Underwear is a very personal item, and we understand many people are unsure how to handle it when it’s no longer needed. Common questions we hear include, “Can I sell used underwear?”, “Is it okay to donate worn underwear?”, or “What’s the best way to deal with old underwear?” At Indetexx, as a leading supplier and exporter of second-hand clothing in bulk, we know how important it is to manage used underwear properly. This guide shares our professional advice to help consumers, resellers, and wholesalers make informed decisions about used underwear.
1. Can You Donate Used Underwear?
The Reality of Donating Used Underwear
When it comes to donating used underwear, the answer is generally no—most charitable organizations and thrift stores do not accept worn underwear. This is primarily due to hygiene concerns and health regulations.
For example, Goodwill, one of the largest nonprofit thrift organizations in the United States, explicitly states that donated items must be clean and in good condition, but they do not accept used underwear for safety reasons. Similarly, many local charities, shelters, and donation centers follow the same guideline.
Exceptions: When Can You Donate Underwear?
If you have new, unopened underwear, donation is usually accepted. Some women’s shelters or crisis centers may also accept underwear donations if the items are sealed and brand new. This helps support those in vulnerable situations with essential clothing.
Textile Recycling Programs as Alternatives
For underwear that is used or worn out, the best option is to seek textile recycling programs. These programs handle worn textiles responsibly, breaking down fibers for reuse in insulation, cleaning cloths, or even new fabrics.
Many cities now provide textile recycling bins, and some retailers partner with brands that offer take-back programs for intimate apparel. Participating in these initiatives is a great way to dispose of old underwear in an eco-friendly manner.
Indetexx’s Take on Donations
At Indetexx, we recommend sorting underwear separately from other clothing when donating or selling. Due to health and regulatory concerns, used underwear is rarely accepted in donations or wholesale shipments unless specifically allowed by the receiving organization and the items are in new condition.
What Websites Can You Use to Sell Used Underwear?
There is a niche but active market for used underwear online, often tied to adult content or specific lifestyle communities. While platforms like eBay and Amazon explicitly prohibit the sale of used intimate apparel, some niche or resale-oriented platforms do allow legal and discreet transactions.
Popular platforms where individuals sell used underwear include:
- Sofia Gray – A specialized marketplace for worn intimates.
- Snifffr – A platform for personal sellers of used undergarments.
- OnlyFans – Used by some content creators for direct private sales.
- Depop – While primarily for fashion resale, some sellers offer clean, gently-used intimates.
- Etsy – Allows vintage or handmade underwear sales, subject to hygiene policies.
- Vinted – A peer-to-peer fashion platform where some users sell second-hand underwear.
- Poshmark – Known for second-hand apparel, though rules may vary by region.
⚠️ Important: Sellers must always check and comply with each platform’s specific policies and local regulations before listing second-hand underwear, especially regarding hygiene and packaging requirements.
How to Sell Used Underwear Safely and Effectively
- Maintain anonymity: Use pseudonyms or anonymous profiles to protect privacy.
- Secure payments: Use trusted payment platforms to avoid scams.
- Clear communication: Be upfront about the condition and history of the item.
- Packaging and hygiene: Ensure the item is cleaned or clearly state its condition, and package discreetly.
Who Typically Buys Used Underwear?
Buyers range from fetish enthusiasts to collectors. Some seek personalized or custom-worn items, while others may buy in bulk for resale in local markets.
3. How Much Can You Make Selling Used Underwear?
The income from selling used underwear varies greatly depending on factors like item condition, customization, and seller experience.
- Basic worn underwear typically sells for $2 to $50 per piece.
- Customized or specially requested items can command higher prices, sometimes over $100.
- Experienced sellers who build a steady client base or offer subscription services can earn anywhere from several hundred to a few thousand dollars per month.
However, this market requires consistent effort, good marketing skills, and awareness of legal and social considerations.
4. Can You Sell or Export Used Underwear in Bulk? Indetexx’s Professional Perspective
Hygiene and Legal Restrictions
From a wholesale and export viewpoint, used underwear presents several challenges:
- Many countries prohibit or strictly regulate the import of used intimate apparel due to hygiene concerns.
- Customs often flag or reject shipments containing used underwear.
- Buyers typically prefer second-hand outerwear, denim, and accessories over underwear.
Indetexx’s Position on Bulk Shipments
At Indetexx, we specialize in supplying bulk second-hand clothing worldwide, focusing on the following main categories:
For footwear, we offer:
We do include used underwear in our product range only after strict hygienic processing and disinfection, ensuring compliance with health standards and meeting specific market needs.
What About New or Unworn Underwear?
New, unopened underwear—such as overstock or clearance items—can also be included in our offerings as brand-new merchandise for appropriate markets.
Advice for Bulk Buyers and Sellers
- Confirm whether used underwear is included in the shipment, and whether it meets the hygiene standards of the destination country.
- Suppliers should properly disinfect, label, and package used underwear separately.
- Always research and comply with the specific import laws regarding used intimate wear in your target market.
5. What to Do with Used Underwear: Eco-Friendly Alternatives
If selling or donating used underwear isn’t an option, here are several responsible and eco-friendly ways to manage these items:
Textile Recycling
Many cities now provide textile recycling bins where you can dispose of worn clothing, including underwear. These programs break down fabrics to create new fibers, insulation materials, or cleaning cloths, helping reduce landfill waste and promote sustainability.
Upcycling Ideas
Instead of throwing away old underwear, consider repurposing the fabric:
- Cleaning rags: Soft cotton or fabric pieces can be cut into rags, perfect for household cleaning or polishing tasks.
- Pet bedding and stuffing: The fabric can serve as comfortable padding or stuffing for pet beds, toys, or cushions.
- Craft and DIY projects: Materials like lace, elastic bands, or decorative trims can be reused in handmade accessories, such as headbands, bracelets, or even sewn onto other garments for decoration.
Take-Back Programs
Some clothing brands and organizations run take-back initiatives, encouraging customers to send back used intimate apparel for recycling. These programs ensure the items are processed responsibly, minimizing environmental impact and supporting circular fashion efforts.
By exploring these options, you can extend the life of used underwear and contribute to a more sustainable approach to clothing disposal.
6. Indetexx’s Expertise and Advice on Handling Used Underwear
As a specialized supplier of second-hand underwear, Indetexx is committed to providing high-quality intimate apparel that meets strict hygiene and safety standards:
- Careful Sorting and Inspection: We meticulously sort and inspect all used underwear to ensure cleanliness and quality. Only items that meet our strict standards are included in shipments, guaranteeing safe and comfortable products for our buyers.
- Sanitization and Quality Control: Our products undergo thorough sanitization processes compliant with international health regulations. We prioritize delivering underwear that is not only affordable but also hygienic and ready for resale.
- Compliance with Legal and Import Requirements: Indetexx is fully aware of varying international regulations on used intimate apparel. We work closely with clients to ensure that shipments comply with all relevant laws and customs requirements, minimizing risk and ensuring smooth delivery.
- Transparent Communication and Custom Solutions: We maintain open communication with buyers regarding product condition, packaging, and shipment details. Our team is also experienced in tailoring product mixes and packaging to meet specific market demands and import guidelines.
With years of experience in the second-hand underwear market, Indetexx stands as a trusted partner for wholesalers and retailers seeking reliable, hygienic, and competitively priced intimate apparel.
Conclusion
Used underwear is a complex and sensitive category within the second-hand clothing industry. While niche online markets exist for selling used underwear, and some donation options are available for new items, the general consensus—especially among wholesale and export professionals—is to exclude used underwear from bulk shipments due to hygiene, legal, and buyer preference reasons.
For consumers, donating new, unopened underwear or recycling worn items is the safest and most responsible approach. For resellers or entrepreneurs exploring niche online sales, understanding legal boundaries and market demands is crucial for success.
At Indetexx, we are committed to providing clean, compliant, and high-quality second-hand apparel for global markets. If you are interested in sourcing bulk second-hand clothing—excluding used underwear—contact us today to learn how we can support your business.
