1. Your Responsibilities During a Rental
As a Renter you are responsible for:
Taking reasonable care of the item throughout your rental period
Avoiding activities that may cause avoidable damage
Returning the item in the same condition you received it, aside from normal wear
You do not need to wash or dry-clean the item before returning it unless the Owner has specifically stated this requirement in the item description and provided you with cleaning instructions. Owners are responsible for cleaning between rentals by default.
2. What Counts as Normal Wear
Normal wear is expected and does not result in damage claims. Examples include:
Minor wrinkles or creasing
Light deodorant marks
Minimal pilling
Slight loosening of fabric with wear
These are typical signs of responsible use and are not considered damage.
3. What Counts as Damage
Damage is anything that goes beyond normal wear and affects the item's usability or appearance. Examples include:
Rips, tears, or broken seams
Large or unremovable stains
Snags or pulls in delicate fabric
Broken straps, zippers, or closures
Missing embellishments
Water damage
Heavy odors such as smoke, strong fragrance, or sweat
If you are ever unsure whether something counts as damage, message the Owner or Pickle Support.
Learn more: Damages (Renter)
4. If You Get the Item Dirty or Damaged
If something happens, do not panic — but do take the right steps immediately.
Step 1 — Contact the Owner right away Before attempting any cleaning, stain removal, repair, or alteration, message the Owner through in-app chat. They may provide specific cleaning instructions, recommend a preferred tailor or cleaner, or advise you on what not to do.
Do not clean or repair the item without the Owner's approval. Unapproved attempts can permanently damage the item and increase your liability.
Step 2 — Follow their instructions carefully Only proceed with cleaning or repair if the Owner explicitly approves and provides guidance.
Step 3 — Also contact Pickle Support Let Support know what happened so there is a record. This protects both you and the Owner if a damage claim is made later.
Step 4 — If the Owner prefers to handle it The Owner may choose to handle cleaning or repairs themselves and submit a damage report to Pickle with receipts afterward. In this case, follow the return schedule as planned.
5. Cleaning Guidelines (If Approved by the Owner)
If the Owner gives you permission to clean the item:
Use gentle methods only — no bleach, harsh detergents, or high heat
Follow the Owner's care instructions exactly
Do not dry-clean unless the Owner specifically tells you to
Do not machine wash delicate, embellished, or structured items
Spot-treat only with methods the Owner approves
If you make a stain worse or cause additional damage during cleaning, you may be responsible for repair or replacement costs.
6. Activities to Avoid During Your Rental
To protect the item during your rental, avoid:
Wearing it to high-risk environments such as muddy outdoor events
Smoking or being around smoke
Applying makeup or heavy perfume while wearing the item
Eating or drinking while wearing delicate pieces
Using items for activities they are not suited for — for example sitting on rough surfaces in a silk dress or dancing vigorously in a fragile fabric
You are responsible for damage caused during your rental period regardless of how it happened.
7. If Something Happens Close to Your Return Date
If you damage or dirty the item shortly before returning it:
Notify the Owner immediately through the app
Ask whether they would like you to attempt cleaning before the return
Do not delay your return to try to fix the item on your own
Return the item on schedule following the agreed return method
The Owner can submit a damage claim after receiving the item back.
8. End-of-Rental Checklist
Before returning your rental:
Remove all personal items from pockets or bags
Make sure the item is dry — never return damp clothing
Confirm the item is in the same condition as when it arrived, aside from normal wear
Complete your condition report in the app with clear photos before handing the item over or scheduling a pickup
Learn more: Condition Reporting (Renter/Buyer)