If we want to reduce the textile waste we generate, which changes should we apply in our daily life?

We are thrilled to be part of a compilation post on Porch.com who is asking experts for their best tips on zero-waste living. Our contribution is below, we encourage you to head over to Porch.com to read more tips from other experts!

If we want to reduce the textile waste we generate, which changes should we apply in our daily life?

Guest blogger: Karina Bree, Program Manager at Sustainable Kingston

I think the first step to reducing textile waste is to use what we have before buying more. For example, check if you already have something that would work or if a friend could loan you something before purchasing an outfit - especially if you only need the outfit once. The same goes for other textiles, for example, rather than buying a new cloth see if you have a towel that could be cut down, or if someone will give you one. Personally, I think half of my towels are from family who were clearing out their closets. The towels are in good condition, all of them are soft and fluffy, and I don't mind that my bathroom set doesn't match!

If you do need to purchase an item, check out thrift stores or flea markets before purchasing new. There are a lot of great finds, and you can get some unique items. Also, by avoiding purchasing new you are saving an existing textile from the landfill.

Finally, when purchasing new, I would look for something that has longevity. This means purchasing textiles that will last. Buying clothes that suit you rather than the current fad will help, as you can wear the same items over multiple years without looking dating (and feeling the need to update your wardrobe). Also consider what fabrics you are purchasing since that impacts how clothing can be disposed.

When it comes time to dispose of your textiles, think about ways to give them new like. Offer items to friends, family, shelters, or thrift stores. If an item is too worn to give away, it could be reused as rags, as cloth stuffing to fill in a pillow, or refashioned into something new. If the item can not be given a new life, see if it's biodegradable.

Synthetic fabrics like polyester not only shed micro plastics when being washed but also are not biodegradable. Natural fibers are also biodegradable, and peaceful dumpling has compiled how long it takes fabrics to decompose by type and 1 Million Women has a how-to guide on composting fabrics.

If you're looking for more information, Rare and Fair has easy to understand information for a more sustainable, circular fashion industry.

For more information, check out this great blog from Rare and Fare.