Repair
Fix a problem so you can keep wearing the item. Examples include sewing on a button, closing a small seam or asking a tailor to mend a damaged area.
Choose the right next step
Repair, Reuse
and Recycle
Before a garment leaves your life, consider whether it can be fixed, used by someone else or directed to a suitable textile collection.
Make a commitment ↗Four different routes
Match the action to the garment
Reuse
Keep using the garment for the same or another purpose. You might restyle it, use it as a practical household cloth or turn it into something useful if it is no longer wearable.
Donate or resell
Give wearable clothing another owner through a suitable charity, resale platform, community group or clothing swap. Check quality, cleanliness and acceptance rules first.
Recycle
Use a dedicated textile-recycling route for items that cannot reasonably be reused, where one is available and the material is accepted. Do not assume all textiles can go in the ordinary household recycling bin.
A simple repair
Four steps to mend a loose button
- Check the garment. Make sure the fabric around the button is not badly torn.
- Choose a suitable thread. Use a colour and thickness that work with the garment.
- Sew carefully. Secure the thread, pass it through the button holes and fabric several times, then fasten it securely.
- Test the repair. Gently check the button before wearing or washing the garment.
Use suitable tools and ask for help if you are unsure. More complex damage may be better handled by a repair professional.
Check before you recycle
Textile collection rules vary by council and provider. Look up your local council's current guidance and confirm which items are accepted, how they must be prepared and where they should be taken.
Find recycling collection information on GOV.UK ↗Keep the momentum going
One thoughtful choice at a time.
Explore another part of the campaign, put one practical idea into action, or check the evidence behind the message.