GUIDE · LISTING TEXT
Why “barely worn” sells nothing.
How to describe the condition so buyers believe you.
In short
“Barely worn” is a claim, not information. Buyers believe concrete details: how often it was worn, whether there are stains, pilling or discolouration, where exactly, and a photo of it. Describing it precisely protects you too: Vinted points out that buyers can cancel or return an item if its condition is significantly worse than described.
- Concrete, not vague
- Flaws with location
- Photo as proof
What's wrong with “barely worn”?
Buyers believe this
- “Worn three times, washed at 30°C”
- “No pilling, no stains”
- “Slight shine on the collar, see photo 5”
Not this
- “Barely worn”
- “Good condition”
- “Minor signs of wear” without a photo
Which condition level is the right one?
On Vinted you choose an item condition when you list. What each level means is explained by Vinted itself in the help page “Choosing item condition”, which also advises choosing the lower condition if you're unsure. Our recommendation is the same: a buyer who gets better than expected leaves a good review. One who gets worse sends it back.
Why does the condition matter legally too?
For a private sale in England, Citizens Advice explains that goods must match their description; a buyer who gets something else can ask for the difference in value. Lawyer Jens K. Fusbahn advised, speaking to the German magazine Öko-Test, documenting used items with real photos: signs of wear, washed condition, pilling, discolouration, seams and labels.
Frequently asked questions
What does “very good” mean on Vinted?
Vinted defines that itself in the help page “Choosing item condition”; we don't interpret it. Our recommendation: if you're unsure, pick the level below.
Do I have to mention every small fault?
Our recommendation: yes, anything you'd see when unpacking it. A photo of it saves arguments.
Can I write “like new”?
Only if it's true. For worn items, be concrete instead: “worn twice, no marks”.
Does washing count as use?
Yes. Say how often and how you washed it, if the item is delicate.