Hey thrift shoppers and bargain hunters! Have you ever wondered if the Salvation Army washes their clothes before putting them on display? Well, wonder no more!
In this blog post, we’re going to dive deep into the world of Salvation Army’s washing practices and provide some handy tips for those who love shopping at thrift stores.
Does Salvation Army Wash Their Clothes?
Let’s get straight to the point: the Salvation Army does not generally wash their clothes before putting them out for sale. Much like Goodwill, they rely on donations being clean and ready-to-wear. While they may occasionally clean certain items, it’s not a guarantee.
But hey, don’t be too bummed out! We’ve got some great tips and washing techniques to help you ensure your thrift store finds are clean and fresh.
Essential Tips for Washing Your Thrift Store Finds
To ensure your thrift store finds are clean and fresh, follow these guidelines to properly wash and care for your new-to-you items:
1. Always Pre-Wash
It’s crucial to pre-wash your thrift store items before wearing them. This helps eliminate any lingering germs, allergens, or odors that might be present. Use a gentle detergent and add a cup of white vinegar during the rinse cycle to help remove any stubborn smells.
2. Check the Labels and Do Your Research
Always follow the care instructions on clothing labels to prevent damage. If you’re unsure about washing certain materials, visit our comprehensive washing guides, such as how to wash a leather jacket, machine-washing knitted baby clothes, or washing a bomber jacket.
3. Sort Your Laundry Thoughtfully
Sorting your laundry by color and material type is essential to preserve the quality and vibrancy of your thrifted items. Separate your laundry into categories like whites, light colors, dark colors, and delicates. For specific advice, check out our posts on washing jeans with other clothes or washing light gray with white.
4. Use the Right Temperature and Washing Techniques
Choose the appropriate temperature and washing techniques for each type of clothing. Visit our guides on the best temperature to wash jeans and how to wash ripped jeans for tips. If you’re concerned about your jeans shrinking, explore our post on do jeans shrink in the wash.
5. Show Your Shoes Some Love
Thrift store shoes can be a fantastic find, but they need proper care, too. Many shoes and sneakers can be washed in a washing machine, while others can be cleaned by hand.
You can follow our guide on how to wash Converse shoes, clean Air Force sneakers, wash Skechers shoes the right way, or clean Stacy Adams shoes to keep them looking fresh.
Or have them professionally cleaned if they’re worth it.
6. Care for Bedding and Linens
Ensure your thrifted bedding and linens are clean and comfortable by following our guides on washing a bed bug mattress cover, washing fleece blankets, and washing sheets to avoid bed bugs. Remember to wash new sheets before using them, as explained in our post on the reasons to wash new sheets.
7. Hand-Washing Delicates
For delicate items like lingerie or garments with embellishments, hand-washing is often the safest option. Learn how to hand wash your underwear and other delicate items to ensure their longevity and preserve their quality.
8. Drying and Storage Tips
Proper drying and storage are just as important as washing. Hang or lay flat to dry any items that may shrink or lose shape in the dryer. Remember to store your items in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading and damage.
9. Removing Stains and Odors
Thrift store finds may come with stubborn stains or odors. Make sure you are comfortable tackling these tough stains prior to purchasing the items. Or at least make sure you will be comfortable living with these defects if you aren’t able to remove them.
You can check out our guide on washing gasoline out of clothes for ideas to help you tackle these challenges.
10. Caring for Unusual Items
You might come across some unique items at thrift stores that require special care. Always check the care instructions and follow them accordingly. You can also check the company’s website for washing instructions if the care label is missing.
Final Thoughts
By following these comprehensive tips and referring to our washing guides, you’ll be able to clean, maintain, and enjoy your thrift store finds with confidence.
Remember, shopping at thrift stores like the Salvation Army not only saves you money but also helps the environment by giving pre-loved items a new lease on life. Happy thrifting!