It's time for wool and thermals to make way for your sunnier wardrobe. Before you pack away those worn boots and tired sweaters, think again. While Moscow is hardly a recycling paradise, there are places that can recycle, resell or donate your unwanted clothes. It might require a little effort on your part, but the eco-friendly satisfaction will be worth it.
If your clothes are in excellent condition but you've simply decided they aren't to your taste, why not donate them to "Blagobutik," a thrift shop that sells donated goods to raise funds for charity. There is a shop at Flacon Design Factory and at the Altufyevo Auchan megastore — as well as various collection points across the city.
If you love an anti-cafe, head to Tsiferblat on Tverskaya Ulitsa. On the second floor you can leave unwanted items and pick up anything you fancy in return. "Lavka Radostei" is another quirky spot that collects clothing, shoes and accessories. Purportedly the first European-style charity shop in Russia, visitors can donate their items and then make a monetary donation if they would like anything from the shop floor.
There are also charitable organizations and churches who accept clothing. The Red Cross in Moscow will take winter clothing and unwanted bedding and donate to disadvantaged families, single mothers and the homeless.
Heading to the mall this weekend? All branches of H&M in Moscow should have a box near the cash register where you can donate items. H&M will sort the clothes for you and either send them for resale or for textile recycling. You get 15 percent off your next purchase when you drop off a package of secondhand clothing. Which is great, until you end up leaving the shop with more than you came with.
Blagobutik: blagobutik.ru
Tsiferblat anti-cafe: ziferblat.net
Russian Red Cross Moscow: redcross-mos.ru
H&M: hm.com
Lavka Radostei: lavkaradostej.ru
