How To Thrift

Quality

Check the Tags:

  • How do you take care of the item?

  • Are you willing to dryclean or handwash if necessary?

Examine the Stitching:

  • Is it small? Small stitching is generally more durable

  • Are the hem and seams thoroughly sewn down?

  • Are there loose hanging threads?

Damage

Easy Fixes may Include:

  • Stains

  • Small Tears

  • Tears along a Seam

  • Missing Buttons

  • Pilling

Harder Fixes may Include:

  • Moldy Smells

  • Broken Zippers

  • Major Tears

  • Dead Elastic

  • Flaking Material

Materials

Natural (Easiest to Recycle):

  • Cotton

  • Linen

  • Wool

  • Silk

  • Cashmere

  • Fur

  • Leather

Semi-Natural (Complicated Recycling Process):

  • Viscose

  • Rayon

  • Modal

Synthetic (Non-Biodegradable):

  • Polyester

  • Spandex

  • Elastane

  • Nylon

  • Acrylic

  • Acetate

  • Polyurethane (PU)