When you’re thrifting, it’s important to be able to spot a good deal. But it’s also important to be able to tell if an item is too far gone to be worth your time and money. This guide will help you understand how to assess the condition of thrift store finds, and how to clean and repair them so they’ll last for years to come.
Assessing the condition of thrift store finds
The first step in deciding whether or not to thrift an item is to assess its condition. There are a few things you should look for:
-Stains: Stains can be difficult to remove, and some may never come out completely. If an item has a large or dark stain, it may not be worth your time to try to remove it.
-Tears: Tears can usually be repaired, but it’s important to make sure the fabric is not too damaged. If the fabric is ripped or frayed, it may be too difficult to repair.
-Missing buttons: Buttons are easy to replace, so this is not usually a deal-breaker.
-Missing pieces: If an item is missing a piece, such as a belt loop or a button, it may still be worth buying. However, if an item is missing a significant piece, such as a sleeve or a leg, it’s probably not worth your time.
Cleaning thrift store finds
Once you’ve decided to thrift an item, the next step is to clean it. The best way to clean thrift store finds is to soak them in a mixture of water and vinegar. This will kill any bacteria or germs that may be on the item, and it will also help to remove any lingering smells.
After soaking the item, wash it in your washing machine using the hottest water setting. If the item is very delicate, you may want to hand wash it instead.
Once the item is clean, it’s important to dry it thoroughly. If an item is even slightly damp, it can develop mold or mildew.
Repairing thrift store finds
Once an item is clean, you may need to do some repairs before you can wear it. Here are some common repairs you may need to do:
-Sewing on missing buttons
-Mending tears
-Replacing missing pieces
-Ironing out wrinkles
If you’re not sure how to do a particular repair, there are plenty of resources available online. You can also take the item to a tailor or a dry cleaner, and they will usually be able to do the repair for you.
Thrifting can be a great way to find unique, stylish, and affordable clothing. But it’s important to be aware of the condition of the items you’re buying, and to know how to clean and repair them so they’ll last. With a little bit of effort, you can thrift beautiful clothing that will last for years.
