New recycling service for textiles

Monday, 3 November 2025 12:37

By Gareth Joy X @lookoutwales2

Pixabay

A new service for recycling unwanted clothes and household fabrics will begin its rollout from later this month.

Reusable textiles - including shoes, handbags, towels and curtains - will be collected by council workers in the Barry area from Monday 17th November.

The recycling collection service, being launched as part of Wales Climate Week, will be gradually rolled out across the rest of the county.

Vale of Glamorgan Council says all items collected will be sent to a specialist off-taker that redistributes quality textiles both in the UK and abroad, ensuring they can be reused by the people who need them, while helping to reduce waste and carbon emissions.

Cllr Mark Wilson, cabinet member for neighbourhood services, said: "We’re delighted to introduce this fantastic new scheme, which will make it easier for residents to recycle textiles from home."

"The textiles recycling service aligns closely with the council’s Project Zero ambitions to reduce our carbon emissions to net zero by 2030 and also supports the Welsh Government’s national approach to recycling and waste management by ensuring that we are recycling at least 70% of our waste."

"By giving unwanted clothing and fabrics a second life, we are creating a more sustainable future for everyone, and will add to the choice of where people donate their clothes and other textiles."

Acceptable items for recycling include:

  • Everyday clothing and garments
  • Pairs of shoes
  • Belts and handbags
  • Towels and other household linens
  • Bed sheets, duvet covers, and pillowcases
  • Tablecloths, runners, and napkins
  • Curtains and similar fabric items

The council says residents wishing to recycle textiles should ensure all items are clean, dry and in wearable condition - with shoes paired together.

Items that won't be accepted for recycling include:

  • Branded or corporate uniforms
  • High-visibility or safety workwear
  • Duvets, quilts, pillows, or cushions
  • Any items that are damaged, torn, heavily soiled, or wet

The council is asking Barry residents to limit their textiles to one bag per collection during the first few months to help collection teams understands how much material they're likely to receive before the service is rolled out elsewhere.

Residents elsewhere in the Vale are being asked to continue taking their resuable textiles to their local recycling centre or consider donating or selling items, either online or at local charity shops.

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