Every year, the first Monday of January marks National Returns Day, the busiest day for returns in the retail industry. After the holiday season, millions of items are sent back to retailers in a wave of post-gift dissatisfaction. But behind the scenes of this annual ritual lies a shocking environmental cost: most returns don’t make it back to shelves.
Source: National Geographic
The Hidden Waste of Returns
While many people assume returned items are restocked and resold, the reality is far grimmer. According to recent studies:
- Up to 80% of returns end up in landfills, primarily because restocking and reprocessing returned goods is often more expensive than simply discarding them. (Source)
- The environmental toll of processing returns in the U.S. alone generates 5 billion pounds of landfill waste and produces 15 million metric tons of carbon dioxide annually.(Source)
- For clothing specifically, fast fashion’s tendency to prioritize low costs and mass production exacerbates the problem—many garments are deemed “unsalvageable” after being returned. (Source)
Why Does This Happen?
A major driver behind these numbers is fit. Most clothing isn’t made to fit every body type, leading to dissatisfaction and returns. Meanwhile, the cost of cleaning, repairing, and re-packaging returned items is so high for retailers that many opt to dispose of them instead.
How FXRY is Changing the Story
At FXRY, we believe in a different approach. Before you hit that “Return” button, consider whether the item you purchased could work with a little adjustment. Our expert repair and tailoring services can:
- Adjust fit to ensure your new clothes are flattering and comfortable.
- Extend the life of items that might otherwise be discarded.
- Reduce waste by keeping clothing out of landfills.
Every garment deserves a chance to shine—and with a few tweaks, that ill-fitting item could become your next favorite wardrobe staple.
Take Action
This National Returns Day, let’s break the cycle of waste. Instead of returning your clothes, send them our way for expert alterations. Together, we can make a difference for your clothes & the planet.
