At “The Little Recyclers”, we believe in teaching kids about sustainability in fun and engaging ways! One important topic is textile recycling. Did you know that different fabrics take varying amounts of time to break down in landfills? Some decompose quickly, while others can stick around for centuries.
For example, cotton takes only 1 to 5 months to decompose because it’s a natural fiber. Similarly, wool breaks down in about 1 to 5 years. But synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon, which are made from plastic, can take up to 200 yearsor more to decompose! Even leather can take decades. That’s why it’s so important to recycle and reuse these materials.
Teaching kids about how long different fabrics take to break down helps them understand the impact of waste on our planet. Here are some ways they can help: donate old clothes, upcycle garments, and choose natural fabrics whenever possible. They can also organize clothing swaps with friends, turning it into a fun event.
By learning how to recycle and repurpose textiles, kids can become eco-warriors in their own right! Together, we can reduce waste and make smarter choices to protect our planet. To learn more about why recycling is important, check out this helpful guide on textile waste from Waste and Resources Action Programme (WRAP).
At “The Little Recyclers”, we’re here to make those sustainable choices easier. Explore our collection of pre-loved clothes and join us in creating a more sustainable future!
