Clothing and household textiles reuse and recycling

Every year, many clothes and textiles are thrown away.

Recycle Now estimates that each person throws away 35 items of clothing every year. Research from The National Lottery Community Fund found that almost one in 3 adults (32%) threw away brand-new clothes in 2025

Many of these items could still be worn, repaired, reused or recycled. By making better use of the clothes we already own, we can cut waste and save money.

Reduce

The most sustainable clothes are the ones already in your wardrobe.

Before buying something new, think about whether you need it. If you do need more clothes, consider:

  • buying fewer items
  • choosing clothes that last longer
  • shopping second hand
  • looking for good quality items that can be worn for many years

Spending a little more on well-made clothes can save money over time.

Repair

Repairing clothes helps them last longer and keeps them out of the rubbish bin.

You can learn how to repair clothing at the Ealing Repair Café. Their sessions help people mend clothes and share repair skills with others.

You can also use a local tailor or dry cleaner. Many businesses across the borough offer clothing repairs at reasonable prices.

Families in England spend an average of £16.80 a week on new clothes, but only 20p a week on clothing hire, haberdashery and repairs.

Buy second hand

Buying second-hand clothes is a simple way to reduce waste.

You can often find good quality items for less money than buying new. Second-hand shopping can also help you find unique items that are not available on the high street.

You can buy pre-loved clothing from:

  • charity shops
  • online marketplaces
  • vintage shops
  • clothes swap events

Re-home unwanted items

If you have clothes and textiles that you no longer need, there are many ways to pass them on.

Where to give clothing and textiles you no longer need

Find out more

If you would like to learn more about sustainable fashion and the impact of clothing waste, take a look at: