A third of British wardrobes are filled with unworn clothes, equating to an average value of £439 per person. This suggests that a staggering £23 billion worth of outfits across the country are merely gathering dust.
A survey of 1,047 adults found that 21% keep clothes due to emotional attachment. Meanwhile, 77% said the main motivation to hold on to old clothing is the hope they may be worn ‘someday’.
The study was commissioned by second-hand fashion platform, Loopi, in collaboration with financial expert Makala Green, who stated: “Decluttering is more than just making physical space. ” She added, “It’s about clearing mental clutter and regaining control.”
Green also noted, “Many of us hold onto unworn clothes simply because we don’t have the time or energy to sell them. ” which she believes can lead to unnecessary stress, both mentally and financially.”
The study also discovered that decluttering is too overwhelming for some, as 40% cite lack of time to sell their unworn clothes, and 36% blame not knowing where to sell their items for continuing to hoard forgotten clothing.
Security is also a concern, with 22% fearful of being scammed in the process. However, 39% experience feelings of relief, accomplishment, and joy after a thorough decluttering session.
The average respondent reported making £257 each in 2024 from second-hand sales, with many selling as they need the extra cash. Gen Z were leading demographic selling online but 25% stressed their main motivation for the clear out was simply to make space in their wardrobes.
Makala Green, collaborating with the newly launched second-hand fashion platform, remarked: “Simple steps like selling your unworn clothing a bit at a time can give people a spring in their step and some extra cash in your pocket, particularly at the beginning of the year when it can feel tough.”
