Bamboo clothing for people who pass clothes on

Short answer: Outer layers can be passed on if they are whole and clean. Underwear and socks cannot, whatever their condition. That is a practical rather than a formal rule.

Outer layers go on

T-shirts, jumpers and trousers in good condition can be used by others. Wash them first. See bamboo T-shirts for men.

Underwear does not

Underwear and socks are not passed on, however little they have been used. See bamboo underwear for men.

Wash first

Even clean clothing should be washed before it is passed on. It is a simple courtesy. See washing and care.

Check the condition

Hold the piece up to the light and pull at the edges. If it is worn thin or slack, it belongs in textile waste. See bamboo underwear for women.

Sort what cannot be used

Worn out clothing becomes cloths or goes into textile waste following local authority instructions. See all bamboo socks for men.

Frequently asked questions

Can you pass on underwear?

No. Underwear and socks are not passed on, whatever their condition.

Should clothing be washed before being passed on?

Yes, even if it looks clean.

What do you do with worn out clothing?

Use it as cloths or put it in textile waste following your local authority instructions.