School Uniform Condition Grading Guide
TL;DR - Quick Summary
Accurately grading your school uniform condition helps buyers know exactly what to expect and increases your chances of a sale. This guide explains Rethread's 6 condition grades from Like New (unworn, tags attached) to Average (heavy wear but functional). Check fabric quality, color fade, stitching, and overall appearance to choose the right grade.
Use this guide to accurately assess and grade your second-hand school uniforms. Honest condition grading builds buyer trust and leads to faster sales.
Condition Grades Overview
| Condition | Wear Level | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Like New | Unworn or worn once | Buyers wanting near-new quality | 60-80% of retail |
| Excellent | Minimal wear, looks great | Quality-conscious buyers | 50-65% of retail |
| Very Good | Light wear, well maintained | Everyday use | 40-55% of retail |
| Good | Moderate wear, clean | Budget-conscious families | 30-45% of retail |
| Fair | Noticeable wear, functional | Play clothes or temporary use | 20-35% of retail |
| Average | Heavy wear, still wearable | Sports practice or craft activities | 10-25% of retail |
Detailed Grading Criteria
Like New
Unworn or worn once, pristine condition
Criteria:
- Tags may still be attached or recently removed
- No visible wear whatsoever
- Fabric is crisp and looks brand new
- Colors are vibrant with zero fading
- All stitching perfect, no loose threads
- No pilling, no stains, no odors
When to use this grade:
Your child tried it on but never wore it to school, wrong size purchase, or worn once for a school photo.
Excellent
Minimal wear, looks nearly new
Criteria:
- Worn a few times but very well maintained
- No visible flaws or imperfections
- Colors remain bright and unfaded
- No pilling or fabric wear
- All buttons, zippers, and closures work perfectly
- Freshly washed and ready to wear
When to use this grade:
Worn for a term or less, kept as a "good" uniform, or outgrown quickly.
Very Good
Light wear, well cared for
Criteria:
- Worn regularly but gently
- Very minor signs of wear on close inspection
- Slight softening of fabric from washing
- Colors still strong with minimal fading
- Tiny amount of pilling may be present
- Overall excellent presentation
When to use this grade:
Worn for 1-2 terms regularly but treated with care.
Good
Moderate wear, clean and presentable
Criteria:
- Regular wear visible but item is clean
- Some color fading is noticeable
- Moderate pilling on fabric surfaces
- Minor repairs may have been made
- All functional elements work properly
- Suitable for everyday school wear
When to use this grade:
Worn for 2-3 terms or a full school year.
Fair
Noticeable wear but still functional
Criteria:
- Obvious signs of wear and use
- Significant color fading
- Visible pilling and fabric thinning
- May have small stains or marks
- Minor imperfections in stitching
- Still wearable and functional for school
When to use this grade:
Well-worn over multiple years, suitable for families prioritizing affordability.
Average
Heavy wear, basic functionality
Criteria:
- Heavily used with extensive wear
- Significant fading and discoloration
- Heavy pilling, fabric may be thin
- Stains or marks present
- May have repairs or alterations
- Still wearable but showing age
When to use this grade:
Worn for several years, best for sports practice, art class, or temporary emergency replacement.
Tips for Accurate Grading
Check in Good Light
Examine uniforms in natural daylight to see true colors and spot any fading or stains you might miss in artificial light.
Be Honest About Flaws
Always mention any stains, holes, or damage in your listing description. Honesty builds trust and prevents returns.
When in Doubt, Grade Down
If you're unsure between two grades, choose the lower one. Buyers will be pleasantly surprised by better-than-expected quality.
Clean Before Grading
Always wash items before assessing condition. A fresh clean can reveal the true condition and make items more appealing.
Ready to list your uniforms?
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