Shopping for clothes can feel expensive. Selling old clothes can feel like work. That is where thredUP steps in. It promises an easier way to buy and sell secondhand fashion online. But is it really worth your time and money? Let’s break it down in a simple and fun way.
TLDR: thredUP is an online thrift store where you can buy and sell secondhand clothes. It offers big discounts on brands, but seller payouts can be low depending on the item. Buyers often score great deals, while sellers trade convenience for smaller profits. If you want easy and eco-friendly fashion, thredUP is often worth trying.
What Is thredUP?
thredUP is one of the largest online resale platforms for clothing. Think of it as a giant digital thrift store. Instead of browsing crowded racks, you scroll on your phone or laptop.
The company launched in 2009. Since then, it has processed millions of secondhand items. Its goal is simple: make fashion more sustainable and affordable.
You can:
- Buy gently used clothes at a discount
- Sell clothes you no longer wear
- Clean out your closet without holding a yard sale
How thredUP Works for Buyers
If you love deals, this part is for you.
1. Browse and Search
You can filter by brand, size, color, price, or condition. Looking for a black Zara dress under $25? Easy. Need kids’ shoes in size 3? Done.
2. Check Item Condition
Each item is graded. Common tags include:
- New with tags
- Like new
- Gently used
Photos are included. Descriptions note flaws if there are any.
3. Add to Cart
You shop like any other online store. Shipping fees apply. Orders over a certain amount may qualify for free shipping.
4. Returns
Returns are allowed on many items. But there may be restocking fees. Always check the item’s return policy before buying.
Why Buyers Like thredUP
- Huge discounts. Sometimes up to 90% off retail.
- Access to designer brands for less.
- Sustainable shopping.
- Easy filtering system.
Downsides for Buyers
- You cannot try items on first.
- Sizing can vary by brand.
- Popular items sell fast.
If you are patient, you can find amazing deals. Many shoppers treat it like a treasure hunt.
How thredUP Works for Sellers
Selling on thredUP is very different from selling on apps like Poshmark or eBay.
You do not photograph items. You do not write descriptions. You do not ship items one by one.
Instead, you order a Clean Out Kit.
Step 1: Order a Clean Out Kit
thredUP sends you a bag or shipping label. Sometimes there is a small fee. Policies change, so always check the latest details.
Step 2: Fill the Bag
You add gently used clothes. Popular brands and trendy styles do best.
Step 3: Send It Back
Ship it to thredUP. They inspect the items.
Step 4: Get Paid
If your items are accepted, they are listed on the site. You earn a percentage when they sell.
If items do not sell, they may:
- Be discounted heavily
- Be returned to you (for a fee)
- Be responsibly recycled
Payout Structure
Payout depends on:
- Brand
- Condition
- Selling price
Lower-priced items earn smaller percentages. Higher-end brands earn more.
This means you might earn:
- $2 to $10 for mall brands
- More for designer labels
Some sellers love the simplicity. Others feel payouts are too low.
thredUP Pricing Explained
Let’s talk money.
For Buyers
- Item price varies
- Shipping fee added
- Optional return assurance (in some cases)
Prices are usually far below retail. A $100 dress might be $25.
For Sellers
- Possible Clean Out Kit fee
- Optional return shipping fee for unsold items
- Payout percentage taken from final sale price
The biggest “cost” for sellers is the commission structure. You trade higher profits for convenience.
Is thredUP Worth It for Buyers?
In many cases, yes.
If you:
- Love bargains
- Enjoy browsing
- Want eco-friendly fashion
- Wear common sizes
You will likely enjoy it.
However, if you:
- Need exact fit guarantees
- Dislike waiting for shipping
- Want instant returns without fees
You may prefer in-store shopping.
Pro tip: Always check measurements and fabric details. Some great deals disappear fast. Add favorites to your cart quickly.
Is thredUP Worth It for Sellers?
This depends on your goal.
It Is Worth It If:
- You want zero hassle
- You value convenience over profit
- You are already planning to donate clothes
It May Not Be Worth It If:
- You want maximum payout
- You have lots of high-demand items
- You are willing to list and ship items yourself
Selling directly on apps like Poshmark often earns more money. But it takes more effort. Photos. Descriptions. Customer messages. Shipping trips.
thredUP removes all of that. You send one bag. You wait.
Sustainability and Environmental Impact
This is where thredUP really shines.
Fast fashion creates massive waste. Millions of garments end up in landfills.
Buying secondhand:
- Reduces waste
- Saves water
- Cuts carbon emissions
thredUP also publishes resale reports. These show how secondhand shopping helps the planet.
If sustainability matters to you, that adds extra value beyond money.
Tips to Get the Most Value
For Buyers
- Use filters carefully
- Search by brand name
- Check “New with tags” section
- Look for seasonal sales
- Read condition notes
For Sellers
- Send in popular brands
- Wash and fold items neatly
- Check current payout charts
- Avoid sending very low-value items
Think of it like this. Send quality. Expect better results.
Common Complaints
No platform is perfect.
Some buyers report:
- Fit issues
- Return fees frustration
- Items selling out in carts
Some sellers report:
- Lower-than-expected payouts
- Slow processing times
- Items not accepted
Reading recent reviews can help set expectations.
Who Should Try thredUP?
thredUP is a great choice for:
- Busy parents
- College students
- Bargain hunters
- Eco-conscious shoppers
- People decluttering their closets
It may not be ideal for:
- Resellers seeking high profit margins
- People with luxury-only wardrobes
- Shoppers who need perfect tailoring
Final Verdict
So, is thredUP worth it?
For buyers, often yes. The discounts are real. The selection is huge. The thrill of finding a great deal is fun.
For sellers, it depends. The payouts can be modest. But the convenience is hard to beat.
In simple terms:
Buyers get savings.
Sellers get convenience.
The planet gets a break.
If that balance works for you, thredUP is absolutely worth trying.
Start small. Test it out. See how it feels. Your closet and your wallet might thank you.