Sustainable Halloween Costumes

When it comes to Halloween costumes, you have a lot of freedom. That’s what it’s all about, right? You can be whatever you want.

So whatever you choose to be this year, be environmentally friendly!

Choosing Sustainable Halloween Costumes

One of the first things on your list to make your Halloween more eco-friendly is a costume. This is arguably the easiest change to make over other changes, but can still have a huge impact.

Before you head to the nearest costume shop, consider making your costume more sustainable. There are a few easy ways to do this.

Reused & Reusable Costumes

Choose a costume you’ve had from previous years or choose one that can be reused in future years. This might mean opting for a classic character like a witch or ghost, rather than something more temporary and trendy like a celebrity from this year’s headlines.

Second-Hand Costumes

You can also look for second-hand costume options at local thrift stores. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also help to reduce textile waste.

DIY Costumes

Many of us as children got to come up with our own costumes, which can be so much more fun. When I was younger, the friend I always went trick-or-treating with had a “Halloween chest” full of costume bits and pieces and accessories. That was what we had to choose from to create our costumes.

Consider a solution like this that can create endless combinations without buying new costumes every year. Costume mashups can be the best! I believe my personal favorite was Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz with a Scream mask and a huge clock necklace.

Costume Disposal

Many costumes are made from synthetic materials that can take hundreds of years to break down in landfill. Before you throw your costume away, try to think through your options to find the best choice for the environment.

• Reuse it: If you or someone you know is able to reuse the costume in a future year, save it! If it’s damaged you may be able to easily repair it and use it again for years to come.
• Donate it: If you don’t see the costume getting used again within your household, donate it to someone you know or a local thrift shop where it can still get reused.
• Upcycle it: Could you potentially use the materials from the costume to make something new? Get creative!
• Recycle it: If you truly do want to dispose of the costume, take a look at what it’s made of and recycle it to the extent you’re able.

Related Sustainable Halloween Guides

• Eco-Friendly Halloween Decorations
• Ethical & Eco-Friendly Halloween Treats
• Throwing a Green Halloween Party