What to do with used clothes that Second Street can't buy? A comprehensive guide from using them at other stores to recycling companies
Have you ever tried to dispose of unwanted items at once when moving or decluttering, only to be troubled by Second Street's refusal to buy them? When an item that you thought would sell is turned down, you may be unsure of what to do next.
In this article, we will explain a wide range of information, from the reasons why items cannot be purchased, to other options for selling, disposal methods, and even services that can handle everything at once without any hassle. By the time you finish reading, you will know where to go for your unwanted items most smoothly, and you will be able to tackle decluttering with a positive attitude.
What are the main reasons why Second Street cannot buy your items?
There are several clear criteria for why Second Street will refuse to buy your item. It's not just because the item is old, but also because of various factors such as the condition of the item, brand power, relevance to trends, whether it comes with accessories, etc. Understanding these criteria will help you avoid wasting your time and make it easier to choose a more appropriate disposal method.
Before actually bringing it to the store, it is very important to understand the reasons why it is determined that the item cannot be purchased. Items that fall under the following categories are likely to be refused, so be sure to check in advance.
Main reasons for non-purchase
・The product is in poor condition (damaged, dirty, smelly, etc.)
- Old designs that are out of trend
・No-brand items or items that are difficult to resell
・If tags or accessories are missing
Relationship between purchase criteria and product condition
The condition of the item is the most important factor in determining whether or not to buy it at Second Street. If there is any noticeable dirt, tears, or damage such as moth holes or mold, the item will almost certainly not be purchased. Stains that do not come off with washing, yellowing due to long-term storage, and fading due to exposure to sunlight are also factors that significantly lower the evaluation.
In addition, deterioration due to odors and moisture cannot be ignored. Clothes that have soaked in cigarette odors, pet odors, or moldy odors will be difficult to resell, so there is a high chance that they will not be purchased. Improving the storage environment and doing a simple cleaning before bringing them in will be the key to the outcome.
The influence of trends and brand power
Fashion trends are constantly changing, so even if a design is 3 to 5 years old, its value will decrease if there is no demand for it. Items that are considered outdated in design or color may be refused for purchase, even if they are brand name items.
On the other hand, if it is a brand or item that is currently popular, it may be possible to pass the appraisal even if it is in poor condition, so it is wise to check the trends in advance. Items that are limited to a particular brand or collaboration product are likely to be subject to high prices.
The importance of accessories and appearance
For brand-name products, the appraisal depends on whether or not all accessories such as the guarantee card, storage bag, and outer box are present. If these are missing, the authenticity cannot be determined, and the purchase itself is often refused.
Appearance is also very important. Clothes that are out of shape or noticeably wrinkled, knitwear with lots of pilling, sticky bags, etc. will significantly reduce their market value, so be sure to tidy up their appearance before bringing them in.
Examples of unwanted items that are likely to be rejected
There are some trends regarding items that Second Street will not buy. If you know the specific examples for each category, it will be easier to sort your items before bringing them in, and you will not waste time and effort.
Even if an item appears clean at first glance, there are many cases where it will be rejected based on the appraisal standards. If any of the following apply to you, it is best to consider another way to dispose of it.
Clothing and fashion accessories
Particular care should be taken with no-brand and fast fashion clothing. Products with low prices and high circulation are unlikely to be in demand and are therefore unlikely to be purchased. Items that require hygiene considerations, such as underwear and socks, are also generally not eligible.
Furthermore, items that are only worn for one season (thin cut-and-sewn items and design-oriented outerwear) tend to be avoided due to the high risk of resale. When bringing in items, be sure to check whether the brand tags and washing instructions are still attached.
Shoes and bags that are showing obvious signs of wear
Shoes and bags are especially prone to showing signs of wear. If the soles are worn down, the heels are cracked, or the zippers or metal parts are broken, it will be difficult to buy them. Even if they look clean, if the inside is sticky or smelly, they are often deemed unsellable.
Also, leather products are prone to cracking and discoloration, so the appraisal value can vary greatly depending on how well they've been stored, so be careful. Check that the handles and corners are not worn and that there is no lingering odor before bringing them in.
Large furniture and appliances
Second Street mainly deals with clothing and small items. Therefore, in most cases, large furniture and old home appliances are not eligible for purchase. In particular, home appliances that are more than five years old tend to be refused because they often do not meet the safety standards for reuse.
In addition, it is more efficient to ask a professional collection company to take care of furniture, as it takes time and effort to disassemble and remove it. Although disposal fees may be incurred, it is a reasonable option when you consider the time and effort involved.
No-brand and over-distributed items
Mass-produced no-brand products, promotional items, and lucky bag contents are often so widely distributed on the market that they are almost worthless. Fast fashion brands such as GU and Shimamura also have very low resale prices, so they often refuse to buy from you in order to avoid inventory risk.
In addition, original brand products that are only available through mail order are unlikely to be valued if they are not well known, and even if they are in perfect condition, they may not be purchased, so be careful. In some cases, it may be better to consider flexible options such as transfer or donation rather than focusing on selling.
Comparing sales and disposal methods other than Second Street
Even if an item is not purchased by Second Street, it may still be worth something if you use other methods. The best method depends on whether you want to sell it or get rid of it smoothly. Here we will compare the most common methods and explain the features of each.
Selling on your own using a flea market app
The advantage of using flea market apps such as Mercari and Rakuma is that you can set your own price, expanding the possibility of selling. Even if the item is in poor condition, you can list it as a "damaged item," and you may be able to sell an item that was rejected at a recycle shop.
However, a major disadvantage is that it takes time and effort from listing to shipping and responding to buyers. You also need to negotiate and deal with any problems yourself, so it is not suitable for busy people.
Re-evaluate at another thrift store
Even if an item is rejected at Second Street, it may be possible for it to be purchased at another second-hand shop. Since each store has different purchasing standards and specialty areas, it is not advisable to give up after just one appraisal. In particular, locally based shops and stores that specialize in specific brands may reevaluate the item based on different value standards than Second Street.
Recently, many stores have introduced LINE and online appraisal services, and convenient services that allow you to request an appraisal without bringing the item in are becoming more common. By requesting quotes from multiple stores at the same time and choosing the one with the best conditions, you can also increase the purchase price.
Contributing to society through donations and transfers
If you feel that you can't or don't want to sell your items, consider donating or giving them away. Clothes and household goods in good condition can be used by NPOs, child support groups, welfare facilities, etc. In particular, organizations that provide overseas support may have demand for clothes that are difficult to resell in Japan.
Another effective way is to use social media or local bulletin boards to give away your items to friends and acquaintances. If you can find someone who will take them for free, you won't have to pay disposal fees and there's no waste in terms of reuse. It's a way to give things a second life, and it also helps you sort out your feelings.
Utilize local bulky waste and resource collection services
For items that are difficult to reuse or sell, it is safe and reliable to use the local government's bulky waste collection and resource recovery services. Some areas have free collection days or can be collected by prior reservation, so it is a good idea to check the details on the official website.
In particular, for large furniture, old appliances, used bedding, etc., it is recommended to use the government's disposal service, as it is cheaper and the disposal will be done properly. However, once you put it out, you cannot take it back, so you should make a careful decision about what to dispose of.
How to use a waste collection service for smooth disposal
"I can't sell it," "I can't find someone to give it to," "It's too much trouble to throw it away." In times like these, you can rely on junk removal services. Recently, a variety of services have appeared, including companies that can respond on the same day and companies that will buy and collect in one go. This is a very convenient method for people who don't have much time or who want to get rid of a large amount of junk all at once.
Here we will introduce in detail the points you should know when using a junk removal service and tips for choosing one.
The benefits of same-day service
When you have to move suddenly or your move-out date is approaching, it is very reliable to have a junk removal company that can respond on the same day. There are also an increasing number of companies that will visit and collect your junk within a few hours of application, so it is the most efficient option when you are short on time.
The features of these services include:
Key benefits of same-day service
・We can visit and collect your items within a few hours of application.
・Many companies are available on weekends and holidays
・No need to separate, can be picked up as is
・We will take care of even the heaviest items, so you don't have to worry about it.
The biggest appeal of same-day junk removal services is that you can request help with peace of mind even when you are limited in time or plagued by a large amount of unwanted items.
Cost comparison and selection points
When choosing a junk removal service, it is important to find a balance between price and service content. Even if the basic fee is low, it may end up being expensive when travel expenses and labor costs are added, so be sure to check the breakdown of the estimate carefully.
By getting quotes from multiple companies, you can avoid unreasonably high charges and choose the company with the best cost performance. Furthermore, if you choose a company that offers a purchase service, you can use the proceeds from the sale to cover expenses, reducing your actual payment burden.
Points to check
・Basic fee, travel expenses, disposal fees
・Conditions for cancellation fees and additional charges
・Coverage area and range of collectable items
・Whether or not we can purchase your item and how we can assess it
Cases where purchase and disposal can be requested at the same time
In recent years, the number of "simultaneous purchase and collection services" has been increasing. Items in good condition are appraised on the spot and purchased for cash, while the remaining items are collected as is, reducing both time and effort.
These services may also include arranging for cardboard boxes for packing and removal staff, making them ideal for use when moving or when you are doing a major cleaning. The service content, such as the items covered and whether or not there is a minimum fee, varies depending on the company, so it is essential to check in advance.
Checklist to be done before disposal
To dispose of unwanted items smoothly, it is better to make some preparations to reduce mistakes. If you neglect to check and organize in advance, it may lead to trouble such as not being able to buy the items or additional charges being incurred, so be sure to keep in mind the points introduced here.
In particular, the appraisal value of brand-name items and large amounts of clothing can vary greatly depending on their condition and whether or not they come with accessories. By checking the following points before collection or bringing in the items, you can significantly increase the efficiency of disposal.
Points to check before disposal
・Check the condition of the item: Check for dirt, tears, odors, etc. If a simple wash or dry clean can improve the condition, take action.
- Check that all accessories are included: Are all accessories such as tags, guarantee cards, and boxes included?
- Check in advance whether the store you're bringing the item to handles it: Some stores don't carry some items, so be sure to check by phone or online.
- Compare appraisal prices from multiple stores: Appraisal prices vary from store to store, so don't just decide from one store; get multiple quotes.
With just a little preparation, you can prevent unnecessary trouble and losses. Be sure to prepare thoroughly in advance, especially if you are aiming for a high appraisal or disposing of a large amount of items.
Check the item's status
Before you bring your unwanted items in for an appraisal, first check their condition carefully. If they are dirty or damaged, their value will drop significantly and they may not be purchased. If it is clothing, washing and ironing it, and if it is shoes or bags, simply wiping them down will improve their impression.
In particular, odors (from cigarettes or mold), pilling, stains, etc. are major causes of negative evaluations. If you want to sell for as much as possible or to complete the purchase, you should improve these points.
Please contact the store in advance to check if it is available.
Even if you bring in your items, if the store does not handle them, it will be a waste of time and effort. Since the items and standards that are purchased vary by store, it is important to check in advance.
Recently, many stores offer simple appraisals via LINE appraisal or by sending photos by email, so it is recommended to use this before visiting the store. Since you do not have to bring in items that are not eligible for appraisal, you can dispose of them efficiently.
Compare the valuation with other stores
Even for the same item, the appraisal value can vary greatly depending on the dealer. The trick to selling at a high price is to get appraisals from multiple stores, rather than just one. It takes some effort, but it can make a difference of hundreds to thousands of yen.
By using online appraisal and bulk quote services, you can easily understand and compare multiple purchase prices without visiting the store. Make a comprehensive decision based not only on the price, but also on the service content and the courtesy of the staff.
We provide a wide range of services, from collecting and purchasing used clothing to recycling.
We offer a flexible service that can handle items that cannot be purchased at Second Street, etc. We provide optimal services based on the know-how we have cultivated in the second-hand clothing industry.
Introducing our corporate services
OLD FLIP promotes the effective use of used clothing and sustainable initiatives through partnerships with companies. We provide a service for corporations that purchases the remaining stock of apparel manufacturers and second-hand clothing stores in bulk and redistributes the items in a valuable form.
Our strength is not just to dispose of inventory, but to contribute to society as part of our SDGs activities. Through the reuse of old clothes, we aim to build a partnership that contributes to environmental friendliness and the creation of a sustainable fashion culture.
We also actively undertake joint projects and launch new businesses with partner companies, seeking to create new value by leveraging each other's technologies and know-how.
We are always looking forward to hearing from companies that support this initiative to breathe new life into old clothes. Please feel free to contact us using the email form here for business partnerships or consultations.
A remake service that breathes new life into old clothes by dyeing them black
The fabric is still strong, but the color is fading. Your favorite clothes have changed color. Do you have old clothes like that?
Even for items that are difficult to purchase, we offer a service that transforms them into valuable items through "black dye remake."
In collaboration with Kyoto Montsuki Co., Ltd., a long-established company in Kyoto, these items are dyed a deep black to create attractive, one-of-a-kind items. For a more sustainable society, we offer the option of re-dyeing your favorite clothes through black dyeing so that you can treasure them forever.
Dirty old clothes can be reused with cleaning services
Even if your clothes are in poor condition and difficult to use, we can restore them to a reusable state through our unique cleaning service.
Even clothing with strong stains, odors, or mold can be restored to a usable condition through specialized processing using highly skilled techniques.
We can also wash stuffed toys, kimonos, and dresses. You can also leave high-end clothing and leather items such as fur, which are said to be difficult to clean, to us. We will not waste your precious clothing, but will pass it on to the next stage in a sustainable way.
Proposal for setting up used clothing collection boxes for items that are difficult to purchase
Even if the items are difficult to collect, they can be collected in used clothing collection boxes that have been set up as a way to contribute to the local community. Even damaged or heavily soiled clothing can be reused as a resource, so this is gaining attention as an option to avoid throwing away clothing.
We can also set up the machines in homes, facilities, and stores, and can also be used for local collection activities. We are also receiving more inquiries from organizations that wish to participate in SDGs and eco-activities, which will also contribute to society through collection.
We are particularly focusing on collecting used clothing from Uniqlo and GU, which are difficult to put a price on.
summary
Even if you have old clothes or unwanted items that Second Street cannot buy, there are plenty of options for disposal and reuse. By choosing the method that suits your situation, such as flea market apps, other recycle shops, donations, and collection services, you can clean up smoothly and efficiently.
In particular, by carefully preparing before disposal, such as checking the condition and comparing appraisal sites, you can increase the purchase success rate and minimize costs and hassle. Also, by using a company like ours that handles both purchase and collection at the same time, you can solve the troublesome process all at once.
Disposing of unwanted items is not just about "throwing them away," but also about the possibility of "turning them into something valuable for someone else." We hope that this article will help you make a decision that you will not regret.