1. Normal Wear vs. Damage
Clothing that is worn will naturally pick up light signs of use. You are only responsible for damage that goes beyond normal wear.
Normal wear — not charged to you:
Deodorant marks
Light, washable stains
Slight staining at the hem of a long dress
Natural stretching of fabric
Minor pilling
Creasing or wrinkles
Dirty soles or small scuffs
Slight loss of beading
Gentle perfume or clothing scent
These are expected and are not considered damage.
Damage — you are responsible:
Large or unremovable stains
Rips, tears, or broken seams
Broken straps, ties, closures, or clasps
Missing or removed embellishments
Broken heels or hardware
Significant deforming or warping of structure
Bodily fluids such as blood — these are considered biohazards and immediately deemed irreparable
Item lost or stolen while in your possession
If you are unsure whether something counts as damage, message the Owner or Pickle Support.
2. Documenting Condition on Arrival
The most important thing you can do to protect yourself is complete your condition report as soon as the item arrives. This creates a clear record of the item's condition when it reached you.
Upload clear photos of the front, back, and any pre-existing marks or wear
If anything prevents the item from being ready to wear, report it to Pickle Support within 12 hours
If you do not document the item on arrival, Pickle may not be able to confirm pre-existing issues if a dispute arises later.
Learn more: Condition Reporting (Renter/Buyer)
3. If Your Rental Arrives Damaged
If the item arrives with damage that was not disclosed in the listing, you may be eligible for a refund. You must:
Upload photos to the condition report
Contact Pickle Support within 12 hours of receiving the item
Schedule a same-day return unless the Owner instructs otherwise
Learn more: My Item Is Not As Described
4. If You Damage the Item During Your Rental
Step 1 — Contact the Owner immediately: Message the Owner through the app as soon as it happens. Owners appreciate transparency and early communication leads to faster, fairer solutions.
Step 2 — Do not attempt cleaning or repairs without permission: If you want to try to fix or clean the item, you must ask the Owner first and follow their specific instructions. Unapproved cleaning or repair attempts can make the damage worse and increase your liability.
Step 3 — Contact Pickle Support: Let Support know what happened so there is a record on both sides.
Step 4 — Follow the Owner's instructions: The Owner may:
Approve you cleaning or repairing the item
Ask you to return it as-is
Handle repairs themselves and submit a damage claim to Pickle
Step 5 — If the item is damaged beyond repair
You are responsible for the replacement value
Replacement value is based on the item's current resale value — not the original retail price
You get to keep the damaged item since you paid to replace it
If the item is already back with the Owner, Support will arrange for it to be returned to you
For high-value items, Pickle may require repair to be attempted through trusted specialists before the item is deemed irreparable
Learn more: Pickle Protection Policy: Renter/Buyer
5. Damage Disputes & Timeline
If the Owner reports damage after the item is returned:
The Owner must report it within 48 hours of the scheduled return date and time
Pickle reviews condition photos from both the Owner's and Renter's reports
You may be asked clarifying questions or for additional photos
Having completed your condition report on arrival greatly speeds up resolution and protects you
6. Best Practices to Avoid Damage Charges
Inspect and photograph the item as soon as it arrives — every time
Message the Owner if you notice pre-existing wear before you start wearing it
Avoid high-risk situations such as heavy makeup application, smoking, or rough seating surfaces
Store the item safely during your rental period
When returning, make sure the item is dry, packed neatly, and free of heavy odors
Complete your condition report with photos before returning the item
7. Common Questions
What if the Owner says the item is damaged but I disagree? Pickle Support reviews condition photos from both the arrival and return reports to make a fair decision. This is why completing your condition report on arrival is so important.
What if the damage is small? Minor wear is not charged. Only damage that goes beyond normal use results in repair or replacement responsibility.
Can I choose who repairs the item? Only if the Owner approves. Otherwise the Owner will select their preferred cleaner or tailor. You may be asked to get a repair quote before any decisions are made.
What if I lost the item? You are responsible for the full replacement value. Contact Pickle Support as soon as possible.