Spring Cleaning: Social Enterprises In Singapore To Donate Your Old Clothes To
Before you donate your clothes to the Salvation Army, consider these alternative avenues for your spring-cleaning spree.
By Cherry Tan, Tricia Teong ,
If you're moving house or just looking to declutter your wardrobe, you've come to the right place. But before you toss your forgotten fits to The Salvation Army, hold up. The organisation often gets overwhelmed with donations especially during festive seasons, turning into a dumping ground for unwanted and damaged goods (that's why it's good to do it off-peak seasons and you can stay organised and come home to a neat and tidy space).
READ MORE: You Can Shop Less And Not Run Out Of Wardrobe Ideas
Fun fact (or not): a previous news report revealed that only eight to 10 per cent of donated clothes actually make it to their shelves. Don’t worry, though—we’ve got you covered with a list of alternative spots to donate your pre-loved clothes, all while doing some good.
What is it: Spotted the iconic yellow bins around Singapore? These textile recycling bins were introduced by Cloop, a circular fashion social enterprise devoted to reducing fashion overconsumption. In line with their goal of doubling Singapore’s textile recycling rate, they’ve planted as many as 470 bins islandwide (decluttering your closet has never been so easy). Cloop empowers consumers to “close the fashion loop”, supporting sustainable shopping alternatives including Fashion Swap!, Open Wardrobe (an honour-system thrift store), Curated Bag (personal shopping in a bag), and Bag It! (fill-a-bag thrift event).
When it started: The textile recycling programme kicked off in July 2022.
Its USP: Cloop collaborates with an ISO accredited recycling partner, Life Line Clothing, that practices a zero-waste-to-landfills process.
The do-good factor: All donations received through the Cloop’s white collection boxes located in their headquarters at City Sprouts (Henderson) and sorting facility at APSN Centre for Adults go through a Cloop Cycle, ensuring nothing goes to waste. Each item is thoroughly checked and lovingly curated for swap or resale, with as much as 20% of the proceeds from each event channeled to a good cause each time. Items not fit for reuse are upcycled or repurposed, while appropriate items are also blessed to organisations and collectives with specific needs.
What it accepts: For those decluttering items in good condition, look for the white collection boxes. Only clothes, bags, shoes, accessories that are clean, of good quality and in great condition are accepted. These items will then be circulated locally through their various initiatives.
The yellow Cloop textile recycling bins accept a wider range of items as long as they are clean, dry and in reusable condition. These include clothes, bags, shoes, accessories, belts, hats or caps, clean bras and underwear, toys, plushies, bedsheets and towels. Cloop’s ISO-accredited recycling partner will collect and sort the materials into more than 500 categories to ensure the best outcome and zero-waste-to-landfills. These may include resale, reuse, upcycle and recycle internationally.
What it doesn’t accept: Blankets, table cloths, curtains, cushion covers, duvet, bath/floor mats, rugs, luggages, furnitures, strollers, books, mattresses, pillows, tumblers/water bottles, and fragile ornaments are not to be left in the recycling bins.
Where to drop off your clothes: You can find the white collection boxes at two locations. Head down to Cloop HQ at City Sprouts, located in 102 Henderson Road, open daily from 10AM-10PM including Public Holidays. Otherwise, drop by the APSN Cafe for All, located within Kembangan Chai Chee Community Hub, in 11 Jalan Ubi between Monday to Friday from 9.30AM-7.30PM, or from 9.30AM-2.30PM on Saturday. Be sure to do a quick search on Google to know if the cafe is open before heading down.
Cloop has also created a map and list of all the yellow recycling bins across the island for easy drop-offs.
What is it: H&M's Garment Collecting Programme is a global initiative encouraging customers to recycle their unwanted clothing and textiles in a bid to reduce textile waste. As the largest programme of its kind, customers can drop off their garments with ease at H&M stores worldwide. These items are responsibly managed by professional textile sorting companies like REMONDIS and Looper Textile Co. following the criteria set out in the EU waste hierarchy, prioritising reuse of garments as second-hand clothes. Old clothing and textiles that cannot be resold are repurposed or recycled into new products and fibres.
When it started: 2013
Its USP: Aside from the fact that H&M's programme is available in-store year-round, another unique plus point is its openness to accepting clothes from any brand no matter whether they’re torn, worn-out or stained. On top of that, the company also provides vouchers and points for its members who participate in the garment collecting programme. Turn in one bag of garments to receive a voucher entitling you to 15% off 1 item of your choice on your next purchase (with a limit of 5 vouchers per month) and 40 points for H&M members to unlock special offers and perks.
The do-good factor: By keeping textiles out of landfills, the programme helps reduce pollution, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and conserve natural resources, contributing to a healthier environment. The programme also encourages a culture of sustainable habits and educates consumers on the importance of recycling and extending the life of clothing through its in-store messaging, campaigns and online communication. Sustainable actions are not only rewarded, but democratised, encouraging widespread adoption.
What it accepts: Garments from any brand and in any condition, as well as household textiles like bed linens, towels, and curtains. All items should be clean and dry before donation.
What it doesn’t accept: Shoes, bags and accessories.
Where to drop off your clothes: Designated garment collection boxes are located in all H&M stores in Singapore.
What is it: Uniqlo piloted this sustainable fashion initiative to collect and clean quality, lightly worn Uniqlo apparel from stores across the island through its RE.Uniqlo initiative. These lightly worn items are then washed, pressed, and sorted before being sent to partner social service organisations and family service centres for redistribution to their beneficiaries.
When it started: May 2022
Its USP: Beyond meeting the basic needs of its beneficiaries, Uniqlo’s Neighbours Helping Neighbours initiative also strengthens social networks. Its easy accessibility has led many beneficiaries to report feeling treated with dignity and respect.
The do-good factor: A study conducted by Singapore Management University’s Lien Centre for Social Innovation, in partnership with Uniqlo, revealed tangible boosts in perceived confidence and community support among beneficiaries of the Neighbours Helping Neighbours programme – paving the way for more similar initiatives in the fashion space.
What it accepts: Only lightly worn Uniqlo items are accepted for recycling, except for innerwear. Please ensure that you wash your clothes prior to donation to ensure all apparel are delivered in the best possible condition.
What it doesn’t accept: Innerwear.
Where to drop off your clothes: Approach Uniqlo staff at any outlet during operating hours to donate your preloved Uniqlo apparel.
What is it: Swapaholic is a B-Corp certified circular fashion service that empowers consumers to swap, sell, and buy pre-loved and ethical fashion effortlessly.
When it started: January 2017
Its USP: Swapaholic offers consumers diverse ways to embrace circular fashion and be kind to their style and the planet. Swapaholic aims to provide a no-compromise sustainable alternative to shopping through initiatives such as its online peer-to-peer marketplace, engaging events across Singapore, and a retail presence at Capitol Singapore, making sustainable fashion easily accessible to everyone.
The do-good factor: Thirty per cent of Swapaholic’s workforce comprises women from financially disadvantaged backgrounds, providing them with flexible job opportunities to promote financial independence. Through the Swapaholic Gives Back initiative, the social enterprise encourages fashion donations and organizes events that support charities, students, and non-profits.
What it accepts: Clothes for adults and children of all genders, accessories, footwear, bags, and even children’s toys and books. For detailed donation guidelines, refer to its website. Swapaholic is currently collecting clothing donations for its #LookingLit Fundraiser in support of the Singapore Book Council (SBC), a registered charity. Fashion donations will be accepted until 31 January 2025, and the items will be featured in a sale in March 2025. All proceeds will go towards SBC's programs supporting the literary arts.
What it doesn’t accept: Items such as personal items, soiled and wet garments, and corporate-branded memorabilia are not accepted to maintain quality and hygiene standards. Please read the full guidelines here.
Where to drop off your clothes: Swapaholic, B2-36 Capitol Singapore
What is it: MINDS Shop is a social enterprise co-managed by individuals with intellectual disabilities, providing pre-vocational training in retail and customer service for MINDS clients. MINDS Shop carries a wide variety of curated pre-loved clothes, collectibles, and household items at reasonable prices.
When it started: MINDS Shop’s first outlet opened in 2000 at Margaret Drive
Its USP: Staffed by MINDS clients, who are individuals with intellectual disabilities, the MINDS Shop provides an invaluable opportunity for these clients to interact with customers, helping to build their social competencies and confidence.
The do-good factor: All proceeds from the sale of items go to MINDS clients as a monthly allowance. Donating items creates work opportunities for MINDS clients, as they apply their training in a practical setting. Interacting with customers also helps build their social competencies and confidence.
What it accepts: Apparel, shoes (brand new), fashion accessories, decorative display items, household items, books, electronics (brand new in original packaging), and toys in good condition. Refer to the shop’s FAQ page for more information.
What it doesn’t accept: Undergarments, used electronics, bulky furniture, pre-loved soft toys, used shoes, and religious items.
Where to drop off your clothes: Donations are only accepted at MINDS Shop @ Margaret Drive (800 Margaret Drive, Singapore 148310) from Monday to Wednesday, 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. The store is closed on public holidays. Visit the MINDS website for a full list of outlets.
What is it: Refash gives new life to millions of pre-loved clothing items, offsetting the environmental and financial cost of fashion. The organization does this by purchasing your pre-loved items and paying you back in cash or credit. 4o mini
When it started: 2016
Its USP: To minimize waste in landfills, rejected items are sold to Refash’s network of resellers at a nominal fee through its Recovery Program. This serves as an alternative channel to reintegrate as many items as possible into the circular economy.
The do-good factor: The proceeds from Refash’s Recovery Program are donated on a periodic basis to charitable organisations like Daughters of Tomorrow and WWF Singapore. Refash also regularly partners with like-minded organisations, such as MINDS and The Salvation Army, for charity sales.
What it accepts: Womenswear and menswear from any brand. Refer to the Refash website for more details.
What it doesn’t accept: Shoes are currently not accepted.
Where to drop off your clothes: Drop off your clothes (minimum 10 pieces) at selected Refash stores during their operating hours. Refer to the Refash website for the full list of stores. You can also arrange for a courier pick-up for selected brands.
What is it: An initiative by the Singapore Council of Women’s Organisations, New2U encourages customers to steer away from fast fashion brands and embrace circular fashion.
When it started: May 2000
Its USP: New2U regularly hosts pop-up bazaars, and if you’re lucky, you might find designer labels like Celine and Kate Spade, often at discounts of up to 80 per cent off retail prices.
The do-good factor: Proceeds from the store go towards SCWO initiatives, such as the Star Shelter, Singapore’s only secular shelter dedicated to protecting women and children survivors of family violence.
What it accepts: Dresses, blouses, jackets, skirts (no pants or shorts), bags, jewellery, working watches, figurines, collectibles, toys, board games, kitchenware, and home decor. Due to high volume, New2U can accept up to two bags or boxes per person. For the latest updates, check its website or Instagram.
What it doesn’t accept: Furniture, soft toys, electrical appliances, strollers, child safety equipment, bed sheets, and carpets.
Where to drop off your clothes: Donations can be dropped off at SCWO Centre (96 Waterloo Street) is open from Monday to Friday, 9:00am to 6:00pm. The thrift shop opens from Monday to Friday, 10:30am to 2:30pm, and the last Sunday of the month, 11:00am to 2:00pm.
What is it: The Fashion Pulpit is a social enterprise that encourages consumers to extend the lifespan of fashion items and minimize textile waste through clothing swapping.
When it started: Founded in 2018 by Raye Padit, a former bespoke fashion designer.
Its USP: Apart from being one of the earliest fashion-swapping platforms here, The Fashion Pulpit also provides mending and upcycling services. While you’re encouraged to swap, feel free to just buy anything that catches your eye.
The do-good factor: The Fashion Pulpit team publishes open-source materials on fashion sustainability, such as its first-ever impact report and wardrobe study, to promote socio-environmental education and awareness in the field of fashion.
What it accepts: Clothing of any size, brand and style, as well as accessories, bags, and shoes in good condition.
What it doesn't accept: For hygiene reasons, it does not accept undergarments, swimwear, sportswear, earrings (unless they’re brand new with tags), socks, any organizational items, hosiery and costumes.
Where to drop off your clothes: The Fashion Pulpit is located at the Circular Fashion Hub (298 Jln Besar, #04-00 Allenby House, Singapore 208959). It is open from Tuesday to Friday, 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM, and Saturday to Sunday, 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The store is closed on Mondays and public holidays.
What is it: Kloth Circularity is an entirely women-led social enterprise that aspires to catalyze the textiles, clothing, and plastics circular economy in Malaysia, Singapore and Australia.
When it started: December 2013
Its USP: Besides recycling, Kloth Circularity also supplies sustainably made textiles that can be customized into corporate uniforms, apparel, merchandise, and gifts. Keep an eye on its Instagram for cool upcycled creations available for purchase.
The do-good factor: The Kloth Woman Up movement creates job opportunities for women, particularly those from vulnerable communities. It has also collaborated with the District South Mosques on the Kloth Woman Up x Thread Up programme, which aims to empower vulnerable Muslim women facing economic hardship by equipping them with creative sewing skills and training to sew upcycled merchandise and gifts. These are available for purchase on its online store and can also be customised for orders.
What it accepts: Clothes for all genders, undergarments, accessories, footwear, bags, light household textiles, children’s toys, and fabric remnants (at least 1 metre long).
What it doesn't accept: Soiled and wet items, furniture, electrical appliances, fabric remnants less than 1 metre in size, shredded clothing, racks and mattresses.
Where to drop off your clothes: At any Kloth bins at various locations islandwide – refer to this map to find the nearest one.
What is it: The Barn is a volunteer-run thrift shop, started by Cornerstone Community Services. Pre-loved goods are donated by the public and sold back to the community at an affordable price.
When it started: March 2013
Its USP: The Barn’s recently launched Bespoke collection on Carousell is a haven for shoppers, featuring chic luxury pieces priced affordably from $50. Expect brands such as Yves Saint Laurent, Valentino, Louis Vuitton, Marc Jacobs, and more!
The do-good factor: All proceeds go to welfare and wellness services run by Cornerstone Community Services, such as its food care and youth mentoring programmes, for vulnerable groups.
What it accepts: Clothes for all genders, accessories, shoes, and sports equipment (small to medium-sized). The Barn is currently in need of more men’s clothes and accessories for the migrant community. Refer to the complete list here.
What it doesn't accept: Children’s clothes, big and bulky items, used undergarments, linen, and soft toys. Refer to the complete list here.
Where to drop off your clothes: At any of The Barn locations during opening hours: #01-11/12 The Odeon Katong, Block 591A Ang Mo Kio Street 5, and 27 Penjuru Walk.
What is it: ItsRainingRaincoats is a local charity that aims to build bridges between migrant workers and Singapore residents by improving migrant worker welfare.
When it started: Founded in 2015 by Dipa Swaminathan, a lawyer who had been assisting the migrant community in her personal capacity before founding the charity.
Its USP: ItsRainingRaincoats runs Singapore's first and only free shop for migrant workers, where they can take available items for free. In addition, ItsRainingRaincoats is also known for its Makan with Migrant Workers programme, where Singapore residents can host migrant workers in their homes for a meal. There’s no better way to build connections than over a warm meal.
The do-good factor: ItsRainingRaincoats runs various initiatives geared towards migrant worker safety and welfare, such as English classes, donation drives for safety shoes, and laptop collection drives to help migrant workers in upskilling.
What it accepts: Men’s clothing and toiletries, luggage, home linen, electrical appliances, sports equipment, and bicycles. Please ensure that all items are in pristine condition. Refer to its website for more details.
What it doesn't accept: Undergarments, women’s and children’s clothing, apparel with school logos, and items with political and religious designs.
Where to drop off your clothes: Drop-off points are located in the west, central, and east areas of Singapore. Refer to its website for more detailed instructions.
What is it: Re-store is a social enterprise that promotes sustainability through upcycling textiles into well-designed bags and accessories.
When it started: Founded in November 2020 by sisters Karen and Veronica Teo, along with Karen’s daughter, Claudia Yong.
Its USP: Re-store upcycles textiles such as denim and premium upholstery, all sourced within Singapore, to create everyday bags and accessories that complement any outfit. Visit its online shop to view their collections – there’s even one for pets.
The do-good factor: Re-store teams up with social workers and welfare agencies to employ women in marginalized communities, including persons with disabilities. It also offers its seamstresses flexible work arrangements to accommodate their varying physical and social needs.
What it accepts: Re-store accepts only pre-loved denim in larger sizes, which will be upcycled into lifestyle accessories such as bags and other pet accessories.
What it doesn't accept: Shorts, T-shirts, mini skirts, and any clothing in XS or S sizes (because Re-store needs larger cuts of clothing.)
Where to drop off your clothes: Contact Re-store via IG DM or e-mail (hello@re-store.sg) to arrange your drop off in advance.
What is it: A textile recycling service that aims to give textiles a second life and promote the 3 R’s we grew up learning – reduce, reuse, and recycle.
When it started: 2017
Its USP: Greensquare has a clear ambition – to double the percentage of recycled textiles by 2030. It also sells collected recyclables to secondhand textile importers in developing countries to continue providing free collection services and outreach programs.
The do-good factor: Greensquare conducts all recycling programs in schools for free, including those at Yale-NUS and Victoria Junior College.
What it accepts: Clean and wearable clothes, shoes, accessories, and laundered household linen.
What it doesn't accept: Toys, soft toys, fabric, books, kitchenware, used undergarments, used socks, pillows, comforters, and stationery.
Where to drop off your clothes: Greensquare has multiple collection points islandwide. You can refer to its website for a list of locations. It also offers an islandwide doorstep collection service available for a flat fee of $3 per collection. Schedule yours here.
What is it: A social enterprise founded by the Society of St Vincent de Paul (SSVP) that provides good, affordable, and quality thrifting to customers.
When it started: September 2019
Its USP: Besides selling quality goods at affordable prices, SSVP Shop also has an 'Upcycled with Love' arm where volunteers handcraft and upcycle donated items, such as turning men’s ties into belts. Visit its shop at 501 Geylang Road to check out what’s in-store.
The do-good factor: SSVP Shop’s net proceeds go to the Society of St. Vincent De Paul’s community welfare programmes for 3,000 low-income and disadvantaged beneficiaries, supporting its mission of giving them a better life and future.
What it accepts: Bags (except laptop bags), small leather goods (wallets, pouches, clutches), accessories (jewellery, watches, belts, etc.). SSVP Shop is temporarily not accepting apparel. Due to space constraints, the shop is only taking in two shopping bags of donations per person. Refer to its website for the latest updates.
What it doesn't accept: Bulky items, shoes, books, stuffed toys, or any soiled, broken and faulty items.
Where to drop off your clothes: Call 6974-2480 or drop it a DM on Instagram or Facebook to make an appointment.