Renfrewshire Council

When disposing of fabrics please think about the following:

Charity and re-use organisations

Donate items to charity and re-use organisations, look on the high street for your local shop or fill the bags that come through the door

Clothing and shoe banks are often in supermarket and local car parks

If you are fundraising for your school, church, workplace, sports club or organisations such as Girl Guides, or Scouts, there are textile companies who can arrange a textile collection to help you to raise money for your cause. Not only does this generate valuable funds, but creates a great team spirit by getting your supporters to work together to clear out their wardrobes 

Selling

There has never been a better time to sell unwanted clothes and there are lots of ways to do this. With two thirds of people already buying pre-owned and vintage clothes, it's an ideal time to try selling yours! 

Sell them on websites like eBay, Gumtree and Preloved

In larger towns or cities, look out for a 'cash for clothes' outlet / agency

Or pass on items for free at places such as Freecycle and Freegle

Friends, family and local events

Ask family and friends - often they can use the things we don't want anymore

Sell items locally at car boots, nearly new and bring and buy sales

Go to local swapping events or start your own at www.swishing.com

Ask local schools if they collect clothes and textiles to raise money

Some shops such as H&M and Marks & Spencer collect unwanted clothes in-store. Marks & Spencer also collect via their charity partner, Oxfam and offer a discount off your next purchase

Some antique and vintage shops will buy second hand clothes, such as evening wear and vintage items

Give repairing a go...

If you have items which are ripped, worn or just don't quite fit anymore, repair or alter them to give them a second life.

Not sure how? Ask family and friends for help, someone is certain to be nifty with a needle and thread

Lots of shops now offer repair and alteration services - look on your high street, search online or look in local directories

Visit Love your clothes for great tips on how to make the most of your clothing, including easy to makes repairs

Recycle them...

Clothes and textiles - even old underwear, damaged clothing and faded curtains - that aren't suitable to be passed onto someone else can be recycled and made into new items, such as padding for chairs and car seats, cleaning cloths and industrial blankets.