School ready, budget friendly: Preloved uniforms

Getting ready for a new school year can be exciting but it can also be expensive.

Kids grow fast, and uniforms don’t always last as long as we’d like. But there’s a clever, kind, and earth-friendly way to get what your child needs without spending too much: preloved school uniforms.

Clothes made to last

School uniforms are made to be tough. Even after a child grows out of them, most are still in great shape. That means they can be worn again by someone else.

Wearing preloved uniforms helps your family save money and helps your child learn how to care for items, as well as the environment.

Some families pass school clothes between brothers, sisters, cousins, or friends in the form of hand-me-downs. It’s a great way to get good-quality clothes for free or very little money. Lots of families do this. It’s all about making the most of what you already have.

Better for the planet

Did you know that in the UK, over 1 million school uniforms get thrown away each year? That means hundreds of tonnes of usable clothes end up in landfill. In Wales alone, around 40,000 school uniforms are thrown away each year!

That’s a lot of waste and most of it can be reused.

When we choose preloved uniforms, we help stop waste and protect the planet. That’s something we can all feel proud of.

Where to get preloved clothes

Many schools, PTAs (Parent Teacher Associations), food banks, charity shops and local groups run free or low-cost uniform swaps. Some have rails of clothes you can take from, and others have sales for £1 or £2 per item.

It’s not just school uniform that are often in these places, you may be able to get school shoes, coats, hats and bags that have been donated.

Ask other parents, community members or key people linked to your child’s school for information on where you can get those pre-loved items.

RCT Together has provided a list of places that they are aware of in RCT, where you can access pre-loved uniform items. Click your area below:

• Rhondda South
• Rhondda North
• Cynon North
• Cynon South
• South West Taff Ely
• North and South East Taff Ely

If you know of any community groups or schools taking part, please let us know.

Pass on unwanted clothing

If your child’s uniform is still in good condition but doesn’t fit anymore, think about donating it. You can give it to a school swap, a charity shop, or another family. That way, you’re helping someone else and keeping the uniform out of landfill.

If you’re not taking part in a swap or donating, there are other ways you can still help. Check out if your school is taking part in the RCTCBC school uniform recycling challenge and help your school become a champion. Speak with your school to find out more.

Little actions, big difference

When you choose preloved uniforms, you’re doing something smart, kind, and green.
You help your family spend less, you protect the planet, and you support your community.

So when you’re getting ready for the new school year, try this:

• Check what you already have
• Ask friends or family
• Look at school swaps or local groups
• Donate those outgrown items

Together, we can make uniforms go further, save money and help the planet.