There are many, many sellers of used children’s clothing on eBay. For play clothes, it’s a great way to stretch your dollars, since children often grow out of clothing very quickly, so even basics often get very little wear. You can find wonderful, high-quality brands like Hanna Andersson and Gymboree, which are great for every day wear, at great prices here on ebay. Ebay is especially good for finding that special party dress or Easter outfit - boutique children’s clothing, which can be very expensive new, and often is only worn once or twice for a party, or photos, and then re-sold in like-new condition.

When you are trying to get the most for your money, and the best for your little one, it is important to know what you are getting when you bid on an eBay item. Because many sellers are simply cleaning house, they might not use a condition guide or very precise terms when listing their clothing.

What to look for when you are shopping:

Statement of condition. Rating clothing is very subjective and difficult. I like to use this condition guide in my clothing listings, as I feel it is very precise:

NEW~ New with or without tags, never washed or worn; no flaws
LIKE NEW~ Appears new, no signs of wear; washed and possibly worn; no flaws
EXCELLENT~ Previously worn, with only very slight wash wear; no flaws
VERY GOOD~ Previously worn with moderate wash wear/fade, but no visible flaws
GOOD/PLAY~ Previously worn with minor visible flaw(s), and/or significant wash wear/fade
FAIR~ Previously worn with significant visible flaw(s), and/or heavy wash wear/fade
POOR~ Not wearable, has severe flaws/damage, but with desirable useable element(s)

Note: Flaws might include spots, stains, holes, tears, fabric irregularities, or problems with buttons, zippers, snaps, etc. Please see listing descriptions for specific condition details.

I do not sell items in Fair or Poor condition, but I include a rating so that people fully understand the scale items are graded on.

When a seller does not use a specific condition guide, or does not state condition, or uses only a general phrase like “good shape” or “gently used”, it is important to read the listing for details of condition, and ask any questions about things that aren’t in the listing before you bid. Don’t assume anything! Email the seller and ask: Does this item have any stains, rips, wash wear, or other flaws? Be very specific so the seller understands exactly what you want to know. If they don’t answer, don’t bid. If the answer is not clear, ask for more details, or don’t bid.

It can often be helpful to ask for measurements before you bid. It is very hard for a seller to say “this item runs big (or small)”. It is better to ask for specific measurements so you can be sure of a correct fit.

Look for listings that have good, clear photos of the items. You want to see what you are getting. A blurry photo CAN mean the seller has a bad camera, but it can also be hiding flaws in an item.

Make sure shipping charges are stated up front in the auction listing. You are trying to save money! Don’t get an unpleasant surprise at the end. Many sellers will combine shipping for you on multiple purchases, but don’t assume they will! Look for this in the listing, or contact the seller and ask in advance.

You are now ready to build up a fun wardrobe for your little angel!