What you need for a clothes swap market

A clothes swap market needs more than tables and clothing racks. Visitors need clear labels, mirrors, changing screens, a staffed reception desk and enough space to sort donations before browsing. Plan drinks separately, including coffee, cups and chilled options, and check power access before bringing steamers or kettles. This shopping list covers the practical supplies people often remember only after setup has started, so you can buy or collect everything on time.

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What to bring

Grouped the way you'd shop for it, with quantities.

Furniture

Tablesqty 8
Clothes racksqty 8
Chairsqty 20
Foldable tablesqty 2
Changing room screensqty 4
Mirrorsqty 4
Stoolsqty 4
Storage boxesqty 12
Clothing binsqty 6
Party tentsqty 2

Tableware

Reusable cupsqty 100
Coffee cupsqty 50
Platesqty 60
Cutlery setsqty 60
Serving spoonsqty 4

Equipment

Kettlesqty 2
Coolersqty 4
Power stripsqty 4
Extension cordsqty 4
Clothes steamersqty 2

Kitchen

Thermos flasksqty 4
Serving jugsqty 3
Cutting boardsqty 2
Knivesqty 4
Serving traysqty 6
Pliersqty 4

Decorations

Clothing labelsqty 500
Clothespinsqty 200
Notice boardsqty 4
Tableclothsqty 10
Directional signsqty 12
Clothing category cardsqty 12

Lighting

LED lampsqty 8

Cleaning

Broomqty 2
Dustpan and brushqty 2
Mopsqty 2
Bucketsqty 2
Cleaning glovesqty 6

Catering

Groceries
- Coffee - 2 packs
- Decaf coffee - 1 pack
- Black tea - 2 boxes
- Herbal tea - 1 box
- Sugar - 1 kilo
- Mints - 1 box
- Milk - 6 liters
- Oat milk - 4 liters
- Cola - 6 bottles
- Cola Zero - 6 bottles
- Sinas - 4 bottles
- Sparkling water - 6 bottles
- Still water - 10 bottles
- Apple juice - 4 packs
- Orange juice - 4 cartons
- Ice cubes - 8 bags
- Paprika chips - 4 bags
- Plain chips - 4 bags
- Tortilla chips - 4 bags
- Salsa - 4 jars
- Salted pretzels - 3 bags
- Rice cakes - 4 packs
- Hummus - 6 tubs
- Cucumbers - 8 pieces
- Cherry tomatoes - 6 tubs
- Grapes - 4 kilos
- Apples - 50 pieces
- Bananas - 40 pieces
- Mini muffins - 80 pieces
- Whole grain bread - 4 loaves
- Cheese - 2 kilos
- Vegetarian spread - 6 tubs
- Jam - 3 jars
- Butter - 1 kilo
- Napkins - 500 pieces
- Paper towels - 6 rolls
- Toilet paper - 24 rolls
- Trash bags - 3 rolls
- Dish soap - 2 bottles
- All-purpose cleaner - 2 bottles
- Glass cleaner - 1 bottle
- Disinfectant wipes - 4 packs
- Paper towels - 6 rolls

Tips

Plan at least one clothing rack or clearly labelled clothing bin for each main category, then keep two or three storage boxes free for overflow and items awaiting sorting.
Prepare one clothing label for every donated item, plus around 10% extra for replacements. Keep clothespins nearby so category and rule signs stay visible throughout the market.
For a small drinks table, allow two reusable cups per visitor, one coffee cup per expected coffee drinker, and enough serving jugs or thermos flasks for the first service period.
Create at least one screened changing area and place a mirror beside it. Add a stool near the reception or fitting area for visitors who need to change shoes or sort clothing.
Check the venue’s sockets before setup day. Use extension cords and power strips only where they can stay clear of walkways, especially if you bring kettles or clothes steamers.

Frequently asked questions

What supplies do I need for a clothes swap market?: You need tables, clothes racks or bins, clothing labels, mirrors, changing room screens, signs and storage boxes. Add cups, coffee supplies, kettles or thermos flasks, serving jugs and trays if drinks are available.
How many clothing labels do I need for a clothes swap?: Prepare one label per item and add at least 10% extra for lost or damaged labels. For 100 garments, bring about 110 labels and enough clothespins to attach them securely.
How many clothes racks are needed for a clothing swap market?: Start with one rack per main clothing category, then add one spare rack for overflow if space allows. Keep at least two clothing bins or storage boxes available for donations that still need sorting.
When should I buy supplies for a clothes swap market?: Buy disposable or consumable supplies at least one week before the event. Reserve tables, racks, mirrors and changing screens two to four weeks ahead, and check power cords and kettles during the week before setup.

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