Textiles recycling
How to Recycle Cotton Clothing & T-Shirts
Natural cotton garments including t-shirts, pants, and dresses that can be donated, reused, or recycled into new textile products and industrial materials.
Recyclable$0.10-0.50 per pound for textile recycling; $2-20+ for quality donation itemsUpdated Jun 2026
Quick answer
Yes, cotton clothing is recyclable even when stained or torn, not just donatable. Keep it clean and dry, then donate wearable pieces or drop the rest at a textile-recycling bin (many retailers accept any textile); worn cotton becomes rags, insulation, or new fiber.
- Recyclable
- Yes
- Typical value
- $0.10-0.50 per pound for textile recycling; $2-20+ for quality donation items
- Donate / take-back
- Available
How to Prepare
- 1Wash and dry thoroughly to remove stains and odors
- 2Check garments for damage and separate wearable from unwearable