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Buying second-hand is one of the simplest ways to use fewer new resources, and it often costs less. This guide covers what Oxfam’s research claims, how to shop well in the UK, and how to avoid common mistakes.
What the research says
Oxfam published research in 2023 for its Second Hand September campaign. It reported that only about 10% of wardrobe contents are second-hand. It also estimated that if every UK adult bought half of their next wardrobe second-hand, the avoided emissions would be equivalent to a plane flying around the world more than 17,000 times, or about 261,000 flights from Heathrow to Athens. The article cites WRAP for an average adult wardrobe of 118 items. Oxfam’s retail director said UK consumers bought 32% more second-hand clothes in 2022 than in 2018.
Treat these with care. They are hypothetical scenarios (“if” and “could”), the report I read does not explain the methodology, and Oxfam is a charity that sells second-hand clothes. The direction is plausible, because making fewer new garments means fewer new materials, but I could not verify the numbers.
Where to buy in the UK
- Charity shops: good for basics, knitwear and coats. Sales support the charity.
- Online resale apps and marketplaces: useful for specific brands and sizes, but check seller ratings and returns.
- Vintage and consignment shops: can be pricier but offer curated quality.
- Swaps with friends or community events: free and often good for children’s clothes.
How to shop well
- Go with a list. A cheap item you will not wear is still waste.
- Check fabric content. Natural fibres often last well; see my organic cotton guide and socks comparison.
- Inspect seams, underarms, zips and fabric thinning.
- Check smell and stains. Some marks come out; some do not.
- Try things on or know the measurements, because returns can be limited.
- Work out the likely cost per wear; my cost per wear guide shows how.
Caring for second-hand clothes
Wash new-to-you clothes following the care label, and check for moth damage before adding them to your wardrobe; see how to store clothes. Small flaws can often be repaired; see basic repair.
When second-hand is not the answer
Second-hand does not help if you buy more than you need. The most sustainable item is often the one you already own, a point WRAP makes through its Love Your Clothes campaign. For buying new when you need to, see my UK brands guide and greenwashing guide.
What I could not verify
- Oxfam’s methodology and emission factors for the flight comparisons.
- The source of the 32% growth figure, which appears as a quote in the article.
- Current UK second-hand market size.
Source
- Fundraising.co.uk: Oxfam launches Second Hand September with new research on environmental benefits of preloved fashion (30 August 2023)
This article is general information, not professional advice. I have not tested any products. Figures are quoted from the sources above and may have changed.