Tiny Tadpoles: A Consignment Shop for Kids' Clothes and Gear in Charleston

What Tiny Tadpoles offers and where to find it

Tiny Tadpoles is a consignment shop in Charleston that buys and sells gently used children's clothing, shoes, and gear. The shop takes items on consignment, meaning you can bring in your child's outgrown clothes and the store sells them on your behalf, paying you a percentage of the sale price. You can also shop there for secondhand kids' items at lower prices than retail.

The shop is located in Charleston's downtown area and carries everything from infant clothing through early elementary sizes. Inventory rotates regularly as new consignments arrive and items sell, so what's in stock changes week to week. The shop also accepts seasonal items, so you can consign winter coats in fall or summer dresses in spring when demand is highest.

Key Takeaways

• Tiny Tadpoles buys children's clothing and gear on consignment, paying you a percentage when items sell rather than paying upfront.
• You can shop the store for secondhand kids' clothes, shoes, and accessories at prices typically 30 to 50 percent below retail.
• The shop accepts items in good condition with no stains, tears, or missing buttons, and seasonal timing affects how quickly items sell.
• Consignment periods usually last 60 to 90 days, after which unsold items are returned to you or donated, depending on the store's policy.

How consignment works at Tiny Tadpoles

When you bring items to Tiny Tadpoles, staff inspect them for condition. They look for clean clothing with no stains, rips, or missing buttons. Items must be current or recent styles—clothes from several seasons ago may not sell quickly. Once accepted, your items go on the sales floor with a price tag that reflects the original retail price, the item's condition, and current demand.

You receive payment only when an item sells. The store typically pays 40 to 50 percent of the selling price, though this can vary depending on the brand, condition, and type of item. High-end brands and items in excellent condition may earn a higher percentage. Payment is usually issued by check or store credit, and you can check your account online or by phone to see which items have sold.

Consignment periods typically run 60 to 90 days. At the end of that period, unsold items are either returned to you (you pick them up or arrange shipping) or donated to charity, depending on what you agreed to when you dropped them off. Some consignment shops offer a small credit if you allow them to donate items rather than returning them.

What sells quickly and what doesn't

Certain items move faster than others at consignment shops. Brand-name clothing from retailers like Gap Kids, J.Crew, and Hanna Andersson tends to sell quickly because parents recognize the quality. Seasonal items priced right before their season—winter coats in August, swimsuits in April—sell faster than off-season clothing. Basics like jeans, t-shirts, and neutral-colored sweaters also move steadily.

Items that sit longer include trendy pieces from fast-fashion retailers, heavily character-themed clothing (which appeals to a narrower age group), and anything with visible wear. Specialty items like formal dresses or sports equipment can take longer to find the right buyer. Pricing matters too—if an item is priced too high relative to its condition or the original retail price, it may not sell within the consignment window.

Tips for getting the most from consignment

Clean items thoroughly before bringing them in. Wash and dry clothing, remove stains if possible, and make sure everything looks fresh. Tiny Tadpoles staff will inspect items, but arriving in the best possible condition increases the chance of acceptance and can affect the price tag.

Time your consignments with the season. Bring winter items in late summer or early fall when parents are shopping for back-to-school and cold-weather gear. Spring and summer clothing should arrive in late winter or early spring. This timing means your items will be on the floor when demand is highest, so they're more likely to sell before the consignment period ends.

Price your items realistically. If you're setting the price (some consignment shops let you suggest a price), research what similar items are selling for online and in other secondhand shops. Overpriced items sit; reasonably priced items sell and earn you money faster than items that never move.

Shopping at Tiny Tadpoles as a buyer

If you're shopping rather than consigning, Tiny Tadpoles offers a way to stretch a children's clothing budget. Prices are typically 30 to 50 percent below retail, and you can find quality brands at a fraction of what you'd pay new. The catch is that inventory is limited and changes constantly—if you see something you like, it may not be there next week.

Shopping secondhand also means you can buy more items for the same budget, which is useful when children outgrow clothes quickly. You can experiment with styles or brands without the financial commitment of buying new. Many parents use consignment shops to buy basics and save new purchases for special items or pieces they want to keep long-term.

What to bring and what not to bring

Tiny Tadpoles accepts clothing, shoes, outerwear, and some gear like car seats or strollers, depending on their current inventory needs. Items should be from infant through roughly size 8 or 10 for children. Check with the shop about whether they accept items like toys, books, or sports equipment, as policies vary.

Do not bring items with stains, tears, missing buttons, broken zippers, or other damage. Faded items in good condition are usually acceptable, but anything that looks worn or needs repair will be declined. Clothing should be current or recent enough that it's recognizable as a style parents are still buying. Very outdated cuts or prints are harder to sell, even if the item itself is in good condition.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much money can I make consigning clothes at Tiny Tadpoles?

Earnings depend on what you consign, how much it sells for, and how quickly it sells. A single item might earn you $3 to $15 depending on the brand and condition. Most people consign multiple items at once, so total earnings per drop-off range from $20 to $100 or more, though this varies widely.

What happens if my items don't sell within the consignment period?

Unsold items are either returned to you or donated to charity, depending on what you agreed to when you dropped them off. If items are returned, you pick them up during a specified window or arrange to have them mailed back. Some shops offer a small store credit if you allow them to donate instead.

Can I consign items from discount retailers like Target or Old Navy?

Yes, but they may not sell as quickly as higher-end brands. Tiny Tadpoles accepts items from most retailers as long as they're in good condition and current styles. Pricing will reflect the original retail price and brand, so discount-store items will be priced lower than designer pieces.

Do I need an appointment to drop off or pick up consignment items?

Policies vary by location and season. Call Tiny Tadpoles ahead of time to ask whether you need an appointment or can drop in. During busy seasons like back-to-school, appointments may be required to manage the flow of consignments.

Can I shop and consign at the same time?

Yes. Many parents drop off outgrown items and browse the shop for the next size up or season. This is a practical way to cycle through children's clothing without buying everything new.