PLAINANDSIMPLE - 5 Easy Ways to Make Your Closet More Sustainable Today
The fashion industry has a significant environmental impact. From wasteful production processes to excess textile consumption, the way we shop, wear, and dispose of clothes is contributing to climate change, pollution, and resource depletion. But the good news is that small, conscious changes in our fashion habits can make a big difference.
If you're wondering how to take action today, here are five simple ways you can start making your collection more sustainable without overhauling your entire wardrobe.
1. Opt for Quality Over Quantity
The most effective way to reduce the environmental impact of your clothing is to buy less and invest in pieces that will last. Fast fashion thrives on the model of cheap, disposable garments that fall apart quickly or go out of style. The result? Constantly purchasing new items, which contributes to overproduction and textile waste.
To shift towards a more sustainable wardrobe, prioritise quality items made from durable, natural, or eco-friendly fabrics such as organic cotton, hemp, or bamboo. When you buy less but choose thoughtfully, you reduce the need for constant replenishment and, in turn, reduce waste. Choose timeless designs that can be styled in many ways, so your wardrobe feels fresh every season without the constant need for new items.
Look for brands that prioritise craftsmanship, transparency, and sustainability in their production processes. Check for certifications like Fair Trade, GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard), or B Corp to ensure you're making a positive impact with your purchase.
2. Embrace Secondhand and Vintage Fashion
A major hurdle to sustainability in fashion is the sheer volume of new clothes being produced, many of which end up in landfills. One of the easiest ways to reduce your environmental footprint is to buy secondhand. Charity shopping or shopping for vintage clothing not only gives you access to unique and one-of-a-kind pieces but also extends the life of pre-loved garments that might otherwise be discarded.
Online platforms like eBay, Vinted and Depop make it easier than ever to shop sustainably. By opting for secondhand, you're not only reducing demand for new production, but you're also diverting textiles from landfills. Vintage clothing is often made with high-quality materials, too, meaning these items are often more durable and long-lasting.
If you’re unsure where to start, begin by perusing your local charity shops or setting a budget to experiment with online platforms. You’d be surprised at the hidden gems you can find with just a little bit of patience and creativity!
3. Care for Your Clothes to Make Them Last Longer
Sustainable fashion isn’t just about what you buy - it’s also about how you take care of what you already own. Proper garment care is one of the easiest ways to extend the life of your clothing and reduce your need for replacements.
Start by washing your clothes with care. Instead of tossing everything into the washing machine at high temperatures, consider washing garments in cold water to prevent wear and tear. Air dry your clothes whenever possible, as tumble drying is not only energy-intensive but can also degrade the fabric over time.
Investing in a garment steamer can help you refresh your clothes without frequent washing, as steaming can smooth out wrinkles and kill bacteria without the harsh wear of machine washing. Additionally, be mindful of how you store your clothes - using proper hangers or folding them neatly helps to maintain their shape.
Taking the time to repair rather than discard damaged clothing is also an essential practice in sustaining your wardrobe. Simple repairs like fixing a button, mending a tear, or patching up a hole can go a long way in extending the lifespan of your garments.
4. Swap Clothes with Friends and Family
One of the most fun and creative ways to refresh your wardrobe sustainably is by hosting or participating in a clothing swap with friends, family, or neighbours. This can be an excellent way to give your unused clothes a new life while finding new pieces without the environmental cost of buying something new.
Not only does this method keep clothes circulating instead of ending up in landfills, but it also strengthens your community and encourages a spirit of sharing and sustainability.
If you're not sure where to start, many cities now have organised clothing swap events that bring people together to trade items. Another option is to join online swap groups where people list clothes they’re ready to exchange, giving you access to a whole new wardrobe without spending a dime.
5. Be Mindful of Packaging and Disposal
The environmental impact of your fashion purchases extends beyond the clothing itself to the packaging that comes with it. When buying new clothes, try to avoid retailers who rely heavily on plastic packaging. Look for brands that use recyclable, compostable, or minimal packaging to reduce waste. Some eco-conscious brands even offer the option to ship your items in reusable tote bags or biodegradable packing materials.
When it comes to disposing of unwanted clothes, make sure you're recycling or donating responsibly. Fast fashion items often end up in landfills due to improper disposal, and textiles can take years to break down. If your clothing is still in good condition, donate it to a local charity, a secondhand shop, or a textile recycling program. Many cities offer textile recycling bins where old clothes can be recycled into new fabrics or other products.
Also, consider upcycling garments that can no longer be worn in their current form. An old t-shirt can become a reusable shopping bag, or a pair of jeans can be turned into a cool pair of shorts. By rethinking your clothes’ lifecycle, you help reduce the demand for new resources while preventing waste.
Conclusion
The path to a more sustainable wardrobe doesn’t require a complete overhaul. By making small, mindful choices - like buying fewer but higher-quality pieces, embracing secondhand fashion, caring for your clothes properly, swapping with others, and being conscious of packaging and disposal - you can reduce your environmental impact and contribute to a more sustainable fashion industry.
Remember, sustainability is a journey, not a destination. Each small step you take is a positive change. And when you consider that every conscious decision you make creates a ripple effect, the impact you can have is significant. So, start today. Your sustainable wardrobe awaits!