Top five tips on reusing and recycling textiles
1. Take them to your nearest clothing and shoe bank
Recycling textiles in north London is easy, with so many clothing and shoe banks available. Both good quality and damaged items can be donated, provided they are in a bag to keep them clean and dry, and shoes are tied together in pairs. To find clothing and shoe banks in your borough, visit
Recycle for London's recycling bank locator.
2. Swap with or donate to friends and family
Swap shops, swishing, clothes swaps and frock exchanges are increasingly popular events. All you need to do is ask your friends and neighbours to find at least one item of clothing that they no longer want, then bring it to the party and let the swapping begin! You could also
contact your local council for details of any swapping events near you.
3. Make them into something new
Be creative and learn new skills to reduce your waste and save you money. Why not cut up your slightly worn duvet cover and turn it into a stylish new dress? If you need some guidance, there may be sewing classes and craft clubs which you can join in your local area.
4. Reuse for domestic use
Use floral scarves or off cuts of pretty fabric for
funky gift wrapping. Tear up old t-shirts or sheets to make rags and cleaning cloths.
5. Take them to a local charity shop or jumble sale
There may be regular car boot sales, jumble sales and fetes in your borough where you can take your unwanted textiles to be sold. Alternatively, you can take them to a local charity shop. Use The Association of Charity Shops' handy tool to help you find your nearest.
Make your pledge to donate your pre-loved shoes and textiles to your nearest re-use and recycling centre and recieve a free reusable cotton bag.