Top 40 Brands with the Best Resale Value

Brand Winners

If you’re hoping to recoup the most from your kids clothing spend, we recommend investing in these brands, which retain the best resale value over time: Gymboree, BabyGAP, Justice, Levis, GAP Kids, OshKosh, Lands’ End, Adidas, Limited Too and Rare Editions.

condition is key when reselling clothing

Condition of the clothing is number one when it comes to any type of resale. Most consignment shops or websites won‘t accept any clothing that has stains, tears or even showing excessive wear or pilling. Make sure your clothing is in practically new condition before sending it in. Here are some expert tips on how to keep your clothes in great condition:

• Try not to use hot water when washing clothes because color will fade more quickly.
• Hang or store polos with the collar turned up to prevent fading aroudn deep creases.
• Don’t overdo detergent because the residue can actually attract dirt.
• Avoid shrinkage by only putting clothing in the dryer if you have to.
• Purchase an electric lint shaver that can remove pills and signs of excessive wear.
• Treat stains immediately before they set—especially grease!
• Try to hand wash clothing with embellishments, or turn them inside out in the washer.
• Wash all clothing before bringing or mailing it to a consignment shop.

When to splurge, when to skimp

Quality is key. Invest in “Family Favorite” brands like Gymboree and GAP, or “Premium” brands like Hanna Andersson and Janie & Jack to get the best return on your initial investment. “Bargain” brands like Carter’s have a lower ROI, because they are more likely to show wear and tear. If you’re working with a tight budget, here are some more specific recommendations on when to splurge on higher-end brands and when to skimp:

• Resale Pro Tip—Outerwear: If you’re on a budget, buy “Bargain” brand jackets like Carters. Normally, you’ll want to avoid cheaper brands if you’re planning to resell clothing, as they'll show more wear and tear. However, jackets are washed infrequently and better retain their value.
• Resale Pro Tip—Formalwear: Splurge, spurge, splurge on “Premium” or Designer brands like Janie & Jack! High-end formalwear flies off resale shelves because thrifters want the pricey look for special occasions, without the pricey tag. Plus, high-end formalwear is just that much cuter for photos!
• Resale Pro Tip—Casual Staples: Don’t skimp on the clothing that your children will wear daily. Dresses, jeans, light sweaters of “Family Favorite” and “Premium” brands like Gymboree, GAP or Tea Collection are versatile and hold up well after many wears and washes.
• Resale Pro Tip—Play Clothes: Your best bet is buying and re-selling “Family Favorite” brands like Gymboree or OshKosh when it comes to play clothes. You don’t want to splurge on designer duds for this everyday wear, and “Bargain” brands will show excessive wear pretty quickly.

Other sites that help you turn clutter into cash

Just in time for spring cleaning, here’s a list of great websites that can help you turn clutter into cash—all without leaving the house!