Selling used items in the adult space is surprisingly competitive. And there’s one used item that comes in extremely high demand: used panties.
Whoever coined the phrase “Don’t air your dirty laundry in public” clearly had no idea just how lucrative selling used panties could be.
We’ve all heard the stories of sellers raking in thousands for a single set of underwear, but for most, the journey to profitability takes planning and perseverance. A quick scroll through platforms like Sofia Gray or Snifffr reveals how easy it is for listings to get lost in a sea of lace and nylon if you’re not offering something unique.
Still… the endless tabloid stories don’t lie. Selling your panties(or other personal garments) online can be a lucrative way to make money, no matter where you are.
Some women report earning thousands of dollars monthly, making it a profitable side hustle—or even a full-time gig.
Skeptical? Let’s take a closer look.
Why Is There a Market for Used Items?
Believe it or not, there’s a thriving market of men (and, occasionally, women) willing to pay good money for soiled undergarments.
Of course, it’s not as simple as tossing your undies up on eBay and watching the cash roll in (that platform doesn’t allow it, for starters). But this niche market is much larger and more lucrative than most people realize.
Over in Asia, particularly in Japan, selling used panties has been normalized for decades. There’s even a name for it: burusera.
What’s burusera, you ask?
Imagine walking into a shop where neatly packaged used panties are displayed alongside an array of other, shall we say, personal items. From vials of saliva to soiled sanitary products, these shops cater to very specific fetishes and make some serious cash doing so.
This isn’t a fringe phenomenon either. Burusera shops are a cultural curiosity but also a thriving business model.
Now, while the Western market for certain ultra-specific items (like soiled sanitary towels) isn’t nearly as prevalent, used underwear still holds massive appeal—and is considered a relatively “vanilla” fetish compared to other niches.
The Western Appeal of Worn Panties
In the West, worn panties, stockings, tights, and bras top the list of fetishized intimate items.
And make no mistake, plenty of men are prepared to spend a lot of money for something as simple as a well-worn pair of knickers.
Western customers are generally not as kinky as the burusera stereotypes; the kind found casually buying panties from vending machines in Japan.
Most of the Western market for worn panties is found on a handful of specialised online marketplaces, and we’ll be looking at them in detail below.
Why Do People Pay for This?
This is the instinctive question/reaction of pretty much anybody you tell about your side hustle selling used underwear.
“Umm, what, do people actually buy that?!”
Yep.
And is it really such a surprise?
Panties, perhaps more than any other piece of clothing, are steeped in intimacy and allure.
For many buyers, the appeal isn’t just about the fabric—it’s about what the panties represent. There’s an undeniable mystique tied to the idea of a stranger’s lingerie, especially when paired with a backstory or hints about the woman who once wore them. It’s that combination of fantasy and reality that makes used panties so irresistible to fetishists.
It’s not just about the physical item—it’s the story, the connection, and the fantasy that comes with it.
Buyers might imagine the seller, the context, or the personal effort involved in “preparing” their purchase. The top sellers go to great lengths to create a narrative that adds tremendous value to the items on their sell list.
That’s why platforms built for this market focus heavily on personalization and communication.
Collectors vs Fetishists
Just like any collector, panty buyers often have their own preferences. Some are drawn to specific types of women or certain physical attributes, while others are more interested in exploring variety— a “sample” from a range of women.
And yes, the niche markets can get very specific. Panties from women in certain professions, like flight attendants or nurses, are especially sought after.
Sounds Pretty Kinky… What Can I Sell?
If the idea of selling used panties sounds intriguing, you might be wondering—what else is in demand?
The good news is that the market isn’t limited to just panties. In fact, there’s a wide range of garments and personal items that buyers are more than happy to pay for.
Let’s take a closer look…
1. Used Panties
The bread and butter of this niche, used panties are by far the most popular item. Buyers often have specific preferences, such as:
- Style: Thongs, briefs, bikinis, lace, or cotton—some buyers even prefer “granny panties.”
- Color: Black, red, white, and pastel tones are particularly popular, though some buyers enjoy bold or quirky patterns.
- Condition: The more “worn” the better, generally speaking. Some buyers may request items worn for specific lengths of time or during particular activities (e.g., exercising or sleeping).
Pro Tip:
Personalize your listings! Share a bit about the panties’ story—where you wore them or what you were doing. Do whatever you can to spark that fantasy into life and you’re much more likely to make the sale.
2. Stockings, Tights, and Socks
Stockings and tights have a huge place in the fetish market, while socks often appeal to those with a foot fetish.
- Stockings & Tights: Sheer, fishnet, or opaque styles are all popular, especially those paired with garter belts or worn during a sexy outfit photoshoot.
- Socks: Think ankle socks, thigh-highs, knee-highs, or cozy everyday pairs. The scent is a huge factor here—buyers often request socks worn for multiple days or during specific activities like workouts or long walks. As you’d expect, the longer you wear it, the higher the price you can command.
3. Bras and Lingerie
Matching sets, padded bras, lace bralettes, or even sports bras—there’s a thriving market for these. Buyers often like bras paired with panties for a complete set.
Pro Tip:
Highlight any unique details about the lingerie—fraying lace, a faint scent, or a small stain can make them feel more “authentic” to the buyer.
4. Shoes
Yes, even used shoes are highly sought after, especially among foot fetish enthusiasts. From well-worn sneakers to high heels, buyers are once again drawn to the worn-in look and feel.
- Sneakers & Trainers: We might not associate active-wear with sex appeal, but some buyers do!
- High Heels: Often requested for their association with glamour and femininity.
- Slippers: Cozy and personal, we don’t see these sold very often but the market does exist.
5. Other Intimate or Custom Items
The fetish market thrives on individuality, which means custom requests are very common. Some of the top sellers attract regular customers who will pay a large premium for custom requests. And there’s really no limit here except your imagination.
- Worn Gym Clothes: Always popular. Sports bras, leggings, or workout shirts that carry the scent of a workout.
- Bathwater or Soaps: A niche item, but some buyers like the idea of receiving something you’ve “used” in your daily routine.
- Personalized Notes or Polaroids: Adding a handwritten note or photo can bring the fantasy life with a personal touch.
As any used underwear seller will tell you, custom requests command the highest rates.
Let The Customers Guide You…
Many buyers will reach out with specific requests or ideas for items they’d like to purchase. Stay open-minded, but always set clear boundaries.
Not every request will be within your comfort zone, and that’s okay!
Many of the top platforms and communities have active communities, and these are a great source of ‘research’ for what you can add to your sell list.
How Much Money Can You Make Selling Panties?
So, how lucrative can the panty-selling hustle really be?
Good. Question.
Unlike selling digital adult content like videos or photos, where the same content can generate income multiple times, selling used panties operates on a single-sale-per-item model. It’s not the most scalable of adult careers that we’ve featured, but it’s certainly one of the easiest to get started in.
You’ll need to factor in some additional costs and considerations before you can start calculating your profits.
Key Costs to Keep in Mind
- Cost of Goods
Each pair of panties you sell was purchased at some point. Whether you’re sourcing from budget retailers or splurging on luxury lingerie, the initial investment eats into your profit margin. - One-Time Sales
Unlike a video or photo set that can be sold repeatedly to different customers, a pair of used panties can only be sold once. This is great for exclusivity but means you’ll need to constantly replenish your stock to keep sales flowing. - Platform Fees
Most panty-selling platforms, like Sofia Gray or Sniffr, charge commissions or listing fees. For example, a 10% platform fee on a $50 sale means $5 off your profit. - Wearing Time
Panty fetishists are often very particular. If a buyer is paying for panties worn for three days straight, that’s exactly what you’ll need to deliver—time-consuming for those with busy schedules. It’s tempting to ‘bend the truth’ in this department, but we really don’t recommend biting off the hand that feeds you. - Shipping Costs
While most platforms allow you to charge buyers for postage and packaging, some do not. If you’re covering shipping costs yourself, they’ll also chip away at your bottom line. You’ll definitely want to upsell shipping if you’re dealing with international customers.
What Do Panties Sell For?
Panties can sell for as little as $20 or as much as $100+, depending on the market and the type of product. Here’s a general breakdown:
- Basic, everyday panties: $20–$30
- Lacy or “sexy” underwear: $30–$50
- Premium items (e.g., Creampie panties): $75+
Some sellers go above and beyond, creating customized offerings (think scented or themed requests) that fetch even higher prices.
As we’ll see below, there are famous stories of sellers flogging their underwear for way over the market rate. These make for inspiring reads, but they should not be relied on as part of your business plan (or expectations).
Case Study: Sofia Gray Sellers
According to Sofia Gray’s promotional data, the average seller moves around 8 items per month, priced between $20 and $50. This translates to monthly earnings of $160 to $400, before deducting costs. We’re talking side-hustle territory with these numbers.
Don’t let those rare, viral success stories fool you. Yes, Cosmopolitan reported on a seller who made $5,000 from a single pair of panties, but those events are the exception, not the rule.
Getting Started: How to Sell Used Panties for Profit
OK, so we know the market exists, but how can we crack it?
Wondering how to get started with selling your used panties?
Here’s a practical guide packed with tips for new sellers:
1. Build Your Brand
Buyers aren’t just purchasing a pair of panties; they’re buying into the fantasy of who you are. Create a brand that highlights your unique qualities, and your used panties will rise in value accordingly.
- Are you a student? A dancer? A nurse?
- Do your panties come from long rehearsals, sweaty workouts, or late-night study sessions?
Whatever you’re comfortable sharing, this becomes your unique selling point (USP). The more you personalize your brand, the easier it will be to stand out in a crowded market.
2. Master Marketing
Don’t rely solely on the selling platforms to do all the work. Take control of your marketing and reach potential customers directly:
- Use social media (carefully!) to promote your products. Platforms like Reddit, Twitter (X), and niche forums can connect you with an interested audience.
- Join specialized groups or communities for buyers and sellers.
- Consider paid promotions like featured listings on panty-selling platforms or targeted ads on adult content websites.
Pro tip: Avoid using platforms like Instagram or TikTok for direct sales—they’re strict on adult content and could ban your account. We’ve discussed the perils of getting de-platformed. You don’t want to rely on a ban-happy platform for most of your sales.
3. Create Enticing Listings
Make your listings irresistible with vivid descriptions and creative storytelling. This is where we really let those creative juices flow. 😉
- Instead of “Black Lace Panties, Size 8, Worn for 12 Hours,” try something like:
“Spent a long day running errands in these sexy black lace panties—worn all afternoon under my tight yoga pants. They carry my scent, and I’ve included a little handwritten note just for you.”
Titles matter too. Don’t just say, “Worn Thong for Sale.” Instead, get creative with:
- “Petite Gamer Girl’s Pink Lace Panties—Just for You”
- “Mature Latina’s Sheer Black Panties—Two Days Worn”
4. Choose the Right Platform
Specialist panty-selling platforms like Sofia Gray and Sniffr are great starting points.
We suggest browsing the existing marketplaces and drawing up a shortlist of 8-12 sellers doing well. Note down what you like about their profiles and sales techniques. What can you take as inspiration for your own profile?
While general marketplaces like Etsy might not allow certain listings, these niche platforms cater specifically to this market and make it easy to connect with buyers.
5. Cater to Buyer Preferences
You might find that a certain style of panties sells really well (or a certain story behind them), but it’s smart to mix things up if you want to attract repeat buyers.
Diversify your inventory and offer variety where possible:
- Mix up colors, styles, and materials (cotton, lace, silk).
- Include specialty items like stockings, socks, bras, or even shoes.
- Experiment with niche markets—like selling to foot fetishists or cosplay fans.
There’s no right or wrong answer to what you should sell. Our best advice is to take inspiration from what you see working elsewhere.
6. Respond Quickly and Professionally
Every inquiry is a potential sale, so be prompt and courteous in your responses. Buyers may have specific requests, and addressing them professionally can help you secure loyal, repeat customers.
As we all know, positive customer reviews are critical in adult creator land. A good way to ensure you get the optimal feedback to attract new customers… is by treating the existing ones like kings.
7. Respect Buyer Privacy
Discretion is crucial. Use plain, unmarked packaging for shipping, and never share personal information. Always respect data protection laws in your country and handle buyer details responsibly.
This should be common sense. But getting it wrong is a great way to make the worst kind of impression.
The types of customers we are dealing with value discretion as a priority.
8. Stay Authentic
Panty fetishists value authenticity.
If you promise panties worn for three days, you need to deliver exactly that. Artificially “scented” underwear won’t fool experienced buyers, and poor feedback can hurt your reputation.
We’ve seen many used panties sellers try to cut corners here. The juice is rarely worth the squeeze.
9. Offer Extras
Boost your sales by offering some attractive extras.
- Include a personalized note or selfie with each order.
- Sell bundles of items (e.g., a pair of panties plus matching stockings).
- Offer premium upgrades like custom videos or live cam sessions featuring the sold items.
Can’t decide what to offer?
Check out the top sellers in your marketplace of choice. How are they adding value beyond the basic fulfilment of panties?!
10. Use High-Quality Photos
This is important for standing out on a crowded page.
Clear, high-resolution images are essential. Showcase the panties in flattering, well-lit shots. Include close-ups of fabric details and, if you’re comfortable, photos of yourself modeling the items (within platform guidelines).
11. Keep Listings Fresh
Regularly update your inventory to keep things interesting.
If certain items aren’t selling, tweak their descriptions, adjust the price, or replace them with new options.
12. Protect Your Identity
Always prioritize your safety.
- Use a pseudonym or online persona.
- Never share your real name, address, or personal contact information with buyers.
- Consider using a dedicated account for payments to separate your business from your personal life.
13. Combine Panty Sales with Other Adult Work
The most successful sellers often combine panty sales with other adult content services, such as custom videos, sexting, or live cam shows. Cross-promotion across these ventures can help maximize your earnings and build a loyal customer base.
14. Don’t Be Discouraged
Getting started can feel slow, but persistence pays off.
If your first listings aren’t flying off the shelves, revisit your pricing, descriptions, and marketing efforts. Experimentation is key to finding what works best for you.
Try to reverse-engineer what rival sellers are doing until you find the missing link that sparks those first sales.
15. Do Your Homework
Sensing a theme here?!
Study what successful sellers are doing—look at their descriptions, photos, and engagement tactics. Equally important, learn from poorly performing listings to avoid common mistakes.
Selling used panties (or other intimate items) doesn’t just have to be a side hustle— it’s a business opportunity, too.
The best sellers in this market treat it like one by focusing on quality and customer satisfaction.
Do this, and you’ll be well on your way to turning a unique fetish market into a lucrative income stream.
