Second Hand September is a campaign originally set up by a national charity to encourage people to shop for second hand clothing. We’ve come up with our own take on it with some great ideas that are easy to try.

1. Say no to new

Try not to buy any new non-essentials in September. (If that seems too hard, try a week to start with.)

Fashion marketplace Depop claims the 18 to 35 age group alone could save a collective £2.8 billion a year just by choosing second hand fashion.* 

While the original idea of Second Hand September focused just on clothing, the concept can be applied to anything you like – furniture, appliances, tech, toys, baby things, bikes and collectables.

2. Save a second hand item

Go through the cupboard under the stairs, the attic and explore the deepest, darkest depths of your wardrobes.

Pick out some things you’ve not worn or used for years. Rescue them from a sorry end by dusting them off, giving them a wash and bringing them back into use.

3. Sell second hand

Sell off a few things you don’t need anymore. This gives other people a chance to join in Second Hand September and raises some extra cash too. Double win.

Depop claims that users of marketplace sites could make anything from £350 to £5,000 a year just by selling second hand fashion.*

For anything you can’t or don’t want to sell, think of your local charity shops or freecycle scheme.

4. Swap second hand

Get together with your friends, relatives and colleagues and hold an informal swap shop. Swap something you don’t use anymore for something you will.

You could even turn this into a bigger event at your local community centre, church or school.

5. Upcycle

Upcycling involves breathing new life into an unwanted, unused item. 

For example, turning an unusual glass bottle into a table lamp or transforming old clothes into cushions using patchwork. 

Not only is upcycling a unique take on second hand, it is also fun, creative and a way of making some unique things for your home.

6. Share on socials

Sharing what you’re doing for Second Hand September on your social media costs nothing. It will (hopefully) inspire others to join in and help us to collectively save billions of pounds.

If you know someone who would enjoy joining in with Second Hand September, please share these tips with them.

* Source: Depop