Fit, care and budget
Second-hand shopping at Kantamanto: tips to find good clothes
By sneakersInn team · Updated
To find good clothes second-hand at Kantamanto or any Ghanaian second-hand market, go early when new bales are opened, know your measurements, check every piece carefully for fabric quality, seams, stains and working zips, focus on items that age well (jeans, jackets, knits and quality shirts), and plan to wash and tailor what you buy. Patience is the main skill.
What is Kantamanto?
Kantamanto, in central Accra, is one of the largest second-hand clothing markets in the world. The OR Foundation estimates that about 15 million used garments arrive there each week, and that roughly 40% of each bale can't be sold (FashionUnited, 2024). Buying well-made second-hand pieces you'll actually wear supports traders and keeps good clothes in use.
What should I look for?
| Look for | Why |
|---|---|
| Natural fibres: cotton, linen, wool | Last longer, breathe |
| Dense, opaque fabric | Better quality |
| Straight, small stitches | Well made |
| Working zips and all buttons | Avoid repairs |
| No stains at collars and underarms | Hard to remove |
| Denim, jackets, knits, quality shirts | Age well |
What should I avoid?
- Stretched-out knits and tees
- Shiny, worn suit fabric
- Strong musty smells that won't wash out
- Pieces that don't fit "but might after tailoring" in the shoulders
How do I check fit without a changing room?
Bring your measurements and a tape. Measure garments flat against a shirt or trousers you know fit. See how to measure yourself for clothes.
What should I do after buying?
Wash everything before wearing, ideally twice, and air it in the shade. Take pieces that need adjusting to a tailor. See how to work with a tailor in Accra.
How do I negotiate?
Be friendly, ask the price, offer a little lower and buy several pieces from one trader for a better deal. Traders know their stock; ask them to show you their best items.
Questions
Is second-hand better than new?
For quality on a budget, it can be. See quality vs quantity.
What should I buy new?
Underwear, socks and, usually, shoes. See how to build a wardrobe from scratch on a budget.