We all love new clothes. We get butterflies in our stomachs when it comes to a wardrobe full of the best garments put out there. Novelty is what humanity chase after, and some of us can fulfill that craving in our fashion choices.

We get that dose of dopamine each time a new package hits our door, and we can’t wait to see what our favorite brands offer for each new season. However, with the multiple consequences that the fashion industry brings to the world, shopping secondhand became the evident move to fulfill our craving for clothes. At the same time, we limit the damages of the textile industry. However, there is a significant stigma attached to not wearing new clothes. That stigma, though, may close our eyes from the opportunities that secondhand shopping can bring us. Here are six reasons why you’re better off buying secondhand clothes than new ones.

They Are Eco-friendly

First off, secondhand clothes don’t require further resources. That is, they’ve already been made. You can avoid harmful practices carried out in their production. To not use them would be like wasting food. Buying secondhand clothes would mean you’re doing your best to reduce demand for these clothes. Thus, reducing chemical and water pollution is too often associated with production methods in the fashion industry.

They Are Cheaper

This seems obvious, right? And to be fair, this is the reason why most people opt for secondhand clothes. They are simply cheaper— and most times they still have the same level of quality as new clothes. This might not be the case if you walk into boutiques and buy new pieces. However, if we look for secondhand clothes, it’s nearly impossible to find a dream piece that wouldn’t be right in your budget.

Buying Secondhand Clothes Reduce The Load On Landfills

Each year, we produce about 14.3 million tons of textile waste. Most people throw away clothes when they don’t use them anymore. Indeed, the average American disposes yearly of about 65 pounds worth of clothing. The sad thing is that a lot of this waste is actually in good condition and can be used for longer. If more people shop from thrift shops and bought secondhand clothes, these clothes wouldn’t be thrown away too often.

They Last Longer

It might sound contradictory but secondhand clothes last longer than new ones. and there’s a logic to it. When you buy good quality thrift clothes, they tend to last for longer. That’s because they are usually artfully crafted vintage clothing that was built to last. Clothes these days aren’t produced that way. With the culture of fast fashion taking over, even the best clothes these days are designed to only last a few years at most. Of course, the key to making your secondhand clothes last is finding good quality secondhand clothes in the first place. Luckily, they aren’t that difficult to find.

They Help Reduce The Demand For Fast Fashion

Wearing secondhand clothes help reduce the demand for fast fashion. If you purchase secondhand clothes, you’re helping us build a fairer and more equitable world by reducing the need for fast fashion. This way, you’ll be helping in your little way to reduce the demand for slave labor and sweatshops.

They Are Just As Good As New

Some of us don’t want to wear secondhand clothes because we do not feel like wearing something that a stranger owns. This is understanding but quite irrelevant. Before they are sold, these clothes are cleaned and vetted. After this extensive vetting process, they are put on sale. That’s why you don’t have to worry about buying spoilt or damaged clothes at the thrift shop.

There’s No Reason Not To Make The Switch

There are at least six reasons why you should start buying secondhand clothes. And if you’re honest, you’d realize that they are pretty good reasons too. So what are you waiting for?