The ultimate cleaning hack Uber will pick up all your old clothes from home this weekend

If your wardrobe is overflowing with clothes you never wear, you’re not alone.

The Uber and Red Cross Clothing Drive is back, calling on Aussies to donate clothing to support their critical disaster response and humanitarian projects.

On Saturday, October 18, between 10am and 4pm local time in Sydney, AdelaideBrisbane, Melbourneand Perthusers can book an Uber Package trip to have their items delivered to their local Red Cross Shop free of charge.

No hauling heavy bags to the op shop, no excuses – just a simple way to give back while decluttering.

The average Australian adult has 20 items of clothing that they haven’t worn in the past 12 months, which adds up to over 231 million items of clothing sitting idle in wardrobes nationwide.

While many people say they want to donate more, convenience is the biggest barrier.

Aussies also have a tendency to put off delivering pre-loved items to op shops with the average person holding onto those items for another 24 days – over three weeks.

Richard Wood, Head of Retail at Australian Red Cross, said the partnership removes common hurdles.

The Uber and Red Cross Clothing Drive is back, calling on Aussies to donate clothing to support critical disaster response and humanitarian projects

‘Nearly half of Australians clear out their wardrobes every 6-12 months, but many are unsure what charities will accept,’ he explained.

‘The nation is holding onto billions of dollars’ worth of clothes that could be helping people in need. With Uber by our side, the drive is a simple, free way to give back without even leaving your home.’

How to take part

On October 18, residents in eligible cities can open the Uber or Uber Eats app, tap on the Red Cross Clothing Drive tile, and book a $0 Courier pick-up.

Donations should be clean, good-quality clothing and accessories packed in a bag or box under 20kg.

Emma Foley, Managing Director of Uber ANZ, said last year’s drive collected 80,000kg of clothing, and she hopes this year’s event will be even bigger.

‘Convenience is often the missing link when it comes to donating clothes,’ she said.

‘We’re excited to make it easier than ever for people to give their pre-loved fashion a second life.’

Red Cross said: ‘Disasters are becoming more frequent and intense in Australia, and it’s so important that we are ready to respond’

Funds raised from the sale of donated clothes directly support Australian Red Cross humanitarian programs – from disaster relief to community support services.

The charity stresses that only quality items should be donated – clothing you’d be happy to give to a friend.

Worn-out garments, dirty clothes, and homewares can’t be accepted.

With the average household holding hundreds of dollars’ worth of unworn fashion, the initiative is a chance to reclaim space, reduce waste, and support vulnerable Australians – all without leaving the house.