Where and How to Buy or Sell Second-hand School Uniforms

School uniforms can be expensive, especially when kids grow fast or change schools. That’s why second-hand school uniforms have become a popular choice for families across Australia. It’s a smart, budget-friendly, and environmentally responsible option. Some parents are searching for affordable second hand school uniform, while others are looking for practical ways to pass along uniforms their kids no longer use. This guide is here to help with both.

By tapping into second hand uniform options, families can reduce waste and support a sustainable school shop culture. It also opens up opportunities for parents to connect, support each other, and make sure no good uniform goes unused.

Best Places to Buy Second-hand School Uniforms

Finding the right place to buy school uniforms doesn't have to mean heading straight for a retail store. There are plenty of reliable options across Australia where you can pick up second hand school uniform items at a fraction of the cost. 

1. School Uniform Shops or Swap Events

Many schools across Australia run their own uniform sales. These can be seasonal events or ongoing shops managed by the school or the parent committee. Often, these school uniform sales feature gently used items at half the price of new ones. Some schools also run a uniform swap system where parents can exchange items their children have outgrown.

Check your school's website or newsletter to see if there is a school uniform buy swap and sell system in place, it's one of the most convenient ways to buy school uniform pieces that meet the school’s current dress code.

2. Online Marketplaces & Apps

If you’re not sure where to buy uniform for school, look online. Many platforms are packed with listings for second hand school uniforms, used school bags, and other school essentials. You can also find school-specific Facebook groups where local parents buy, sell, and swap uniforms.

There are also second hand school uniform websites that are dedicated to this need. One standout in Australia is Rethread, a sustainable school shop that lets parents list, search, and purchase school items locally.

3. Op Shops and Local Thrift Stores

Charity stores like Salvos, Vinnies, and Red Cross occasionally stock school uniforms. While the variety may be limited, it’s worth checking, especially if your child attends a public school with a generic dress code. These shops that sell school uniform items often have low prices and support community programs.

How to Buy Used School Uniforms on Rethread

Rethread is a second hand school uniform website created specifically for families in Australia. As part of the sustainable school shop movement, Rethread allows you to find and buy school uniform items with ease.

Here’s how to buy school uniforms online through Rethread:

1. Visit the Rethread Listings Page

Navigate to Rethread Listings to explore available second hand school uniforms.

2. Filter Your Search

Use the filtering options to narrow down listings by:

3. Browse Listings

Scroll through the filtered results to view available items. Each listing includes photos, item descriptions, sizes, conditions, and prices.

4. Select an Item

Click on a listing to view more details. Ensure the item meets your requirements and check for seller information.

5. Add to Cart and Checkout

If the item suits your needs, add it to your cart and proceed to checkout. Rethread holds your payment securely until you confirm receipt of the item, ensuring a safe transaction.

6. Arrange Delivery or Pickup

Coordinate with the seller for shipping or local pickup, depending on the options provided in the listing.

7. Confirm Receipt and Leave a Review

Once you’ve received the item and are satisfied, confirm receipt on the platform. Consider leaving a review to support the seller and assist other buyers.

Rethread makes it easier than ever to find affordable used school uniform items while supporting a circular economy in school uniform Australia communities.

Tips for Buying Second Hand Uniforms for School\

Buying second hand uniform items is easy when you know what to look for. Here are some quick tips:

It’s not only about cost savings. Choosing a second hand uniform shop or platform also supports sustainable consumption and keeps old school uniforms in circulation.

Where to Sell Second-hand School Uniforms

If your child has outgrown their uniform, don’t throw it away. Selling or donating it is a great way to declutter and help other families. It can also give new life to those items through shops that sell school uniform pieces. Here’s where to take old school uniform items:

1. Online Platforms

Websites like Rethread make it simple to list old school uniforms. These second hand school uniform websites are designed for easy browsing by school name, location, and uniform type.

2. School Channels

Some schools have a noticeboard or digital portal where parents can post items for sale. Others run their own second hand uniform shop. These school-run channels are trusted and make it easy to reach other families in your school community.

3. Local Markets or Community Events

Many suburbs host weekend markets where locals sell used goods. School-related items often attract attention at back-to-school time. Keep an eye out for these events, or consider hosting your own stall.

How to Sell Used School Uniforms on Rethread

If you're wondering what to do with old school uniforms, Rethread offers a simple and eco-friendly way to list and sell schoolwear.

Here’s how to sell school uniform items on Rethread:

1. Create an Account

Visit Rethread’s Sell Page and sign up for a free account. The process is quick and requires basic information to get started.

2. List Your Items

Take clear photos of the uniforms you wish to sell. Provide detailed descriptions, including size, condition, and the specific school if applicable. Set a fair price for each item.

3. Choose Delivery Options

Decide whether you want to offer shipping, local pickup, or both. Rethread’s platform facilitates communication between buyers and sellers to arrange the best delivery method.

4. Secure Payment

Once the buyer receives the item and confirms its condition, Rethread releases the payment to you. The platform charges a minimal 3% fee upon sale, ensuring you earn more while helping others save.

This is a smart way to support a sustainable school shop environment and earn from your old school uniform items.

Tips for Selling Used School Uniforms Successfully

To increase your chances of a quick sale and make your listings more attractive to busy parents who are looking for affordable, ready-to-use uniforms:

Selling or donating uniforms is a small action that has big benefits. It helps other families, reduces landfill, and supports the idea of a sustainable school shop culture.

What to Do with Unsold Second-hand Uniforms

If your second hand uniform shop or listing starts to build up too much unsold stock, don’t panic. There are practical ways to manage it. First, consider offering bundle deals or discounts for multiple-item purchases to encourage buyers. Refresh your listings with updated photos or descriptions to make them more appealing.

You can also rotate inventory by donating older or slower-selling items to local charities, community centres, or even back to the school. Some parents may be more likely to pick up free items or trade instead of buying. Reducing clutter not only helps you stay organised but also ensures that your second hand school uniform offerings stay relevant, tidy, and easy to browse.

Final Tip: Time it Right

Timing matters when you want to buy or sell school uniforms. The best time is a few weeks before the school year or term starts. Parents are actively searching then, and you're more likely to get quick responses. 

Set reminders to check what your child needs and what they’ve outgrown every 6 months. This habit can help you keep uniforms in circulation and out of the bin.



Second-hand school uniforms are affordable, better for the environment, and often just as good as new. By knowing where to buy school uniform pieces and how to sell school uniform items effectively, you help create a more thoughtful and eco-friendly school year. So the next time you're wondering what to do with old school uniforms, remember: someone else might need exactly what you're ready to pass on.

A great place to start is Rethread, Australia’s trusted second hand school uniform website. The platform is easy to use, offers localised listings by school, and helps connect families looking to buy or sell gently used uniforms and used school bags. It’s part of a broader movement toward a more sustainable school shop culture, where quality items stay in circulation longer.

If you’re ready to take part, head over to Rethread’s registration page and create your free account. If you’re looking to clear out old uniforms or prepare for the next school term, joining Rethread is a simple step toward savings, sustainability, and community connection.