How to inspect a used-clothing listing
Read the description alongside the photographs. A broad condition label leaves plenty of questions unanswered.
Look at the wear points
For shirts, inspect the collar, cuffs and underarms. For jeans, check the inner thighs, seat, pockets and hems. For sweaters, look closely for holes, pilling and stretched cuffs. Request photographs of any area you cannot see clearly.
Ask specific questions
Instead of asking whether an item is in good condition, ask whether it has stains, holes, repairs, missing buttons or a broken zipper. Ask about odors if that matters to you. A photograph cannot answer that question. Keep the conversation in the marketplace’s messaging system.
Separate flaws from fixes
Decide which flaws you are willing to accept. Do not assume an unidentified stain will wash out or that a repair will be inexpensive. If a repair is essential, get a realistic estimate before buying. A low purchase price can stop being attractive once you add the work needed.
Check promptly on arrival
Compare the item with the listing before removing tags, washing or altering it. Photograph a problem and contact the seller through the marketplace. Review the platform’s current return instructions before sending anything back.
For current eBay return rules, consult eBay’s returns and refunds help and the individual listing.