Giving New Life to Old Clothes
Many people do not realize it, but old clothes can be recycled for a variety of uses. Nearly all clothes can make good dusting and wiping rags. However, some can be remade as stuffing, quilts, gift wrapping, protective dust and scuff coverings, and even new clothes. But, even though old clothes have a lot of recycling potential at home, they can still be recycled at a recycling plant.
Many textile recyclers can be reached through charitable organizations that collect used clothing, such as the Salvation Army and Goodwill. These recyclers take anything the charities can’t sell in their stores and process them to make things like carpet padding, soundproofing insulation, and more. However, they will not accept clothes that are moldy or wet. You can call your local charities to find which ones work with textile recyclers and make sure your old clothes are put to green use.