If you’re a local here in PDX and you’re looking for a way to cut down on new clothing consumption then you may want to check out PDXSwap. I just read about this group in the latest issue of Portland family Magazine, and while I haven’t tried the PDX group I did have a group like this in another state I lived in and it was pretty cool. PDXSwap is a group of Portland Metro area residents who get together on a regular basis for a clothing swap. According to the group’s website, PDXSwap is the only regular clothing swap in the Portland Metro area.
Why attend a swap?
- Used clothing is a great tactic for going green locally. You’re giving older, but still in good shape clothing a home vs. having a bunch of clothes end up in a landfill. Plus this saves on resources needed to manufacture new clothes AND best of all it saves you money.
- Attending a swap can have benefits over a thrift store or garage sale though because you don’t have to spend as much time searching. PDXSwap, for example, is set up in different groups by size. I.e. if you know you’re not a size 3 you don’t have to attend the size 3 swap.
- You can meet other green-minded pals at a swap group.
According to PDXSwap, “All are welcome to join.” The group asks that you only bring swap clothing that’s in “Wearable condition (no rips, tears or visible stains), and only in sizes specified for the groups to which you’re attending (see the Swap Sizes page for more details). Petite sizes and junior equivalents are very much welcome, as are shoes, belts and other accessories.”
Visit PDXSwap to learn more then clean out your closet and get swapping.
PS if you’re not a PDX local: Look up “name of your city + clothing swap” online and if you can’t find an established swap group then you can learn how to organize your own swap group in your town for clothes, toys, books and more.
