Bras

Back to main page

Do you really need to pass your bra on?

If your bra is so worn that it's unsuitable for reuse, you can put it in the clothing/textile recycling bin at the tip. (But please don't make a whole journey to the tip just to get rid of a single bra!)

Who will take used bras?

Bravissimo "bra banks" The lingerie/swimwear chain Bravissimo runs a bra recycling scheme in shops. This was suspended in 2020 because of COVID but is now running again. Every shop has a "bra bank" (usually in the changing room area) where you can leave your old bra. It doesn't matter what condition it's in! Those in a usable condition go to women in other countries, those that are unusable are recycled, so it's great if you can't decide whether your old bra is wearable or not because they make the decision for you. Bravissimo also makes a 70p donation to Refuge for every kilo of donated bras. List of Bravissimo shops: https://www.bravissimo.com/shops/all/

Smalls for All: send bras by post The charity Smalls for All takes unworn or "gently worn" bras and distributes them to people in Africa. Post them to:

Smalls for All 108 Buchanan Crescent Eliburn Livingston EH54 7EF

Against Breast Cancer: bra banks, but not always easy to find The charity Against Breast Cancer has a national bra recycling scheme, but the info on their website about the location of the bra banks isn't always up to date, so you may have a wasted journey.

Not taking/no longer taking bras
 * Most charity shops won't take used bras.
 * Many councils do not collect textiles in their kerbside recycling. (Well, they might collect it with the rest of your recycling, but then they'll bin it.) Check with your local authority.