Are your kids constantly growing out of stuff and needing new things? You’re definitely not alone! Parents spend an average of £300 per year on back to school gear*, yet at the same time 1.4 million school uniforms end up in the bin** – yikes! Here at Olio we want to put a stop to that, especially when many families are struggling financially and the planet needs our help.
The cost of school uniforms can quickly add up for families across the UK. From blazers and shoes to stationery and PE kits, getting ready for the new school year can put real pressure on household budgets.
The good news is there are several ways to save money on back-to-school uniforms while also reducing waste and supporting your local community.
Here are five simple ways to cut costs this school year.
Our top 5 back to school saving tips:
1. Download the Olio app to give and get pre-loved items
One of the easiest ways to save money on school uniforms is by using community sharing apps like Olio.
Olio allows neighbours to give away items they no longer need and find things they do — including school uniforms, backpacks, stationery and sports kits.
You can:
☑️ List clothes your kids have outgrown
☑️ Request items your child needs
☑️ Arrange a collection time that works for you
By sharing items locally, families can save money while reducing waste.
2. Buy second-hand school uniforms
Choosing second-hand school uniforms is one of the most effective ways to keep costs down.
Many schools and communities run initiatives that help families buy or swap uniforms at a fraction of the cost.
Try checking:
☑️ Your school’s Parent Teacher Association (PTA) uniform sales
☑️ Local Facebook community groups
☑️ Specialist resale sites like Uniformely, which focuses on school uniform resale
Buying pre-loved items is not only budget-friendly but also helps extend the life of clothing and reduce textile waste.
3. Look out for local uniform swap initiatives
Across the UK, many communities organise uniform swaps, donation points and pop-up second-hand stores before the school term begins.
These initiatives often allow families to:
☑️ Drop off uniforms their children no longer need
☑️ Swap items for different sizes
☑️ Pick up essentials for free or for a small donation
Local charities, schools and community groups often run these schemes, so it’s worth checking what’s available in your area..
4. Be careful with multipack uniform deals
Multipacks can sometimes help families save money, but they can also lead to buying more than you actually need.
Items like polo shirts or socks that children wear frequently may be good value in bulk. However, for items like skirts or trousers, it’s worth calculating the price per item before buying.
This simple step can help you decide whether a deal is genuinely cheaper.
5. Check if you’re eligible for a school uniform grant
Some families in the UK may qualify for school uniform grants from their local council.
Depending on where you live and your household income, grants can be worth up to £200 per child.
Because eligibility and grant amounts vary by location, it’s best to:
☑️ Visit your local council website
☑️ Search using your postcode
☑️ Check what support schemes are available
These grants can make a significant difference for families preparing for the new school year.