Rent the Runway (2024)

We Clean Up Nice,

So You Can Too

We Clean Up Nice,

So You Can Too

Since our founding in 2009, we have been dedicated to creating the world’s
largest shared closet. Our cleaning experts and garment science teams are committed
to ensuring every item looks and feels excellent — every time you rent.

Since our founding in 2009, we have been dedicated to creating the world’s largest shared closet. Our cleaning experts and garment science teams are committed to ensuring every item looks and feels excellent — every
time you rent.

Cleaning & Care

Cleaning & Care

We prioritize the health and safety of both our customers and our warehouse team.
We are committed to supporting and serving the RTR community — safely.


Read more on our cleaning and care practices below, and in our FAQS.

We prioritize the health and safety of both our
customers and our warehouse team.
We are committed to supporting and
serving the RTR community — safely.


Read more on our cleaning and care
practices below, and in our FAQS.

Our Cleaning Commitment to You

Our Cleaning Commitment to You

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Squeaky Clean

Squeaky Clean

We use multiple cleaning processes, each selected for individual rental needs. We do not use (and never have used) any halogenated solvents such as Perchloroethylene (PERC).

After going through our thorough cleaning processes, most garments pass through a steam tunnel between 248°F and 302°F. We also clean our garment bags between each use.


We use multiple cleaning processes, each selected for individual rental needs. We do not use (and never have used) any halogenated solvents such as Perchloroethylene (PERC).

After going through our thorough cleaning processes, most garments pass through a steam tunnel between 248°F and 302°F. We also clean our garment bags between each use.

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We use poly plastic covers to protect the garments in our shared closet. Once garments are cleaned and pressed, they are covered to help keep them clean and protect them on their journey to the next customer.

Our covers are intended to help preserve the quality and life-span of a garment. The more a garment can be rented, the more it contributes to our sharing economy, we hope ultimately contributing to less clothing waste. We also recycle the covers– see details below.

We use poly plastic covers to protect the garments in our shared closet. Once garments are cleaned and pressed, they are covered to help keep them clean and protect them on their journey to the next customer.

Our covers are intended to help preserve the quality and life-span of a garment. The more a garment can be rented, the more it contributes to our sharing economy, we hope ultimately contributing to less clothing waste. We also recycle the covers– see details below.

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Reducing Single-Use Packaging

Reducing Single-Use Packaging

We ask all our RTR customers to return their plastic coverings and hangers when they return their rentals in our reusable garment bags so they can be recycled or reused.

Our recycling partner, Trex, transforms our plastic poly bags into wood-alternative building materials, which we think is an amazing way to reuse and extend the life of plastic. Don't forget to send your hangers back with your shipment—RTR cleans and reuses those, too!

We ask all our RTR customers to return their plastic coverings and hangers when they return their rentals in our reusable garment bags so they can be recycled or reused.

Our recycling partner, Trex, transforms our plastic poly bags into wood-alternative building materials, which we think is an amazing way to reuse and extend the life of plastic. Don't forget to send your hangers back with your shipment—RTR cleans and reuses those, too!

Our Cleaning Process

Our Cleaning Process

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    THOROUGH CLEANING

    THOROUGH CLEANING

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    Each item goes through a wet, dry,
    spot or hydroxyl cleaning process,
    depending on its specific needs.

    Each item goes through a wet, dry,
    spot or hydroxyl cleaning process,
    depending on its specific needs.

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    QUALITY ASSURANCE

    QUALITY ASSURANCE

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    All items are inspected to make sure
    they’re in excellent condition and
    ready to wear.

    All items are inspected to make sure
    they’re in excellent condition and
    ready to wear.

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    STEAM TUNNEL

    STEAM TUNNEL

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    Most garments are steamed between
    248°F and 302°F for additional
    cleaning, and to remove wrinkles.

    Most garments are steamed between
    248°F and 302°F for additional
    cleaning, and to remove wrinkles.

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    CARE & REPAIR

    CARE & REPAIR

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    Every item is checked for any
    mending required by our expert
    seamstresses.

    Every item is checked for any
    mending required by our expert
    seamstresses.

Our Care & Commitment to You

Our Care & Commitment to You

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Keeping Associates Healthy

Keeping Associates Healthy


We prioritize the health and safety of both our customers and our RTR warehouse team.


We prioritize the health and safety of both our customers and our RTR warehouse team.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

We have a dedicated quality assurance team that takes great care to clean and inspect all of our pieces so they arrive in excellent condition. This is the cornerstone of our business and we take it very seriously, which is why cleaning and repairs are done in house to ensure the highest quality.

Our cleaning experts have developed an internal database that recommends the best cleaning method for the job at hand. Our dedicated in-house garment science team uses data and experimentation to regularly review and optimize our cleaning programs and methods to enhance efficacy and increase garment longevity.

We have a dedicated quality assurance team that takes great care to clean and inspect all of our pieces so they arrive in excellent condition. This is the cornerstone of our business and we take it very seriously, which is why cleaning and repairs are done in house to ensure the highest quality.

Our cleaning experts have developed an internal database that recommends the best cleaning method for the job at hand. Our dedicated in-house garment science team uses data and experimentation to regularly review and optimize our cleaning programs and methods to enhance efficacy and increase garment longevity.

All our garments, accessories, hangers and reusable packaging are meticulously cleaned each time they are returned to us.

Our cleaning agents and practices are designed to kill viruses.

The teams in our fulfillment centers use a variety of techniques to ensure that each garment is thoroughly cleaned, steamed and pressed, inspected for quality and carefully packaged so that it arrives ready to wear. All garments go through a cleaning process. Most pieces also go through an additional steaming process which heats items to between 248°F and 302°F with the exception of faux fur, select outerwear, leather and faux leather garments, which still go through our standard cleaning processes. According to the CDC, flu viruses are killed by heat above 167°F. Every garment is then enclosed in plastic for protection and cleanliness, which we ask customers to return for recycling.

All our garments, accessories, hangers and reusable packaging are meticulously cleaned each time they are returned to us.

Our cleaning agents and practices are designed to kill viruses.

The teams in our fulfillment centers use a variety of techniques to ensure that each garment is thoroughly cleaned, steamed and pressed, inspected for quality and carefully packaged so that it arrives ready to wear. All garments go through a cleaning process. Most pieces also go through an additional steaming process which heats items to between 248°F and 302°F with the exception of faux fur, select outerwear, leather and faux leather garments, which still go through our standard cleaning processes. According to the CDC, flu viruses are killed by heat above 167°F. Every garment is then enclosed in plastic for protection and cleanliness, which we ask customers to return for recycling.

Sunglasses and jewelry are cleaned with alcohol and handbags and accessories packaging are cleaned with disinfectant after they are returned to us. Our home bundles are meticulously inspected, dry- or wet-cleaned and repaired (or replaced) to ensure every member experience meets both brand’s highest quality standards.

Sunglasses and jewelry are cleaned with alcohol and handbags and accessories packaging are cleaned with disinfectant after they are returned to us. Our home bundles are meticulously inspected, dry- or wet-cleaned and repaired (or replaced) to ensure every member experience meets both brand’s highest quality standards.

We use poly plastic covers to protect the garments in our shared closet. As soon as garments are cleaned and pressed, they are sealed in plastic to keep them clean and protect them from any elements, including human touch, that they may encounter on their journey to the next customer. Plastic sealing also helps preserve the quality and life-span of a garment, bolstering the sharing economy and ultimately leading to less clothing waste.

We ask all our RTR customers to return their plastic coverings and hangers when they return their rentals in our reusable garment bags so they can be recycled and reused.

Our recycling partner, Trex, transforms our plastic poly bags into wood-alternative building materials, which we think is an amazing way to reuse and extend the life of plastic.

Don't forget to send your hangers back with your shipment—RTR cleans and reuses those, too!

We use poly plastic covers to protect the garments in our shared closet. As soon as garments are cleaned and pressed, they are sealed in plastic to keep them clean and protect them from any elements, including human touch, that they may encounter on their journey to the next customer. Plastic sealing also helps preserve the quality and life-span of a garment, bolstering the sharing economy and ultimately leading to less clothing waste.

We ask all our RTR customers to return their plastic coverings and hangers when they return their rentals in our reusable garment bags so they can be recycled and reused.

Our recycling partner, Trex, transforms our plastic poly bags into wood-alternative building materials, which we think is an amazing way to reuse and extend the life of plastic.

Don't forget to send your hangers back with your shipment—RTR cleans and reuses those, too!

Yes, our garment bags, which are used and reused, are thoroughly cleaned after every use. Our cleaning agents and practices are designed to kill viruses such as the common cold and flu. While scientific information is still developing, we have no reason to believe that our processes are ineffective against COVID-19.

Yes, our garment bags, which are used and reused, are thoroughly cleaned after every use. Our cleaning agents and practices are designed to kill viruses such as the common cold and flu. While scientific information is still developing, we have no reason to believe that our processes are ineffective against COVID-19.

No need to clean your items on your own—we take care of that for you! Our proprietary cleaning operation is the heart and soul of our business—and we take it very seriously. Our dedicated associates are true masters of their craft, ensuring that all our pieces stay in excellent condition.

No need to clean your items on your own—we take care of that for you! Our proprietary cleaning operation is the heart and soul of our business—and we take it very seriously. Our dedicated associates are true masters of their craft, ensuring that all our pieces stay in excellent condition.

Our Sample Sale and clearance garments are subject to the same rigorous cleaning standards we use for all of our inventory. They also go through an additional steaming process which heats items to between 248°F and 302°F with the exception of faux fur, select outerwear, leather and faux leather garments, which still go through our standard cleaning processes. Once an item is cleaned, it goes through our quality assurance standards and if it is no longer in rentable condition, it is sold through one of our Sample Sales or resale partners for a second life.

Our Sample Sale and clearance garments are subject to the same rigorous cleaning standards we use for all of our inventory. They also go through an additional steaming process which heats items to between 248°F and 302°F with the exception of faux fur, select outerwear, leather and faux leather garments, which still go through our standard cleaning processes. Once an item is cleaned, it goes through our quality assurance standards and if it is no longer in rentable condition, it is sold through one of our Sample Sales or resale partners for a second life.

Rent the Runway (2024)

FAQs

What problem did Rent the Runway solve? ›

Solving the Inventory Issue

Rent the Runway said it has tackled the biggest pain point among users: inventory availability. For years, subscribers complained that the most appealing clothes were rarely available to rent.

What happens if you don't like Rent the Runway? ›

If one or all of the styles in your order doesn't fit, you can get a replacement for $12.95 (shipping plus tax) within the first 48 hours of your rental period. After that time, we are unable to provide a replacement.

What happens if you stain Rent the Runway? ›

Your subscription includes rental coverage for minor mishaps and general wear and tear. Live your life in our clothes and don't worry about the wine stains, party fouls or whatever your kids might get on you – we have it covered. Significant damage, lost pieces, and theft are not covered.

Does Rent the Runway save you money? ›

Rent the Runway is a popular option for special events like weddings, where you might need a new outfit. By renting instead of buying clothing, you'll save quite a bit of money and also prevent your closet from being clogged up with garments you've only worn once or twice.

Why is Rent the Runway failing? ›

Rent the Runway also had a history of poor customer service and delayed orders, along with a lackluster clothing selection of casualwear that failed to interest customers, and its reputation soured. Rent the Runway stalled at about 130,000 subscribers, while competitors like Urban Outfitters have continued to grow.

How hard is it to cancel Rent the Runway? ›

You can cancel your membership at any time via Your Membership settings. All cancellations must take place before your next bill date to avoid being charged for your next monthly payment. Monthly membership payments are nonrefundable.

Can you keep clothes from Rent the Runway? ›

As long as you are an active member, you can keep items for as long as you want. And you don't have to return all of your 5 items at once — each piece can be kept and worn as long as you need. Members often keep certain items for weeks or months, and send others back after one wear.

Can I return a Rent the Runway for a refund? ›

Yes! If the timing is right, you can return your purchase in one of our reusable garment bags with any rental return as long as it's within the 7-day return window. How long will it take to get my refund? Refunds are issued to your payment method on file once an item is received at an RTR location.

What is the turnaround time for Rent the Runway? ›

Choose Your Items

Try dresses, tops, jeans, handbags, accessories — take your pick! Your styles will arrive dry cleaned and ready to wear in 1–2 business days (with some orders arriving the very same day!) 3 p.m. ET to ship the same day. their orders within 3 business days.

Do I wash my Rent the Runway clothes? ›

Am I able to wash or dry clean my items? No need to clean your items on your own—we take care of that for you! Our proprietary cleaning operation is the heart and soul of our business—and we take it very seriously.

What happens if your dress is too long Rent the Runway? ›

We do not allow any alterations. Feel free to use fashion tape to temporarily tailor your look, but please remember to remove it before sending your item back.

Is Rent the Runway really sustainable? ›

24% less water, 6% less energy, and 3% less emissions on average, per garment, when renting through our platform versus purchasing new. Refer to the Resources below to learn more.

How does Rent the Runway get clothes? ›

Rent the Runway's business model is unique. Rather than just buying designer dresses from retail stores (or eBay), the two founders decided that to ensure the long-term viability and caché of their business, they would partner with designers.

Can you use Rent the Runway without a membership? ›

Definitely! There are two ways to purchase items from Rent the Runway. You can either buy it without renting it first or renting first with a membership and buying once you've received it and love it.

How often does Rent the Runway update clothes? ›

Rent the Runway updates its clothing options on a weekly basis, but mornings are the best time to browse, according to a spokesperson for the company.

What is the purpose of Rent the Runway? ›

Our mission is to power women to feel their best every day.

In 2009, we disrupted the trillion-dollar fashion industry and changed the way women get dressed forever by pioneering the 'Closet in the Cloud': a dream closet filled with an infinite selection of designer styles to rent, wear and return (or keep!).

Why is Rent the Runway so successful? ›

Their startup offered an online platform that allowed women to rent designer dresses for a fraction of the cost of purchasing one. The idea resonated with their initial target demographic. Within a decade, they had expanded their business model and diversified and broadened their audience.

What is the competitive advantage of Rent the Runway? ›

For buyers, Rent the Runway offers a unique opportunity to access a vast wardrobe of high-end fashion without the commitment of purchase. Users can rent designer apparel and accessories for a fraction of the retail price, enjoying the luxury of variety and the convenience of a rotating closet.

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