Yes! As you start your spring clean, don’t put textiles in the garbage! There are many ways to keep clothing, shoes, and textiles out of the City landfills.
- Donate usable clothing and shoes to local charities or drop-off charity bins near you. Be sure to contact them first to find out what types are accepted. If the charity bin is full, don’t leave it outside – only materials in the bins are accepted. Instead, hang onto your donation or take it to another bin.
- Recycle clothing and textiles for free at a City landfill, even if it’s damaged. Our ‘Throw ‘N’ Go’ accepts a variety of textiles including outerwear, shoes, reusable shopping bags, purses, backpacks, and more. Just make sure fabrics are clean and dry, and place items in a bag before dropping off. If you bring other garbage in your load, landfill charges will apply.
- Repurpose old cotton shirts by cutting them into rags for household chores, such as cleaning or automotive work. Textiles also make great projects and crafts, with many patterns available online: sew quilts from denim and flannel, handkerchiefs from old t-shirts, or cushion covers from curtains.
Not sure how to properly dispose of an item? Visit calgary.ca/whatgoeswhere for answers to hundreds of items.
