Textiles

Since 2022, it’s illegal in Massachusetts to throw textiles in the trash. Textile recovery like this is how the state aims to reduce solid waste and meet its climate goals.

There’s a dedicated Bay State Textiles bin right at the Eastham Transfer Station. It’s part of the MassDEP-supported “Beyond the Bin” textile recovery program

Accepted items

  • Clothing
  • Accessories
  • Footwear
  • Linens
  • Pillows
  • Plush toys—even if worn or torn, as long as clean and dry.

Make sure items are clean, dry, and odor-free (no mold, stains, or contaminants)
.Place items neatly in bags and drop inside the bin—do not leave them outside the container

Bay State Textiles

Bay State Textiles is a regional textile recycler. They collect the bags from the bin and transport them to one of their sorting facilities.

  • Reused (45%)
    • Wearable items in good condition are resold in secondhand markets, often overseas (e.g., Latin America, Africa, Eastern Europe).
    • Some are redistributed to nonprofits or thrift stores domestically.
  • Recycled (30%)
    • Unwearable textiles are cut into industrial wiping cloths (rags) used by mechanics, janitorial services, and factories.
    • Others are processed into shoddy—a fibrous material used in:
      • Insulation
      • Carpet padding
      • Stuffing for upholstery or pet beds
      • Soundproofing materials
  • Waste (25%)
    • Items that are wet, moldy, or contaminated are not salvageable and must be landfilled or incinerated.

More information

Check out these resources for more information.

Eastham Recycling Committee