Only 15% of consumer-used clothing is recycled. However, with a lack of outlets promoted, and sometimes the fees that come along with selling clothes, it is understandable why the average consumer would throw away their clothes instead of re-using, selling or trading them. To tackle this issue during a difficult time, we have compiled a list of ways to sell or trade your unused or old clothes, so you can save some money and also help the environment by giving your clothes a longer lifetime.
Selling Your Old Clothes via Depop or Vinted
Many outlets let you sell your old clothes, but the most popular ones people use are Depop and Vinted. Both of these platforms can be great for making some extra money without having to throw away your clothes, wastefully.
In terms of fees, Depop will automatically charge the 10% fee on the total transaction amount. So for example, if you sell something that totals £20, Depop will receive £2. On the other hand, Vinted is free to list on. However, some variable and fixed fees apply to buyers.
If you are looking to sell on Depop, you will need their Depop app, which is available on the Apple App Store and Google Play. Vinted also has an app which you can download on the Apple App Store and Google Play.
Selling via Facebook Marketplace/Gumtree
If you want to cut down on posting fees and help the environment, selling locally is the way. Using places such as Facebook Marketplace or Gumtree is a great way to find local buyers. You can make these sales in cash which is great if you want to use that money for something else without paying processing fees.
Trading via Social Media
A powerful method of trading clothes has grown in sustainable fashion communities across social media, more specifically through platforms such as Instagram and Twitter. For this method, I would recommend making a seperate account for trading clothes, and presenting them well — to inspire someone to trade their clothes with yours.
Trading Clothes with Friends
Another way of getting rid of your old clothes and replacing them with new ones without spending anything is by trading them with your friends. From swap parties to a simple friend to friend trade, trading with friends is one of the best ways to make sure your clothes find an extended life with a new owner. The method of trading clothes will not just revamp your wardrobe but will also help the environment by extending the lifetime the clothes.
One of the easiest ways to trade clothes is by finding a friend or a person who has a similar or same sized clothing as you. To start, give a friend a shout via social media or text, and see if they are interested. If they need persuading, bring them some facts about sustainable fashion, fast fashion and how trading clothes doesn’t just help both of you, but also the broader system.
Moreover, swap parties are becoming more popular. To host one, all you need is some space, and a few people that are looking to trade clothes. You can make this as straightforward or as complex as you want. From formal invitations to rules, the world is your oyster when it comes to hosting these parties. Make sure to keep things as positive as possible by not spending much money organising it and by being clear on the terms and conditions of the swap party.
Unable to Sell or Trade
If you’re finding it hard to sell or trade and you are thinking of just throwing away your clothes. Do not. There are many other ways you can use your clothes by merely revamping them or re-using them for other purposes. If you have a ripped up t-shirt, think about turning it into a bandana or a piece of cloth which you can use around the house. Have some ripped jeans? Try turning them into a pair of shorts. Your best friend will be YouTube and sustainable fashion blogs that create excellent tutorials on revamping clothes. If these options do not work, and your garments are in good condition, you can donate them to charity. Lastly, make sure to find out how charities treat the clothes if they are not sold or listed in their stores, as burning good quality garments is just as wasteful.
