What To Do When It’s Time to Let Go
Why It Matters
Over 300,000 tonnes of clothing end up in landfill every year in the UK. By making thoughtful choices about what we buy, how we reuse, and when we recycle, we can help reduce waste, cut carbon emissions, and support a more circular future.
Can You Reuse or Rethink It?
Before you recycle, consider:
- Can you repair it?
Sew on a patch, restitch a seam, or replace elastic. - Can you repurpose it?
Use old textiles as:- Cleaning cloths
- Pet bedding
- Toy stuffing
- Craft materials
- Could someone else use it?
- Swap clothes with friends or host a community clothes swap
- Donate wearable items to a local charity shop
- Buy second-hand instead of new—it’s better for your wallet and the planet – try Vinted or Depop
- Try borrowing instead of buying for one-off outfits
When It Really Is the End
What textiles You Can Recycle
Most textile banks and recycling points accept:
- Worn-out clothes and shoes
- Polyester sportswear (e.g. football shirts)
- Old bedding and towels
- Fabric scraps (clean and dry)
What You Shouldn’t Recycle
Avoid putting these in textile bins unless specified:
- Wet or soiled items
- Clothes with oil/paint damage
- Contaminated fabrics (e.g. used mop heads)
Where to Recycle
Use these services to find local drop-off points:
- Recycle Now: www.recyclenow.com
- Local council websites: https://recycleforgreatermanchester.com/cottonon/
- Charity shops: Many accept unwearable textiles for bulk recycling, bag them up and hand them in at your local charity shop
Game Changer Tip
Keep a bag in your wardrobe for worn-out textiles. When it’s full, drop it at your nearest recycling point in one go. Easy!
Thank You
Your upcycling helped reduce waste. Now you’re finishing the journey responsibly—and rethinking how we consume along the way. That’s what being a Game Changer is all about.