You've got the bin. It’s sitting in your trunk right now, or maybe it’s taking up space in your hallway. It's filled with Lululemon leggings you wore twice, American Eagle jeans that don't fit your "vibe" anymore, and maybe a pair of Nike Dunks that seemed like a good idea at the time. You’re heading to Plato's Closet Mentor Ohio because you want cash. Like, real money. Today.
But here’s the thing. Most people walk into that store at 7600 Mentor Ave and walk out twenty minutes later feeling personally insulted. They take two items out of a mountain of clothes and offer you $11.42. It’s frustrating. It feels like a scam. Honestly, it’s just because most people don't understand how the "buy" counter actually works in Lake County.
If you want to actually make money at the Mentor location, you have to stop thinking like a person cleaning out their closet and start thinking like a retail buyer.
The Reality of Plato's Closet Mentor Ohio
Let’s be real. This isn't a charity. It's a business. They are looking for "mall brands" that have been in stores within the last 12 to 18 months. If you’re bringing in stuff you bought at Great Lakes Mall three years ago, they’re going to pass. Even if it still has the tags on it.
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The Mentor store is unique because of its location. It sits right in a heavy retail corridor. You’ve got Menards, Target, and the mall all within spitting distance. Competition for "cool" inventory is high, but the standards are even higher. They see hundreds of bins every single week.
What they are actually looking for right now
If you want a "yes" at the counter, your bin needs to look like a curated Instagram feed. They want:
- Athletic Wear: Lululemon, Gymshark, Nike, and Adidas are basically gold.
- Streetwear/Denim: Levi’s, PacSun, and American Eagle.
- The "Boutique" Look: Brands like Free People or Altar'd State.
- Guys' Stuff: They are almost always shorter on guys' clothes than girls' clothes. If you have Carhartt or North Face, bring it.
Why They Said No to Your Bag
It’s the question everyone asks. "Why didn't they take my stuff?" Usually, it’s one of three things.
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First, condition. If there is even a hint of a deodorant stain or a tiny pill on the fabric, it’s a hard pass. The Mentor staff is trained to look for "wear and tear" that you might not even notice in your own bedroom light.
Second, style. This is the one that hurts. You might love those platform sandals, but if they aren't what 19-year-olds in Mentor are wearing this second, the store won't buy them. They use a computer system that tracks what is selling right now in Northeast Ohio. If the system says "bootcut jeans are sitting on the rack for 40 days," they won't buy yours.
Third, the "Smell" factor. Don't bring your clothes in a garbage bag. Seriously. It makes them look like trash, and the clothes get wrinkled and smell like plastic. Use a plastic bin or a structured laundry basket. It makes a difference in how the buyer perceives the value of your items.
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How to Get the Most Cash at the Counter
You want the most money? Fine. Do these three things before you drive down Mentor Avenue.
- Wash and Dry: Everything needs to be freshly laundered. If it looks like it just came out of a heap on the floor, they won't even look at the bottom of the bin.
- Check the Labels: Look at the tag. If it’s a brand like Mossimo (Target's old brand) or an older Hollister tag, just donate it. They know exactly which labels are from 2019 versus 2024.
- Go Early: They buy all day, but the "buy" bin gets backed up fast. If you go on a Saturday at 2:00 PM, expect to wait two hours. If you go on a Tuesday morning at 10:00 AM, you might be out in twenty minutes.
Clothes Mentor vs. Plato's Closet: The Mentor Showdown
A lot of people get confused because both stores are in the same general area and have similar names. Here is the deal. Plato's Closet Mentor Ohio is for the "young" crowd—teens and twenty-somethings. Think crop tops, baggy jeans, and hoodies.
If you have professional clothes, Ann Taylor, or more "mature" styles, take them to Clothes Mentor. It’s the sister store, but for women. If you take your J.Crew blazer to Plato's, they’ll tell you it’s "too mature." It’s not an insult to your age; it’s just about who walks through their front door.
Actionable Tips for Your Next Trip
Stop guessing and start winning the resale game. Here is exactly what to do:
- Follow their Socials: The Mentor location often posts "Most Wanted" lists on Instagram or Facebook. If they say they are low on "Guys' Bottoms," that is when you bring in your joggers.
- Bring Your ID: You cannot sell without a physical, government-issued photo ID. No, a picture of it on your phone doesn't count.
- Take the Store Credit (Maybe): If you are planning on shopping anyway, ask about the "Trade" option. Usually, you can save on the sales tax if you apply your "buy" money directly to a purchase. It’s a small win, but it adds up.
- Limit Your Expectations: Expect to get about 30% to 40% of what they plan to sell it for. If they’re going to sell your shirt for $10, you’re getting $3 or $4. That’s just the math.
Clean out that closet, check for stains, and head over to Mentor Avenue. Just don't be surprised if they don't want your middle school hoodies.