‘The most sustainable product is one that already exists.’
Adam Siegel, founder of Recurate
Back in September 2021, young Edinburgh mum, Madeleine, founded the online platform Worn In Wardrobe.This site has already proved a game changer for busy, eco-conscious parents. Why? Well, it’s a way of buying and selling new and secondhand children’s clothes quickly and reliably. Unlike other online platforms such as Vinted, Facebook Marketplace and Depop, Worn In Wardrobe acts as a middle man, ensuring a transparent, fair experience for buyers and sellers alike.
If you’re keen to dress your child well and affordably whilst doing your bit for the planet, you may be interested in Madeleine’s tips!
What should I look out for when buying children’s clothes?
Buy the most well-made clothes you can budget for. But don’t just assume more expensive brands will last longer – RRP isn’t everything.
Be selective about fabric. You can find items that will last well on the high street and in supermarkets. For example, 100% cotton and denim are long lasting, but anything with polyester or a polymer mix can often look worn after several washes.
Get to know your brands: some high-end labels use dyes that soon fade. Equally, some very high-end clothes are not designed for heavy wear – their stitching can sometimes let them down!
Any tips for making my child’s clothes last longer?
I’d avoid buying anything white – stains just show up so much worse on white than anything else!
Undress your child as much as possible before mealtimes, which often end up as messy play sessions.
Try to wash clothes less – the friction from the washing machine wears the surface of fabric much more than just wearing them. Sometimes clothes just need a spot clean, or a good airing!
When washing clothes, non-bio and cooler temperatures are the way to go.
Have specific clothes your child wears to nursery and outside. This is a great way of preserving the rest of their clothes!
What do I need to know before engaging with the second-hand market?
Whether buying or selling secondhand, familiarise yourself with the T&Cs of a marketplace beforehand. Being au fait with the rules of the game is key!
Know your acronyms and if in doubt, ask for clarification – one person’s ‘Excellent Used Condition’ may not be the same as another’s.
