New or second hand clothes
Short answer: Second hand clothes can be a good choice for outerwear, dresses and trousers, while most people prefer underwear and close fitting clothes new, for reasons of hygiene and fit. Choose by what the garment is used for and how close it sits to the body.
Advantages of new clothes
New clothes have not been worn before, so you know they are clean and the fabric is not worn. You can choose exactly the size, colour and style you want, and you can often exchange if it does not fit. New clothes have their full life ahead of them. For clothes that sit close to the body, this is a big advantage. They are also easy to find, because you can search for the style you know. That gives security when fit matters.
Advantages of second hand clothes
Second hand clothes can be cheaper, and you can find styles that are no longer sold. Many garments are still in good condition because they have only been worn a few times. It is a good way to expand the wardrobe without buying new. By giving clothes a new life you extend their lifespan. It also lets you try something without committing too much. See bamboo trousers for women if you want to compare with new clothes.
What you should buy new
Underwear, socks and clothes that lie close to the skin are bought new by most people for reasons of hygiene. See bamboo bodysuit, where fit and freshness matter. The same applies to swimwear and clothes where the elastic must be in top condition. Second hand underwear may have lost elasticity, and you cannot see how it has been washed. If in doubt, choose new.
What you can buy second hand
Outerwear, dresses, skirts, trousers, jackets and knitwear are often good to buy second hand. They do not lie close to the skin, and wear is easy to see. Check seams, buttons and zips, and smell the clothes. Wash them before you wear them. Clothes in soft fabric such as viscose from bamboo can be fine second hand if they have not been pulled out of shape. See bamboo undershirt for women if you want a new base layer under second hand clothes.
What to check
When you buy second hand, look for stains, holes, loose seams and dropped stitches. Feel the fabric: is it thin or bobbly? Try the clothes on if you can, and check the fit. Ask the seller how it has been washed. Look at the care label so you know how to look after it. If something smells of smoke or damp, it can be hard to remove.
Our recommendation by situation
Choose new for underwear, socks and close fitting clothes, and when fit and elastic are decisive. Choose second hand for outerwear, dresses, trousers and knitwear if the price and style suit. Try mixing: new basics and second hand outerwear often give the best result. What matters most is that the clothes are clean, fit and get worn. Do not buy anything you cannot see yourself in.
Frequently asked questions
Is second hand underwear hygienic
Most people choose new underwear for reasons of hygiene and elastic. Consider new for everything that lies close.
How do I wash second hand clothes
Wash them at the temperature the label allows before you wear them. Use a mild detergent.
What should I check on second hand clothes
Stains, holes, seams, buttons and smell. Feel the fabric and try it on if possible.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
