It is easy to throw away a worn duvet cover or a towel that no longer absorbs. But textile waste is one of the hardest areas of sustainability to solve, and knowing why can change how we see it.
Textile recycling is not as simple as paper or glass. When cotton is recycled mechanically, that is, shredded and turned back into fibre, the fibres get shorter. On their own these fibres usually cannot make a quality yarn and have to be blended with new fibre. Blends such as cotton-polyester are even harder. Separating the two fibres is still technically expensive.
That is why the best recycling is often giving a product a second life at home. Old towels make excellent cleaning cloths. Cotton duvet covers can be cut into dusters, or even fabric bags or plant covers. Items still in good condition can be donated; animal shelters always need old towels and blankets. Textile collection bins are also becoming more common in many cities. Perhaps the most sustainable move is to buy long-lasting products in the first place.