Why a returned garment cannot always be sold again

Short answer: Because it may be worn, smell of perfume or be missing its label. An item that is not as new cannot be sold as new, so it has to be sorted elsewhere. That is the rule in most shops.

Signs of wear are the common cause

Make-up on the collar, deodorant under the arms or a pulled thread make the item worn. Even a single wearing can leave marks the next customer will see. Shirts are exposed at the collar and cuffs, where skin and make-up touch the fabric. One small stain is enough.

Smell settles into the fibres

Perfume and smoke get into the fabric and do not disappear with airing. The person who tried the item may hardly notice, but the next customer will at once. That is why returns are smelled before going back into stock. See bamboo shirt for men in several models.

A missing label is a problem too

Without the label the next customer cannot see the composition or care instructions. These are details a shop must give, and they cannot be guessed. A label that has been cut off can rarely be put back, so the item cannot be sold as new. See offers and offers for men.

Pulled threads and small damage

A loose thread or a small hole can appear with ordinary use, even with care. For the shop it means the item is not as delivered. Damage is found at the check, where the item is inspected under light and turned inside out so seams and edges are seen too.

A washed item counts as worn

Many think a wash makes an item ready to return. But a washed item counts as worn, because the shop cannot see what was washed out or how the fabric reacted. Try it dry and clean without washing it, and send it back in the same state as it arrived.

The shop's terms decide a lot

Some shops take an item back for a full refund if it is unopened. Others allow a short try-on indoors. The terms are on the website and differ from place to place. Read them before you order, so you know what is expected and what may lead to a partial refund.

What happens to the item afterwards

An item that cannot be sold as new is sorted out. The shop may sell it as second quality, give it away or send it for recycling. What happens depends on its condition and on what options the shop has. Every route costs time and money.

The refund follows the condition

If the item is in the same state as when sent, you normally get the full amount back. If there are signs of wear, smell or missing labels, the refund may be reduced or refused. That depends on the terms and the check, so ask before you send.

How to try on properly

Try the item indoors, with clean hands and without perfume, deodorant and make-up. Do not sit down if you want to avoid creases, and leave the labels on. Take it off as soon as you know if it fits. Then it stays in almost the same state as it arrived.

Frequently asked questions

What happens to the item then

It is sold as second quality, given away or sent for recycling. What happens depends on its condition and on what options the shop has to give it a new life.

Do I still get my money back

That depends on the condition of the item and the shop's terms. Ask before you send, so you know whether you get the full amount, part of it or nothing.