Check the hidden spots before you pack. Condition is the number one reason an item gets declined. We're cautious of pilling and fading, and don't accept items with odors, pet hair, tears, holes, or broken zippers, snaps, or buttons.
We only accept current styles that kids are wearing today. Vintage is ok, out of style isn't. A beautifully made piece from Carters in great condition can be considered an essential, but a Ralph Lauren sweater with a hole in the cuff won't get accepted. We don't accept items without a recognizable label, and nothing from Shein. Right now we're focused on everyday American and European styles, so traditional dress isn't something we can place yet.
This is where we get extra picky. We never accept underwear, and swimwear must be in like-new condition, especially for girls. Socks and shoes are only ever accepted in like-new condition or tags attached. Any signs of wear will automatically be declined. Accessories must be in great or like new condition, and worth at least $20 new.
Essentials. A widely recognized brand, and ready for its next use.
Elevated. Whether brand, materials, construction, or all three, these pieces are usually sought after, hold their value the longest, and are usually worth more.
Special. Designer names, investment pieces, standout outerwear, and occasion pieces. Send a special item and you bring one home for no extra fee. If you don't have one to send, use a credit you already have and pay the difference. And as long as you take care of it, send it back and swap it for another special next month, and the month after that.
Wooden puzzles, shape sorters, building sets, pretend play. The kinds of things kids come back to instead of getting bored of. We love Montessori style, but we have an open mind.
Everything must be able to be wiped clean or washed easily. Nothing oversized or bulky. It must EASILY fit in your swap bag along with other toys. If it doesn't fit well, it won't swap well, so unfortunately we can't accept it. Nothing loud and low-quality that's headed for the bin in a month.
We check every toy against the CPSC's current recall notices, and don't accept anything that can be a choking hazard, or dangerous. Specifics are in our Terms of Service.
We also won't take imported toys with lead or phthalate paints, recalled sleep sacks, high-powered magnets, small parts that fail the federal choking-hazard test, water beads and similar expanding materials, or projectile and pop-up toys.
Not at any price, not from any brand.
This is why it's worth packing carefully. Send what you'd be glad to see go. We always let you know which items were accepted, which were not, and why.
Still not sure? Send a photo to jennie@kidswaps.com before you pack.
