Got a bag of clothes you no longer wear? Clothing banks can be a handy way to clear some space and do a bit of good - but it is worth knowing what should (and should not) go in them, and what to do with the bits that are past their best.

What clothing banks are best for

Most clothing banks are intended for clean, dry, reusable items that someone else could wear. Think everyday clothing, coats, paired shoes, handbags and similar. If it is in decent condition, a clothing bank is often a good option.

• Bag items up securely
• Keep them dry (wet items can ruin whole loads)
• Only donate what you would be happy for someone else to receive

What if it is worn out or damaged?

Not everything needs to go in the bin. Many textiles can be recycled even if they are not wearable (for example, torn clothing). The simplest starting point is the national guidance from Recycle Now on what to do with clothing and textiles, including what to try if an item is not suitable for donation.

Recycle Now - Clothing and textiles (what to do and where they can go)

How to find the right place locally

If you are not sure where your nearest clothing bank is (or what your local council accepts for textiles), check the council pages first. They will usually point you to local recycling points, Household Waste Recycling Centres, or approved textile options.

• Stafford Borough Council
• Staffordshire County Council

A quick checklist before you donate

• Empty pockets (you would be amazed what gets left behind)
• Tie shoes together so pairs stay together
• Wash items if needed and make sure everything is dry
• If it is mouldy, heavily soiled, or wet, do not put it in a clothing bank - use the Recycle Now guidance to find the best route

Got a question in Gnosall?

If you need pointing in the right direction for local facilities and official contacts, the parish council website is a sensible place to start, alongside the borough and county council pages above.

Gnosall Parish Council