Looking in your underwear drawer and thinking of getting rid of a few pairs that you don’t wear any more, but not sure what to do with old underwear?

We get you, it’s not quite as straightforward as taking it to your local charity shop - but that doesn’t mean that your only option is the bin! With the right preparation you can recycle used undies - or, if they’re too far gone, you can upcycle them.

Don’t worry, we’ll explain how to recycle underwear, as well as where to recycle them and why it’s a good idea.

From sorting and cleaning to exploring various recycling methods. So grab your worn-out undies because it's time to give them a new lease on life!

How To Recycle Old Underwear

Want to put your old Bawbags to good use?

Recycling your underwear is not only a great way to reduce waste, but it also helps conserve resources and protect the environment.

Alright, let's dive into the nitty-gritty of underwear recycling. Think of it as a little underwear spa day – they'll come out looking fresh and ready for the world.

• Sort It Out: First up, get your undies in a bunch. Sort them by material. Cotton, nylon, synthetics – they all deserve their own VIP treatment. This way, you'll know which ones are recycling champs and which need to bid adieu.
• Check for Battle Scars: Time for undies inspection. Give each pair a once-over. If you spot holes or frayed edges, it's best to retire them from their traditional job. These well-used warriors will end up in the skip if you send them to a 2nd hand clothes shop or a charity sourcing underwear for others. These bad boys need repurposing- more on that later.
• Wash 'Em Right: Before you send your undies off on their eco-friendly journey, give them a good scrub. Choose eco-friendly detergents, ones that don't ruffle Mother Nature's feathers. And remember, follow those washing instructions on the label.
• The Second Sorting: Make a pile of pants that can safely find a new home in someone else's drawer and another pile for ones that need to find another purpose in life.

Once you have done all of this, it’s as simple as taking your underwear to a local recycling centre, where they can be repurposed.

How To Recycle Old Socks And Underwear

Got a cracking new pair of Bawbags socks and now what to do with old socks and underwear?

They can both go to the recycling centre together, as they are both classed as textiles.

But, like your boxers (or boy shorts) you’ll have to make sure that they are clean before dropping them off.

How To Recycle Bras And Underwear

And let's not forget the bras that you’ll be chucking, presumably thanks to that comfy and supportive sports bra that you got from us!

When it comes to bras, you may still have a bit of life left in them, in which case you can donate them to a charity shop.

If they are ready for the bin, you could instead recycle alongside your underwear by simply giving them a wish and taking them to a recycling centre. Sometimes, you’ll find a clothes bin, typically near a retail park or shopping centre, where you can leave bras that are due recycling.

Why Should I Recycle Underwear?

Why is recycling clothes the bee's knees? It's not just good for Mother Earth; it's a game-changer for the fashion scene and our planet.

Recycling your threads is like joining the cool club of circular economy champions, where we're all about reusing and repurposing rather than giving our gear the boot.

So next time you're thinking about tossing out your old boxer shorts, think twice and take a more environmentally friendly approach.

Where To Recycle Underwear

There are recycling centres across Scotland where you can take your old clothes and give them a new life.

Not sure where your nearest centre is? Environmental organisation Zero Waste Scotland has a recycling centre locator to help you find your nearest one.

If it’s a bit of a ways away, why not make a day of it? Chuck the old undies, suss the local greasy spoon, and see if there’s a local area worth wandering. You’ve done a good deed in recycling your underwear, you deserve a wee treat!

How to get rid of old underwear

When it comes to disposing of unrecyclable underwear, finding sustainable solutions can be a challenge.

Although, there are several options available that can help reduce the environmental impact of throwing away your old underwear. Here are some to consider:

• Composting options: If your underwear is made of nature's wonders like cotton or bamboo, why not give it a second life in your compost pile? Chop them up into tiny pieces, toss them in, and watch them become one with the earth over time.
• Creative upcycling ideas: Get creative and find new uses for your old underwear. You can repurpose them as cleaning rags, hair ties, or even use the fabric for crafts projects.
• Donating to organisations: Consider donating your gently used underwear to organisations that accept clothing donations. Many shelters and non-profit organisations welcome these items and distribute them to those in need.
• Proper landfill disposal: If none of the above options are available or feasible for you, make sure you dispose of your unrecyclable underwear properly by placing it in the trash bin designated for non-recyclable waste.

By exploring these sustainable alternatives, you're ensuring that even when recycling isn't in the cards, you're still on a task to make eco-friendly choices for your unrecyclable undergarments.

Recycle Old Underwear and Buy New Recycled Underwear

Yes you read that right, And as well as recycling underwear, you might want to consider getting recycled underwear.

Well, at Bawbags, that’s exactly what we have on offer! We have a wide range of eco-friendly men’s and women’s underwear, and our quick-drying Cool De Sacs are made from recycled plastic!

In a world where even our underwear can get a shot at a second life, recycling becomes the unsung hero of sustainable living.

Don't forget the essentials: sort and give 'em a good scrub before sending them off on their recycling adventure.

Cleanliness is next to … recycliness … after all!

By supporting Bawbags, you can ensure that your purchase aligns with your values, so keep ‘em stylish, keep ‘em sustainable, and most importantly, keep ‘em tidy.