Sam Smith, a support worker from Brighton, founded The Clothes Horse Sanctuary in 2016 after noticing many discarded clothes horses around the city. What began as a personal effort to rescue and repair these often-overlooked household items quickly grew into a larger project housing nearly 40 named clothes horses at a local stable. At the sanctuary, the clothes horses receive “medical” repairs for broken parts, socialization, and even calming background music mimicking washing machines. Sam and his volunteer team aim to reduce environmental waste by rehabilitating these items and educating the public on their care and longevity.

Sam’s mission highlights the resilience and quiet support clothes horses provide, emphasizing their value beyond mere utility. Through TikTok, he shares updates, care tips, and stories that have garnered over 4,000 followers, fostering a community around this unique cause. Despite some seeing his hobby as unusual, Sam hopes to end the cycle of disposal by encouraging proper maintenance and rehoming, ultimately promoting sustainability and appreciation for these everyday objects.