Selling used clothing can be a good way to earn extra money, but it often involves a lot of effort. The process requires creating a listing, taking photos, engaging with potential buyers, and shipping items. However, there’s a less time-consuming alternative — clothing trade-in programs offered by major brands.
These programs allow individuals to return clothes to the brand from which they were originally purchased. In return, customers can receive cash, store credit, or coupons. While these options may not yield as much profit as selling directly to buyers, they still provide a way to profit from clearing out one’s closet.
For those interested in getting rid of old clothes without the hassle of using platforms like Poshmark, the following brands offer trade-in programs:
1. Levi’s
Levi’s accepts old jeans — the older, the better — in exchange for a gift card. Vintage jeans can earn $30, while jeans made in the last decade fetch $5. For instance, trading in three pairs of vintage 501s could cover the cost of a new pair. To trade in denim for credit, an appointment at a participating Levi’s location is required.
2. Reformation
Anyone with a Reformation dress in their closet, perhaps from a bridesmaid or formal event, can take advantage of the brand’s RefRecycle program. This allows customers to trade in their dresses for $5 in store credit. To begin, users need to register online and then drop off the clothing at a Reformation store or mail it via USPS. It’s important to note that credits are non-transferable and can only be redeemed in increments of $50.
3. Lululemon
Lululemon’s “Like New” program not only allows customers to purchase used clothing but also gives them the chance to earn store credit. The process involves bringing gently used Lululemon items to a participating store. Shirts can fetch $5, leggings $10, and outerwear $25. The credit earned is provided as an e-gift card.
4. Eileen Fisher
Eileen Fisher offers a flat-rate store credit for used clothing, regardless of the condition. For example, customers can get $10 for a linen suit — $5 for the top and $10 for the bottom. If there’s a vest included, an additional $5 is added. This program is available in all U.S. Eileen Fisher stores or through mail-in services, with gift cards arriving within four to six weeks.
5. Los Angeles Apparel
While Los Angeles Apparel doesn’t buy back clothing, it offers a consignment option. Users can submit their item’s order number, report its condition, upload pictures, set a price, and wait for the item to sell. If the item sells, the seller receives 70% of the sale price in cash or 100% in store credit.
6. REI
Through the REI Re/Supply program, customers can trade in outdoor gear for store credit. For example, a used Patagonia snow jacket might bring in $92 in REI credit, while a pair of Keen hiking boots could earn $30. To participate, individuals must first ensure their gear is in good condition and are required to be REI members, which costs $30 to join. Used gear can be brought to REI stores or mailed in.
7. Carhartt
Carhartt offers up to $25 in store credit for certain work clothing, including jackets, overalls, vests, and pants. However, safety gear like high-visibility jackets and flame-resistant equipment is excluded. Participants can either drop off their items at a Carhartt store or mail them in for processing. After inspection, the items will be exchanged for an e-gift card.
8. Girlfriend Collective
Girlfriend Collective’s Regirlfriend program rewards customers with up to 30% off their next order. Unlike other programs, Regirlfriend accepts items from any brand, not just Girlfriend Collective products. The program offers $10 credit for Girlfriend items and $5 credit for non-Girlfriend items. The shipping label is free, and customers can send in multiple items at once. The credits can be used to get discounts on future purchases, such as $30 off a new $100 pair of leggings.
These trade-in programs provide a more convenient alternative to selling used clothing and allow individuals to earn rewards while decluttering their wardrobes.
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