should I go circular or donate?

We’ve all been there: a mountain of outgrown onesies and tiny jeans piled on the floor. The easiest instinct is to bag it up and drop it at the nearest donation bin.

Don't get us wrong—if you have clean items in good condition that are currently being accepted by a charity you support, we are all for that! However, charitable donations aren't always the "blanket solution" to textile waste we hope they are.

the hidden side of charitable donations

Most people don't realize that many charities receive more than they can handle. When items are stained, torn, or simply from brands with low resale value, charities often lack the resources to repair or recycle them. The result? Those items often head straight to the landfill or get sold in bulk to textile graders, adding to the global waste crisis.

how Carousel is different

Our mission is to keep every thread in circulation for as long as possible–and out of the landfill when they have been worn to the fullest. Here is our approach:

• We created a circular path for "everyday" brands: Many resale shops and platforms only want higher-end labels and charities are often overwhelmed by the volume of mid-market items donated. We built Carousel specifically to make sure perfectly adorable items from “everyday” brands are matched with another child. With our multi-brand, personalized styling, we are able to rehome a wide range of lightly pre-loved styles.
• We have a small rehab program: Consignment stores and charities alike don’t accept items with noticeable stains, but we are able to save some special items with stain treatment to get them back into rotation.
• Total life cycle management: If an item truly can’t be worn, we don't just toss it. We upcycle pieces for special events or utilize textile recycling for items that have reached the end of their life.
• Convenience with a conscience: Whether it’s a local pickup in NYC or a mail-in from anywhere else, we make it easy to be responsible.

is our service right for you?

Traditional donation is great for a quick hand-off, but our circular model could be a good fit for you if:

1. You want to ensure zero waste: You want the peace of mind knowing that even your unusable items will never be sent to a landfill.
2. You have at least some "everyday" brands: You have fantastic styles from brands that might not have high resale value but still have plenty of life left in them.
3. You want to go circular: You love the idea of trading in the old to help fund the new. By earning a discount on your next order, you’re participating in a truly circular economy.
4. You are a busy parent who needs a one-and-done solution: Between raising tiny humans and work, you don’t have time to research local donation rules or manage resale listings. Carousel provides easy trade in solutions that respect your schedule as much as the environment.

The bottom line: Donating is an act of kindness; choosing a circular service is an act of environmental stewardship. Both are great choices and it’s wonderful that you are taking the time to decide which one fits.