What is your go-to for recycling fabric that can't be repaired/treated/op-shopped? Anyone have any involvement in any good re-use programs?
We use and reuse stuff til it's rags but have more than enough rags or washcloths already.
I know H&M used to have a rewards program for 10% off full priced items for fabric dropoffs that they said were shredded, but currently not living anywhere near one.
Also considered:
- mechanic dropoffs for rags (some fabrics are unsuitable though)
- landfill
Zara also do textile recycling https://www.zara.com/au/en/help-center/ClothesCollectionProg…
Some other options listed here https://recyclingnearyou.com.au/clothing/
Recyclesmart also take some textiles https://www.recyclesmart.com/clothing. Some councils offer this as a free service https://www.recyclesmart.com/councils.
Recycle Smart has a pick up service and there's a referral program for credit here on OzB
rags, although I have a large pile now
.
Not very ozbargain friendly, but I use upparel. Their prices have gone up quite a bit though, it was $20 for 10kg in 2021, now it's $35. You can get a coupon for recycling too, but the coupons haven't kept up with the price of recycling. But they sort it, make recycled cotton products and give to partner charities for the things that are any good. Plus they pick it up, which helps for the lazy types (i.e. me).
They do partner with a bunch of stores to let you drop off smaller amounts though - https://upparel.com.au/blog/clothing-drop-off-locations/ - I imagine there's no coupon with that.
Yeah same. Its kinda expensive, but you can really stuff the box with all of your sheets and towels etc that are tough to donate otherwise. Def worth it if you have a lot to get rid of.
We bag ours up, jeans separate, mark as rags and give to Vinnies.
https://www.vinnies.org.au/nsw/get-involved/vinnies-bag-o-ra… (NSW link but SA still processes out of Kidman Park)
I never know what do with old shoes. I wear them until they are falling apart.
I researched this too and found Tread Lightly that break the shoes down and make gym mats etc.
Check their website for drop-off locations and retail partners. I eventually found the yellow box in my local Rebel and dumped a bunch of shoes there.
I think they only take sneakers and similar shoes, not heels etc
In additional to tread lightly (for sports/ leisure footwear), the Zara recycling program also takes shoes (any kind of shoes)
Stores like Asics, Rebel has recycling bins for old shoes you can drop off at your convenience 😊
For beddings (Bedsheets, pillow case, blankets), the Sheridan Outlet in Mount Gravatt (Brisbane) takes them.
You should have one near you.
For other stuff like t-shirt and pants, I cut them into small sizes and use as kitchen rags, or bathroom.
Hence our purchase of Paper Towel is extremely minimal.