By: Consumer Reports
By: Consumer Reports
If you’ve ever wandered through a flea market, you’ve already entered the second-hand market.
The used clothing market alone could more than double to 2025, growing at a rate of 11 times faster than the general apparel retail sector, according to second-hand fashion retail chain ThredUp.
New online options like Depop and Tradesy have joined to the well-known Facebook Marketplace and eBay. And traditional retailers have also gotten into the game with companies like Macy’s and Patagonia offering used items, and others like Apple and KitchenAid selling returned products that they recondition to function like new.
“In the past, buying second-hand items was disparaged as something that people did when they didn’t have the money to buy new products, but now it’s considered fashionable,” says Elizabeth Basa, owner of Family Tree Resale, a Chicago-based store that also offers thrift items online. It’s also good for the planet, not to mention your wallet. You can save around 80% if you buy used items, she says. Try these smart shopping tips:
Think “local” for large items. Basa suggests searching for furniture and accessories at thrift stores and sites like Facebook Marketplace so you don’t have to pay for shipping.
Shop from sites that verify authenticity. Looking for designer clothes? Sites like Poshmark and The RealReal verify the authenticity of items, so you can be sure that you are not buying a fake.
See seller’s opinions and policies. For high-end purchases, buy only from online sellers who have a substantial history of positive feedback and reviews. And check their return policies; some are very strict.
It is still good practice to limit your time in public places, where you are more likely to be exposed to COVID – 19. Before heading to a store:
Check inventory online
With many retailers, you can search on line to see if an item is available at your local store. If a store doesn’t offer this option, call ahead to inquire. If you need help once you’re there, make an appointment to avoid waiting.
Download the retailer’s app
For example, the Target app can direct you to the correct aisle to find a product in store. The Walmart app lets you scan items while you’re shopping and then pay for them yourself, avoiding potentially long lines at the cash registers.
Editor’s Note: This article also appeared in the October issue of 2021 from Consumer Reports magazine.
Consumer Reports is an independent, nonprofit organization that works side by side with consumers to create a fairer, safer, and healthier world. CR does not endorse products or services, and does not accept advertising. Copyright © 2021, Consumer Reports, Inc.
Consumer Reports has no financial relationship with the advertisers on this site. Consumer Reports is an independent nonprofit organization that works with consumers to create a just, safe, and healthy world. CR does not endorse products or services and does not accept advertising. Copyright © 2021, Consumer Reports, Inc.