WHAT TO DO WITH YOUR
UNWANTED
CLOTHING

So you’ve had that dress for a while now, worn it to death and no longer want it, what’s the next step? Here are some of the options you can choose from for your unwanted clothing to prevent it from going to landfill and reduce textile waste to create a more circular fashion industry.

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DONATE IT

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This is probably the most common thing people do with their unwanted clothing and may be the best option for you if you have very little spare time, as it’s super quick and easy to do. You can take it to your local charity shop or put it in one of the donations bags you might get through the door sometimes and leave it outside on collection day – job done! Bear in mind that the items need to be in good condition for this option, if you wouldn’t buy it in that state then no one else will and it may end up in landfill anyway.

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SELL IT

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Another option for your old clothing is selling it on second-hand sites like Depop or Vinted. It’s a little more time consuming than donating it as you’ll need to upload images of the items and post them when they’re sold, however you get the added bonus of earning money from it! If you have some spare time and would benefit from a little extra cash this may be the best option for you. 

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UPCYCLE IT​

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If you have a creative side and love to get crafty then this option is perfect for you. Love the pattern but not the fit? Alter it for your shape or turn it into a new garment completely. Love the fit but are bored of the pattern? Paint or embroider it to add a unique twist. There are endless possibilities, check out my guide on different ways to upcycle for more.

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REPAIR IT​

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If damage is the reason you’re considering discarding a piece of clothing, instead of sending it to landfill why not try repairing it? Although this used to be the norm, repairing has unfortunately become an unpopular choice today as new clothing can be bought so cheaply, but the environmental cost is important to consider too. This can be time consuming, but doing it in front of the telly or whilst listening to a podcast will make it feel much less like a chore.

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RECYCLE IT​

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This is the least sustainable of the options as many materials are difficult to recycle, so I’d only recommend this if you really aren’t able to do any of the others, but it’s still much less harmful than sending your old clothing to landfill. To do this you can check out your closest recycling facilities and see what they will accept.

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Next time you have a wardrobe clear-out you’ll know exactly what to do with your unwanted clothing!