Well, found out the very hard way that sometimes, buying LOTS of clothes isn't always a good deal. You think you are saving some of your hard earned money buying your kids some back to school clothing only to have a box of unwashed and dirty laundry come your way. These lots that you win for $10/$15 might end up being a good bargain as long as you do not have to wash everything 2 or 3 times to get odors out.

I know this might sound like I am complaining or a case of sour grapes or buyer beware however, you would think that people who smoke or have pets would be aware that there are many people with severe allergies to these things and would ensure that they would at least wash & dry things before shipping them out - or heaven forbid, at least throw a bounce sheet in the box? I normally ask BEFORE to be completely sure but sometimes, the auction is about to end and you just have to jump right in. If this is the case, make sure to send your seller a note requesting that the clothing be cleaned and dried before shipping - just to be on the safe side.

The last box I had received wreaked of cigarettes (ever smell a soaking wet ashtray) and a damp dog! AWFUL combination. Imagine your excitement, you got to sign for your package from the postman, bring it indoors and rush to find the scissors. Proceed to open the box of your purchase only to be disgusted and floored by a horribly awful smell! I was glad I was home to receive this package as both my wife & son do have severe allergies to both smoke & pets

Follow 2 rules of thumb...

1) Ask the seller to CLEAN & WASH the items BEFORE Shipping
2) Ask if there is a SMOKER or PET in the home

9 times out of 10, most will comply and be honest with you or actually list it on the auction. Unfortunately, some really sick and sad people are out there that simply cannot be bothered and would rather just mail you their dirty laundry!

What most of you may not be aware of is that is is part of eBay's policy for sellers to clean the clothing to the manufacturers instructions on the tag BEFORE shipping them out.

Here is the help topic:
Used Clothing

Just so everyone is reminded that things should be clean - regardless if they are used or not.

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