The amount you earn depends on the original price of the item, its brand, and its condition. ThredUP provides a payout estimator tool on its website, which can give you a general idea of what to expect. Payouts can be received via PayPal, a shopping credit, or as a donation to a charity of your choice.
Step 7: Final Steps
For items that are not accepted, you can choose to have them recycled or returned to you for a fee. ThredUP partners with textile recycling companies to ensure that clothes are handled in an eco-friendly manner.
Why It Works for Me
Using ThredUP‘s Clean Out service has helped me keep my home decluttered and my wardrobe manageable and relevant to my current lifestyle. It feels good to know that the clothes I no longer need are either finding a new home or being responsibly recycled. Plus, earning a little extra money or shopping credit doesn’t hurt either!
Final Thoughts
ThredUP’s declutter service is an excellent solution for budget moms who want to manage their clothing sustainably. It simplifies the process of clearing out your wardrobe, offers potential financial benefits, and supports eco-friendly practices. If you’re looking to declutter, consider giving ThredUP a try. It’s a win-win for your home and the environment!
