Are you getting ready for back to school? Are you finishing up or just starting your back to school shopping? Getting the children ready for back to school in an eco-friendly way can seem tough and expensive. Guess what? – it doesn’t have to be. Here are my favorite ways to do your back to school shopping without hurting the environment or your wallet.
1. Go Through it All
Every year before school starts, Eben and I spend an afternoon going through his closet and dresser. I have him try on EVERYTHING, yes everything – because you would be surprised that last year’s socks never fit! We sort everything into five baskets: Keep, Fix, Sell, Upcycle, Donate. If it still fits and is in great condition, then we hang it back in his closet. If it still fits and needs a new button or a stitch here or there, I mend it. If it is a fabulous piece that just doesn’t fit, I usually sell it on eBay and use that money to buy anything else that Eben needs for the school year. If a pair of cargo pants is too short, or has a hole in the knee, I hem them into shorts. If it is a piece that can’t be upcycled into something that he will use, then we donate it.
2. Host a Clothes Swap
Don’t be shy – invite your friends, family members and neighbors over for a clothing exchange. Give each person a “ticket” for each piece of clothing that they bring. Then let them shop for the same amount of garments as they have tickets. This is a great way for your children to get a whole new wardrobe that fits and your friends and family members will go home with clothing that fits their children too. Not to mention, what a fun way to get together before back to school!
3. Get Thrifty
I have lived in many communities that have fantastic thrift stores brimming with like new clothing for the whole family. Can’t find what you need at your local thrift? Check out the online children’s exchange company thredUP or hit your local yard and tag sales. You will be amazed at the amount of clothing that you can find, if you just get a little thrifty.
How do you make your back to school shopping budget and eco-friendly?
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