Don’t be judgmental

February 12, 2013

 Today's Guest Blog on textiles was written by Larry Groipen, President of ERC Wiping Products, Inc.

I have been in the textile recycling business for over 35 years, When my kids were in school they were often teased that their dad sold rags. Well today they are very proud that their father is involved in helping the environment by diverting and recycling millions of pounds of textiles annually. You can help too!

Everyone has heard the term don't be Judgmental; when it comes to clothing and other household textiles the truth is you should not be judgmental when you take your clothing to your favorite charity or clothing recycler. Just grab the biggest bag you can and throw it all in there. No need to decide if the clothing or shoes are wearable or desirable.

Charities and textile recyclers do all the work for you, the industry knows what to do with the shirt with the ink spot, the dress with a broken zipper, the armpit stained tee shirt, the jeans with a hole in the knee, or even the lone sock that escaped the dryer snatcher. Don't forget the shoes that need a good shine or heel, the belts, purses, towels, bed sheets, and bathrobes. Even stuffed animals can be put in the bag.

Many textile recyclers belong to an organization called SMART (Secondary Materials and Recycled Textiles) www.smartasn.org.Some SMART members collect used clothing, shoes and other household textiles. Other SMART members partner with Charities by purchasing their unwanted item s from the Charity. The money that SMART members pay charities provides much needed money for their charitable programs.

So if you get a card in the mail or see a collection box that asks for only "gently worn clothing" you can take my word for it that they will in fact take everything in any condition. I promise no one is going to bring your clothing back and say we don't want it. Everyone that collects used clothing knows what to do with the worn, torn and out of style clothing and shoes. One of my favorite charities that will take all your clothing and household textiles is Goodwill Industries. Goodwill takes any textile in any condition as long as it is dry and free of odors.

So remember don't be judgmental when it comes to used clothing, Donate, Recycle, but don't throw it away.

ERC Wiping Products, Inc., located in Lynn, Massachusetts, recycles more than 3 million pounds of textiles annually.For more from ERC and Larry, check out ERC's Blog.

Guest Blogs represent the opinion of the writer and may not reflect the policy or position of the Northeast Recycling Council, Inc.