The debate about the cost of school uniforms has been ongoing for years, but with everyday costs rising, it has become a more pressing issue.
Parents across the country dread school uniform shopping. Not just because it’s the kid's least favourite thing to do! It’s because the expense of uniforms alongside the cost of livinghas become quite frightening.
As a mum of three, I’m used to finding ways to cut back each year, so I thought I’d share some of the top ways I make savings for all parents feeling the pinch this year.
Uniform Swap Shop
Many schools now operate a uniform swap shop, and if your child’s school doesn’t, why not suggest it? (Finally, the parents’ group WhatsApp has real benefits.) Kids often grow out of uniform quicker than they wear it out.
Simply swapping sizes at school is a great way to save money! If this scheme is run well and regularly, you can get kids through school and only pay for uniforms once!
(Image credit: Getty Images)
Head to the supermarket
Designated school uniform shops are costly. If your school insists on uniforms with the school logo or badge, you might not be able to avoid a visit to the school uniform shop (unless you use a school swap shop). However, items such as school shirts, polo shirts, trousers, shorts, and skirts are all available in the supermarket.
They are often sold in multipacks, which makes them even better value. From personal experience, I can recommend the school range fromGeorge at Asda
Not only is it great value, but the trousers and polo shirts have also survived a lot of washing! They also have school sweatshirts without logos available from as little as £2.50 - that’s a real bargain.
Which supermarkets sell the cheapest school uniform?
As I previously mentioned, I like George at Asda. But other supermarkets also offer incredible value. Lidl & Aldi have come out on top for value this year with the £5 all-in-one bundle, which includes two polo shirts, a sweatshirt or cardigan, and a choice of trousers, skirt or cargo shorts for £5. According to The Mirror last year, TU Clothing at Sainsbury's was the cheapest school uniform, followed by:
Here are the time frames for back to school uniform sales in 2025:
The Aldi bundle launches June 29th
The Lidl bundle launches July 3rd
Sainsbury's Tu clothing range starts June 18th
Tesco F&F sale is available from July 21st (July 7th in Scotland)
(Image credit: Getty Images)
Go up a size
Just as you would with all kid's clothes, go up a size. You may automatically go for the age your child is when they start the school year, but allow for growing room. This is useful when it comes to expensive blazers and coats. Don’t worry if they look a little oversized; your child won’t be the only one!
Even shorts, trousers and skirts can be bought in a larger size, make sure you buy the ones with an adjustable waist (most of them have this feature).
Take up the hems and let them down accordingly. You don’t need to be super handy with a needle and thread, but there are hundreds of tutorials on YouTube if you’re unsure.
Are you eligible for a school uniform grant?
There are school uniform grants available that help parents who receive selected benefits. Eligible benefits include but are not exclusive to Universal Tax Credits and Child Tax Credits. You can ask your local council or you can check if you are eligible here.
If you are eligible for a school uniform grant you might also be eligible for help with school lunches too - so remember to look into this when applying. We also have some great money-saving tips on packed lunches that can leave you with more money in your pocket.
Label everything!
(Image credit: Getty Images)
I know from my own experience how vital it is to label all your kid's clothing! There is nothing worse than a brand-new winter coat going missing during the first week of term to never be seen again.
Reduce the risk by investing in some printed labels or even just a waterproof pen. Don’t forget to label your child's PE kit too…shorts always go missing. If you are at the start of your child's school journey or you have more than one child I highly recommend a stamp kit from Stamptastic.
Consider preloved uniforms
There might be local selling groups or events organised by your school's PTA where you can pick up second-hand uniform items at bargain prices. The local ones are especially useful if your school insists on badges and logos being displayed.
Other items like sportswear for example can be picked up from local sites and sustainable clothing apps. To give you a head start, here are some great places to browse:
Outlet stores have some great bargains. They are perfect for additional items that kids will need, such as school bags and shoes. I love Clark's school shoes as you can get the perfect fit and hold up well against playtime football matches.
However, they aren’t cheap, so I head to Clarks Outlet either in person or online. You can save up to 70% off the full price; styles change frequently, so check the site regularly. There are other ways to save money on kids' shoes; read this article to find out more.
Use discount codes and loyalty cards
Discount codes do make a difference, from free delivery to a nice 20% off voucher, it all helps when spending on school uniforms.
Don’t forget to use loyalty cards too, especially if you have the Morrisons More Card rewards scheme or a TescoClubcard, as any money or vouchers in your account can also be used towards clothing.
Check out the sale rail
(Image credit: Getty Images)
The sales can be great for bargain school uniform items. Especially if you shop out of season. You can find school summer dresses and shorts during the winter months for less than half the price. And spring is a great time to pick up winter coats, just remember to size up if you are putting clothing away.
Buying duplicates in the sale for a few years ahead is organised, it might feel strange picking up uniforms so far in advance, but you will thank yourself for it at a later date.
Recent updates
This article was updated on 07/07/2025 by Nathan Walters
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Hi, I’m SJ. I’m the Beauty Editor and PR Executive here at MyVoucherCodes. As a qualified make-up artist, I've been able to share my knowledge on all things beauty and skincare with our readers so they not only look good and feel great, but save money. As a mum of three, I understand the challenges that families face, and making budgets go further is something I feel passionately about. My research and recommendations help families of all sizes shop better allowing them to enjoy the little luxuries in life. My work has been featured in many publications including The Sun, The Mirror, Netmums, and The Telegraph.
Outside of MyVoucherCodes, I'm a writer and interviewer for pop culture magazines like Buzz Magazine. I've chatted to celebrities such as Strictly's Johannes Redebeand poet Kae Tempest. It's certainly one of the best parts of my job. Over the years I've built a portfolio of work that shows the diversity of my writing, which gives me a breadth of knowledge and experience that I apply to my work every day.
