The fair market value of donated swimsuit / swimwear / trunks is $2–$15 per item in 2026, depending on condition.
Clothing Donation Values · Updated August 1, 2026
Swimsuit / Swimwear / Trunks Donation Value: What Are These Worth in 2026?
The fair market value (FMV) of donated swimsuit / swimwear / trunks ranges from $2 to $15 per item in 2026, based on ItsDeducted's valuation dataset and IRS fair market value principles.
| Audience | New / Like New | Good | Fair |
|---|---|---|---|
| Men's | $15 | $5 | $2 |
| Boys' | $12 | $5 | $2 |
Valuation data by ItsDeducted Team · Updated August 1, 2026
Based on aggregated U.S. resale-market prices and IRS Publication 561 fair market value principles. See how we calculate these values.
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Swimsuit / Swimwear / Trunks donation values are most impacted by fabric integrity, elastic and drawstring function, absence of stains or odors, and s...
Swimsuit/swimwear/trunks in fair condition may have an estimated donation value of around $2, increasing to approximately $5 for good condition, and up to $12–$15 for like-new items. The estimated fair market value for these items is significantly influenced by factors like brand popularity, current styling, and the integrity of the elastic and drawstrings. These values may support a deduction when donating to a qualified charity.
Swimsuit / Swimwear / Trunks Donation Values
2026 Swimsuit / Swimwear / Trunks Donation Values by Condition
Use the item's actual condition and relevant used-market prices to estimate fair market value at the time of donation, rather than its original purchase price.
| Condition | FMV per item | What it means | Tax note |
|---|---|---|---|
| New / Like New | $12–$15 | Swim trunks appear fresh, with colors vibrant and fabric crisp, showing no signs of wear, stretching, pilling, or discoloration; all drawstrings, elastic, and liners are perfectly intact, reflecting a 'like new' appearance that typically supports a higher fair market value, approximately $12–$15. | Condition may qualify |
| Good | $5 | A gently used pair of swim trunks has no visible stains, odors, holes, or tears, and the fabric remains in good shape with only minimal pilling or fading; all seams are strong, and any elastic or drawstrings function perfectly, suggesting a fair market value of around $5. | Condition may qualify |
| Fair | $2 | These swim trunks show some noticeable fading or minor fabric pilling, possibly a small, faint stain that is not immediately obvious, or slightly stretched elastic; however, they remain fully wearable and free from odors, holes, or functional damage, making them suitable for resale at a fair market value of approximately $2. | Check the IRS condition rule |
| Poor | $0 | Swim trunks exhibiting significant fading, pronounced pilling, stretched-out elastic, or noticeable stains, odors, or small tears in the fabric or liner are categorized as poor condition; while potentially still functional, these issues make them marginal for donation resale. | Generally below the condition rule |
These are estimated values, not deductible amounts. For clothing and household items, the IRS generally requires good used condition or better; a narrow exception may apply to a single item with a qualified appraisal and claimed value over $500.
Swimsuit / Swimwear / Trunks Value Factors
What Affects the Value of Donated Swimsuit / Swimwear / Trunks?
Not all donated swimsuit / swimwear / trunks are worth the same. These factors have the biggest impact on FMV:
The lack of noticeable pilling or fading in the fabric, common in gently used swim trunks, contributes to a good fair market value of around $5.
Fully functioning elastic in the waistband and intact drawstrings ensures the trunks stay in place, classifying them in at least fair condition ($2) and potentially good condition ($5).
The complete absence of visible stains or odors significantly increases the resale desirability, helping a pair of swim trunks achieve a fair market value closer to $5.
Strong and intact seams and stitching prevent unraveling during wear, which is essential for a good condition garment valued around $5, compared to stretched or weakened seams.
A classic and current style that remains fashionable will generally command a higher fair market value than an outdated or highly specialized design.
Swimsuit / Swimwear / Trunks Condition Issues
Common Condition Issues and How They Affect Value
Before donating swimsuit / swimwear / trunks, check for these issues. Each may change the condition tier and estimated fair market value.
| Issue | Effect on Value | What to Do |
|---|---|---|
| Minor Fading | Acceptable | Slight, uniform fading of the fabric color is common and does not significantly impact the resale value if the swimwear is otherwise in good condition. |
| Fabric Pilling | Acceptable | Minor pilling on the fabric surface is a sign of wear but is generally acceptable if not excessive and the swimwear remains functional. |
| Stretched Elastic | Lowers value | Stretched or weakened elastic in the waistband or leg openings reduces the fit and comfort, decreasing the item's potential resale value. |
| Noticeable Stains | Lowers value | Visible stains from sunscreen, chlorine, or other sources detract from appearance and will lower the resale value, although the item may still be donatable. |
| Holes Or Tears | May eliminate value | Any holes or tears in the outer fabric or inner mesh liner compromise the integrity and appearance of the swimwear, making it unsuitable for donation. |
| Mildew Odor | May eliminate value | A persistent mildew or musty odor indicates improper drying and can make the swimwear unappealing and unsuitable for resale. |
Swimsuit / Swimwear / Trunks Brand Value
Does Brand Name Affect the Value of Donated Swimsuit / Swimwear / Trunks?
For swimsuits, swimwear, or trunks, brand rarely has a meaningful impact on fair market value, as these items are typically seen as disposable fast fashion. Condition, size, fabric quality, seasonality, style, and absence of stains and odors are far more important factors in determining value for resale because these items are often worn directly against the skin in chlorinated water, which degrades quality, and consumers prioritize fit and hygiene over brand.
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Fair Market Value Methodology
How We Calculate These Values
ItsDeducted's fair market values are built from a regularly updated dataset of resale prices across thrift stores, resale platforms, and charity shops nationwide. We apply IRS fair market value principles (IRS Publication 561) to map those prices to four condition tiers.
For donated swimsuit / swimwear / trunks, our 2026 dataset yields a fair market value range of $2–$15 per item across condition grades.
- We aggregate resale pricing signals for Swimsuit / Swimwear / Trunks across major thrift channels.
- We apply condition-tier adjustments consistent with IRS FMV guidance.
- We review and update our dataset regularly — the last date that fair market value data was updated is included on every page.
- Our values reflect the U.S. national average. Local thrift store prices may vary. The IRS expects you to use prices representative of your area.
Pricing year: 2026 — Swimsuit / Swimwear / Trunks Fair Market Values Last Updated: August 1, 2026.
These estimates use the fair market value principles in IRS Publication 561. They are not IRS-issued values. Local resale prices, item details, and the donation date can change the appropriate estimate. For a claimed deduction over $5,000 for an item or group of similar items, a qualified appraisal is generally required.
For broader context on the goods people documented, read the 2026 ItsDeducted Donation Value Report. Its anonymized platform snapshot is separate from this item-specific estimate.
Donation Tax Rules
IRS Rules for Donating Swimsuit / Swimwear / Trunks
For clothing and household items, the IRS generally requires good used condition or better. An exception may apply to a single lower-condition item when the claimed deduction exceeds $500 and is supported by a qualified appraisal and Form 8283. IRS Publication 561
Condition requirement
Estimate value from the item's actual condition on the donation date. Clothing and household items generally must be in good used condition or better to support a deduction, subject to the qualified-appraisal exception noted above.
Written acknowledgment
If you claim a deduction of $250 or more for a contribution, keep a contemporaneous written acknowledgment from the charity. Keep reliable written records for smaller contributions too.
Form 8283 (over $500)
If your claimed deduction for noncash contributions exceeds $500, generally attach Form 8283 to your return. The details and appraisal rules depend on the property and claimed amount.
Qualified charity
Charitable deductions generally require donations to qualified organizations. Many national thrift charities may qualify, but verify the receiving organization and keep your receipt.
What to save in your records
- Donation date and receiving organization.
- Item description: swimsuit / swimwear / trunks, quantity, and condition.
- Estimated fair market value used for each condition tier.
- Receipt, written acknowledgment, photos, or notes that support the estimate.
IRS reference: IRS Publication 561 explains how to determine fair market value. IRS Publication 526 explains charitable contribution recordkeeping and substantiation. Donors should document the item, its condition, and how they arrived at the estimate. Read IRS Publication 526 for substantiation rules.
Swimsuit / Swimwear / Trunks Donation Acceptance
What Charities Typically Accept for Swimsuit / Swimwear / Trunks
Swim trunks are often accepted by charities when they are clean, odor-free, and exhibit minimal wear, ensuring they are readily resalable. Acceptance often depends on strong elastic in the waistband, intact drawstrings, and fabric free from significant fading or pilling. Items with noticeable stains, holes, tears in the fabric or liner, or stretched-out elastic are typically rejected or valued very conservatively by donation centers. While some swimwear may be accepted year-round, many charities prefer to receive seasonal items closer to their relevant season for better resale opportunities.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions for Swimsuit / Swimwear / Trunks Donations
What condition issues significantly reduce the donation value of swim trunks or make them unsuitable for resale?
Swim trunks with noticeable odors, large or tough-to-remove stains, significant stretching in the elastic waistband or leg openings, or obvious holes and tears are generally not good candidates for donation. These issues categorize them as 'poor' condition, making them difficult for thrift stores to resell.
How does seasonal demand impact the resale value of swim trunks?
Demand for swim trunks is highest during warmer months, typically from late spring through summer, which can lead to faster resale and potentially better pricing at thrift stores. Donating 'like new' swim trunks during peak season may align with a fair market value of approximately $12–$15, while off-season donations might experience slower movement.
Are certain sizes or styles of swim trunks more sought after in the secondhand market?
Generally, common sizes (e.g., Medium, Large) in popular styles like board shorts or classic trunks tend to have broader appeal and quicker resale at thrift stores. Styles that are highly fashion-dependent or extremely small/large sizes might have a more limited market for resale.
What is the difference in condition between 'good' and 'fair' for swim trunks?
Swim trunks in 'good' condition have no visible stains, odors, holes, or tears, with fabric showing only minimal pilling or fading, and functional elastic and drawstrings, supporting an estimated fair market value of $5. 'Fair' condition trunks may show noticeable fading, minor pilling, a small faint stain, or slightly stretched elastic, but remain fully wearable, suggesting a fair market value of $2.
How do fabric quality and construction affect the durability and resale value of swimwear?
Durable fabrics like quick-drying nylon or polyester, coupled with strong seams and well-integrated elastic, help swim trunks maintain their shape and appearance, contributing to a higher resale value. Swim trunks in 'like new' condition, with vibrant colors and crisp fabric, can reach an estimated fair market value of $12–$15 because of their maintained quality.
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