Recycle old garments UK
Repurpose before recycle
Cleaning rags: Cut old jackets and aprons into durable cleaning cloths for kitchens or workshops. Tote bags or kitchen accessories: Use sturdy fabric to create reusable shopping bags, oven mitts, or pot holders.Apron patches or repairs: Use parts of old gear to repair newer pieces.Compost (For 100% Natural Fibers)If the fabric is 100% organic cotton, linen, or hemp, it can be cut into small pieces and composted (avoid synthetic blends).
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1. TRAID collections
- Offers free home collections for unwanted textiles. Items are hand-sorted, and suitable clothing is sold in their charity shops to support global projects reducing the environmental and social impacts of our clothes. https://traid.org.uk/clothes-donations
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2. Textile Recycling BanksLondon Recycles
- London Recycles: Utilize the recycling locator tool to find nearby textile banks. londonrecycles.co.uk
- Recycle Now: Drop off your unwanted items at recycling points and clothing and textile banks in supermarkets and local car parks. recyclenow.com
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British Heart Foundation (BHF)
- Has recycling banks at various locations, including partnerships with institutions like Imperial College London, where you can donate clothes, shoes, and other items.
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4. Retailer Take-Back Schemes
- Neem London: Accepts unwanted 100% cotton or wool items for recycling into new garments. Participants receive a £30 discount coupon for future purchases. neemlondon.com
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5. Roberts Recycling Ltd
- A family-run business focusing on keeping textiles out of landfills by ethically recycling unwanted items. robertsrecycling.co.uk
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6. UK Textile Recycling
- Specializes in collecting and recycling clothes, shoes, and household linens, supporting various charities, schools, and community groups. uktextilerecycling.co.uk
Tips
- Preparation
Ensure textiles are clean and dry before recycling or donating.
- Accepted Items
Confirm which items are accepted by the chosen organization or facility, as some may not take certain textiles or accessories.