“Spring cleaning” is a term used frequently around this time to talk about getting rid of old things to make room for new ones. However, wouldn’t you rather donate what you’re not using and make sure it finds a new home instead of just throwing it out with the rest of the trash?
Approximately 10 million tons of clothing ends up in landfills every year, while 5 billion pounds are donated to charities every year. This is a massive difference in number, considering that virtually every piece of clothing or textile within the home can be recycled, even if it isn’t in the best shape.
The average American throws away nearly 70 pounds of clothing, linens, and other textiles each year. Imagine what could happen when you choose to donate clothes instead. Currently, we only donate or recycle 15% of our used clothing. And where do those donations end up?
As previously mentioned, they won’t end up in the landfill with everything else, so you’re already helping the environment. And if you donate clothes or textiles in particular, it can help other people. Almost 50% of recycled clothing will end up being worn as secondhand clothing for those less fortunate or who have fallen on hard times.
However, donations aren’t just limited to staying within the United States. Sometimes they travel all around the world to help people in other places. On average, over 14 million tons of donated products make their way to developing nations where they help clothe people and families worldwide. This means the choice to donate and recycle your old belongings can make a big difference not just locally, but internationally.
If that’s not enough, choosing to donate clothes can even be used as a tax write-off. Most charitable organizations will provide you with a receipt for a tax write off for donations exceeding a certain amount. This is usually priced at $250 and includes clothing as well as other household donations.
Most if not all charity organizations are always looking for donations. There are tons of drop off stations situated at their places of business or possibly closer to your location. Some charities will even offer donation pick ups so that you don’t have to go anywhere make an impact. Used clothing donations are typically the most common, but feel free to donate whatever you think could help someone else. You never know how much one donation could change someone’s life.
