As parents we all want our children to look good in the outfits we buy them. We spend a lot of time, effort and money choosing just the right ones. And we also spend a vast amount of energy trying to keep the clothes clean and stain free.
But, as we all know too well the new clothing does not fit them for very long. Or it is time to pack away clothing for the season that has passed knowing the items will not fit the following season. What do you do when your child has outgrown something? Do you give it away? Do you have younger children that it is passed down to?
If not, here a few ideas to help get more life out of the clothing rather than just throw it away.
Hand-Me Downs
There is always the chance the child will have a younger sibling. If you would like to hold onto a few of the outfits now is the time to think about storage. Making sure the items are clean and stored in airtight containers in a dry place is essential in making them last to be worn again.
Sell Them
For the parent who wants to make some extra money for the clothing that has been outgrown you could always resell it. There are consignment shops as well as websites and businesses such as Ebay, Remember, you will have to pay a consignment fee on the items you sell and on Ebay and such companies you will also need to pay for shipping.
Donate Them
For those who have enough to handle with the house and children and the job reselling may not be something you are interested in. There are plenty of places that will take clothing your children have outgrown and put them to good use. The Salvation Army will take them and sell them at an inexpensive price. This is extremely helpful for those parents that do not have the extra cash for clothing. Another option is to take them to a homeless shelter if you have one in your area. My children have learned that giving to those who do not have anything is a great way to help out. As a matter of fact the older ones will take care of the clothing better because they know it helps others and they want them to look good in the clothing.
When donating clothing be sure to get a tax receipt. Although it may not be much it will still help on the taxes and every little bit helps in the end.
Find New Uses For Them
Clothes that just cannot be salvaged can be used as rags for cleaning. Reusing outgrown and unsalvageable clothing for spills and cleaning and then tossing them in the laundry helps reduce the use of paper towels and actually saves money in the long run.
What to do when your child outgrows something could even turn into great craft projects! Squares of cut fabric can be used to make scented hot pads or even doll clothes. And for those of us with boys the possibilities never end! Anyone have a dinosaur that needs an outfit?
What have you done with items your children have outgrown?
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