How to Buy Clothes Shoes and Personal Care Items for an Inmate

In most cases you cannot purchase clothing, shoes, or personal care items directly and send them to your inmate. The good news is that in most facilities your inmate can purchase these things themselves through the commissary — as long as they have money on their account.

In federal facilities the commissary offers a reasonable range of options. Inmates can typically purchase sweatpants, shorts, premium underwear, sneakers, and work boots in addition to basic toiletries, hygiene products, and personal care items. The selection varies by facility but federal commissaries are generally well stocked compared to other systems.

State facilities vary more widely in what their commissaries carry. Some offer a broad selection similar to federal, others are more limited. Your loved one will know what is available at their specific facility once they are settled in.

County jails are the most variable. Some county jails have a commissary with clothing and personal items available for purchase. Others provide only basic necessities and do not allow commissary purchases beyond snacks and hygiene basics. A small number of county facilities allow families to drop off approved items in person or through approved vendors.

The key in every situation is making sure your inmate has money on their books. Without account funds they cannot purchase anything regardless of what the commissary carries. InmateAid's Send Money service can help you deposit funds directly to their account quickly and reliably so they have access to what they need.

If you are unsure what is available at your loved one's specific facility their case manager can provide a commissary list or point you to where one is posted.