Used Clothing
Recycling Clothing
Public Works has contracted with 7th Generation Recycling to take used clothing and linens for recycling. The following items are accepted: clothing, shoes, hats, belts, sheets and pillowcases, comforters, blankets and towels. Materials must be clean, dry and in good condition suitable for reuse. No wet, mildewed, torn or stained items will be accepted.
Materials should be packed in clean plastic bags tied with a twist tie and placed in the clothing trailer located in the recycling area. Local thrift stores also accept useable clothing and other household goods for resale.
Helping the Environment & Others
Recycling clothing and other products helps to prolong the life of the landfill, enhances the efficiency of the composting operation, and lowers your disposal costs by reducing the amount of trash you throw away.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, every American throws away an average of about 68 pounds of clothing and other textile products each year, accounting for about four % of the waste entering landfills. Although both natural fibers, such as wool, cotton and linen, and manmade varieties, such as polyester and nylon, are recyclable, only about 15% of discarded textiles are recycled.
Reducing Waste
Donating used clothing (and other items) to thrift stores provides a revenue source for non-profit organizations, reduces waste entering the Landfill, and offers an alternative to the purchase of cheaply made new products.Buying used clothing rather than new or shredding old clothing into fibers also helps to reduce energy, water and pesticide use as well as air and water emissions associated with the manufacture of clothing and other textiles from raw materials. Fibers produced from shredded used textiles can be made into insulation, stuffing for duvets, pillows and toys, and even paper and pens.
Thrift Stores
Thrift stores in Mariposa County that accept donations of clean, wearable clothing and shoes include:
Mariposa SPCA
5599 Highway 49N
209-966-5275
Class A Consignments
5057 Highway 140
209-966-7007