Because “used” should still feel clean, safe, and like new.

Whether you’re thrifting, shopping online, or scoring a great deal from our eBay store, buying secondhand is a smart move — for your wallet and the planet. But before those gently-used treasures land in your child’s closet or toy bin, it’s important to give them a proper refresh.

Here’s everything you need to know about safely washing and caring for used clothes and toys — from disinfecting tips to gentle cleaning methods that preserve quality.

Step 1: How to Wash Secondhand Clothes

Even if items look spotless, it’s best to assume they’ve had a life before landing in your hands. Here’s how to make them fresh again:

Pre-Sort Like a Pro

• By fabric: Separate delicate items (lace, knits) from sturdier ones (denim, cotton).
• By color: Wash darks, lights, and brights separately to prevent bleeding.
• Check labels: Some items may require cold water, air drying, or special detergents.

Best Washing Practices

• Use hot water (when safe for the fabric) to kill germs, bacteria, and allergens.
• Add white vinegar (½ cup) to your rinse cycle to neutralize odors and soften clothes naturally.
• Consider adding baking soda for stain removal or deep cleaning.
• Use a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic detergent for baby or toddler clothing.

Pro Tip:

For heavily used or questionable items, soak them in a sink or tub with warm water, a scoop of oxygen bleach (like OxiClean), and a splash of vinegar for 30 minutes before washing.

Step 2: How to Clean Used Toys

First, Sort Toys by Type:

• Hard toys (plastic, wood, silicone)
• Soft toys (plush, fabric-based)
• Battery-operated/electronics

Cleaning Hard Toys

• Wash in a sink or large bin with hot, soapy water (use dish soap or baby-safe cleaner).
• Scrub with a clean sponge or toothbrush for grooves and crevices.
• Rinse thoroughly and let air dry completely.

For a deeper clean, you can:

• Disinfect with a diluted bleach solution (1 tbsp bleach to 1 gallon water — safe once dry).
• Or use a vinegar spray for a more natural method.

Washing Plush Toys

• Check the care label first!
• Place in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase.
• Wash on a gentle cycle with cold or warm water.
• Air dry or tumble dry low (you can add dryer balls or a clean towel to fluff).

What About Electronic or Battery-Powered Toys?

• Remove batteries before cleaning.
• Wipe with disinfectant wipes or a cloth dampened with water + a few drops of dish soap.
• Use a dry cloth to finish and let sit before reinserting batteries.

Optional Finishing Touches

• Steam cleaners are great for plush toys, upholstery, and baby gear.
• Spray items with linen spray or fabric refresher for that “new” smell.
• Sunlight is a natural disinfectant — lay freshly washed items in direct sun for a few hours!

Why This Matters

Taking a few extra steps to clean secondhand items ensures:

• They’re safe for your child to wear or play with.
• You extend the lifespan of quality items.
• You feel confident in the purchases you’re making.

At our store, we do our best to inspect and list items honestly — but once they arrive, your wash and care routine gives them a brand-new life.

Ready to Shop Clean, Gently Loved Clothing?

Check out our latest listings of affordable, grouped clothing lots — all washed, folded, and ready for your final refresh:

👉 Browse the Store Now