Why do we get rid of clothes? Researcher's 'wardrobe study' in Norwegian homes provides clear answers.
Translated from Norwegian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- A researcher's study of Norwegian homes has identified clear reasons why people discard clothing.
- The study collected 3,556 textile items to understand disposal habits.
- The research is part of a broader inquiry into the challenges of sustainable living.
A recent doctoral study by consumer researcher Anna Schytte Sigaard at SIFO (Norwegian Institute for Consumer Research) at Oslo Met has shed light on the common reasons behind clothing disposal in Norwegian households. The research, which involved collecting 3,556 textile items, aims to provide clear answers to why people decide to get rid of their clothes.
Published on May 27, 2026, the findings are part of a larger effort to understand the complexities of adopting a sustainable lifestyle. Sigaard's work directly addresses the question of why sustainable living remains a challenge for many, exploring the practical habits and decisions that contribute to textile waste.
The article, titled "Why do we get rid of clothes? The researcher's 'wardrobe study' in Norwegian homes provides some clear answers," highlights the significance of this research in the context of environmental consciousness and consumer behavior. Access to the full article requires a subscription.
Originally published by Aftenposten in Norwegian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.