New survey reveals a nation of hoarders

Age UK is encouraging the nation to get behind theBig Bag Challenge and clear their clutter.

Over half of adults in the UK (51%) admit to having between one and 10 items in their wardrobe that they’ve never worn since purchase, according to a new survey conducted by YouGov for Age UK, indicating there are many wardrobes across the country in need of decluttering.

62% of women admit to owning clothes they've never worn

Women are most likely to own unworn clothes, with a huge 62% of females admitting to possessing items that have never made it off the hanger. It will come as no surprise that more than a third of people are hanging on to clothes which are too small in the hope that one day they will fit again. 

The findings come as Age UK prepares to launch its annual Big Bag Challenge which kick starts on 9 October. Age UK is calling on people to declutter their wardrobe and make some space by filling a bag with clothes, shoes or homeware to donate to their local Age UK shop. Proceeds from the bags will help Age UK to support vulnerable older people.

September and October is the key time when people swap from summer to winter wear, and organise their wardrobes for the winter season ahead. So instead of packing away the clothes that have still never been worn, Age UK is hoping to inspire people to streamline their wardrobes for a good cause.

I'm so happy that the Age UK’s Big Bag Challenge has helped me make space for my winter clothes (oh, and it was quite therapeutic too!)

Fashion and lifestyle blogger Hayley Rubery, of ‘Frock me I’m famous’, who's supporting Age UK’s campaign, said: 'I have to admit that I'm a hoarder and find it SO hard to let go of clothes, but I'm so happy that the Age UK’s Big Bag Challenge has helped me make space for my winter clothes (oh, and it was quite therapeutic too!). Please support Age UK’s Big Bag Challenge and get decluttering your wardrobes today.'

Age UK’s Head of Retail Operations Steve Wooldridge said: 'Our research shows there are literally millions of items of clothing in wardrobes up and down the country which have never been worn and are waiting to see the light of day. Age UK’s Big Bag Challenge is a fun campaign which most of us can take part in and doesn’t cost a penny. Not only will you be benefitting from a clear mind and wardrobe, you will be helping to raise vital funds to support older people.'

How to get involved

Volunteers in Age UK shops will be on hand to receive bags of donations with the goal of reaching 100,000 bags of goods across the country in just two weeks between 9 October and 23 October.

All types of quality goods are accepted, including clothing, shoes, books, accessories and homewares and every bag donated will help raise much-needed funds for the charity, helping to continue it’s vital work by providing companionship, support and advice, as well as a free national advice line (open 365 days a year) and vital campaigning work.

With over 430 Age UK shops across the UK, taking part couldn’t be easier.