Sustainable Wardrobe

 Spring is an ideal time to think about our wardrobes and see what we can do to try to edge closer to more sustainable living.

When we say sustainable wardrobe, we typically mean one that helps to lessen the impact that our clothes have on the planet.  A sustainable wardrobe is loved, worn, and used again and again.

We know we cannot all do everything, but we hope we have given some ideas to consider to work towards a sustainable wardrobe.

Love what you have already – think about the laundry – do our clothes always need washing at the frequency you are doing today?  Can they be washed at lower temperatures on more efficient cycles?   Are there ecofriendly (or home made) detergents that can help prolong the clothing lifetime? Can a stain remover bring back an item to life?  Can laundry be air dried rather than tumble dried? Can a quick iron or steam refresh sufficiently for another wear?

Sometimes very simple changes can help – storing clothes appropriately by hanging them up may help retain the shape and prolong their life, but folding woollen jumpers may be better to retain their fit.  Ironing clothes at the right temperature may help protect clothing.  Do always read the labels to get the best advice.

Think and research – think what you need, where will the item be worn, what is its purpose?  What is the budget?  What fabric is most suitable?  Livia Firth suggests think #30wears – this means only buy if you can wear a minimum of 30 times. Certainly an interesting question and suggests we are buying an investment rather than a disposable item that’s destined for landfill in a short space of time.

Look within – do you wear most things in your wardrobe?   Many of us don’t!  Do you really need something new?  Do you have something similar already?  Can you repair something you already have?  Can the Repair café help mend the zip of your favourite coat or jeans? Can re-waterproofing the raincoat extend the wearability? Can an item of clothing be repurposed?  Perhaps the Repair Café can help with this too? Can the shoe repairers fix those shoes that are never worn because something wasn’t quite right? 

If you have duplicate items or things you haven’t worn in ages, or they don’t fit or gave no pleasure when wearing them think about donating to a local charity shop, selling online or recycling – perhaps items can be used to create something else – release your creativity and check out crafting ideas or use the recycling facilities available.  If you have excess sports kit or outgrown uniforms, consider passing on to the organisation so others can benefit.  High street shops sometimes have a recycling option that allows money off or benefits their charity partners.

Look outside – if you have decided you need something, can you obtain from a charity shop or from an online marketplace?  Tell your friends what you need, as you never know they may be wanting to part with something you are looking for.    Sometimes clothes can also be rented – high street shops may offer this, or you may have a friend who can loan an item for an occasion.

If new is the answer, then think about the fabrics, the brands, and the quality – sometimes buying cheap will not be the most sustainable and may not last.    Try and get something that’s sustainable.  We know this is not always easy, however if you make a small change, then that’s progress and to be celebrated.  Continue to let PSG know your suggestions on info@purleysutainability.co.uk