Ninety-nine percent of used textiles are recyclable. Textile and clothing recycling can give old clothes, linens, and other textiles a second life. That not only reduces the amount of waste going into landfills, it also provides some much needed assistance to third world nations. Almost half of all post-consumer textile waste that is recovered is recycled to be used as second hand clothing. It is through the diligent recycling efforts of the Textile and Clothing Industry, that some of the world’s poorest nations are able to clothes their people. The recovery of textiles and clothing for recycling provide both environmental and economic benefits.

Clothing & textile recycling reduces the need for landfill space.
Synthetic fiber products will not decompose in the landfill. Woolen garments do decompose but they also produce methane which contributes to global warming.

Clothing & textile recycling reduces pressure on virgin resources.
Recycled clothing does not require the use of new textile resources such as cotton or wool.

Clothing & textile recycling encourages the development of additional markets.
Raw materials created from recycled content generally cost less, making their use attractive and desirable to manufacturers. This in turn leads to the development of more markets for reclaimed fibers.

Clothing & textile recycling saves Energy and Reduces Pollution.
Recycling saves on energy consumption when processing. Items do not need to be re-dyed or scoured. Unlike raw wool, reclaimed fibers do not have to be thoroughly washed using large volumes of water.

Clothing & textile recycling reduces the demand for dyes and fixing agents.