With high-street shops re-opening, it begs the question of when will charity shops fully re-open? It’s estimated that there are a backlog of around 67 million items of clothing waiting to be donated according to The Guardian, and here’s what you can do.

USE OLD CLOTHES FOR CLEANING

Take old t-shirts or a worn pair of socks and repurpose them to use as cleaning clothes. It will save you money on buying rags and it’ll stop rags from ending up being thrown away in landfills.

RESELL ITEMS ONLINE

It’s an easy way to make extra cash and sell them to someone who wants them more. Depop, Ebay and Facebook Market Place are great places to list clothes and stuff that you no longer have use for.

SWAP WITH FRIENDS

Message around your friends and see if anyone wants any of the stuff you are trying to give away. Whether it’s an old jumper or baggy trousers, your trash could be someone else’s prized possession.

HIGH STREET DONATION SCHEMES

Popular retails such as H&M and Levi’s have taken part in donation schemes that allow you to drop off pre-loved clothing and get a voucher in return. It’s a win-win situation!

DONATE TO ANIMAL SHELTERS

Shelters across the UK are desperate for donations due to the pandemic. Mainly looking for old animal products but also blankets and stuff they can use. If you’re feeling super creative, you could turn a few of your clothes into animal-friendly toys.

Words by Charlie Vogelsang

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