Traders who offer clothing and other types of second-hand goods must also comply with the requirements of current legislation. This applies both to the designation of prices, terms of sale and the composition of the products, as well as to their safety.
Gabriela Rumenova, the founder of the online platform “We, the Consumers”, commented on Darik Radio regarding information about the growth in the demand for second-hand clothes.
“There should be information about the composition of clothing, blankets, bedding and the like. It should be taken into account that some people are allergic and certain fibers should not be present at all in the materials they use,” the expert pointed out.
She explained that it is mandatory to have a permanently sewn-on textile label describing the percentage content of each of the fibers incorporated into the product.
“It is from the manufacturer and cannot be removed, altered or replaced by the retailer,” she stressed.
Rumenova explained that regardless of whether the garment is second-hand, the trader is obliged to announce the price in advance on a label, as well as to provide information about the manufacturer and the importer.
The reason is that they are also responsible for the quality and safety of these goods to consumers and to control authorities. She emphasized that the requirements of the law when conducting discount campaigns also apply to products that are not new.
“In order to announce a reduction, the old price must have been applied for at least one month. If every week there is a delivery at a given site, at the end of this weekly period, the trader cannot announce a reduction without breaking the law,” said Rumenova.
Consumers with the right to complain about household appliances up to 2 years after purchase
The Commission for Consumer Protection is responsible for indicating the prices of second-hand goods and the fibers inserted in their composition, and for safety from the point of view of the composition – the Ministry of Health, it became clear already during the conversation.
The expert advised people not to compromise by taking risks with products with exceeding permissible levels of chemical elements and compounds such as chromium, nickel, lead, etc., which may be contained in zippers, buttons, appliqués, etc.
According to her, goods with a clear manufacturer and importer are safer because they can be verified and it is known who is responsible for their compliance with safety regulations, directives and standards.
