Cambridge Offers Curbside Textiles Collection as of Dec. 7, 2021; Scheduling Required.

The City of Cambridge announced today that it will be launching free curbside collection of clothing and textiles for reuse and recycling beginning December 7, 2021. Residents can schedule their free curbside collection through the Zero Waste Cambridge app or the Get Rid of It Right tool beginning today. Curbside collection of textiles is free and will take place at least once per week in Cambridge.

The city has partnered with HELPSY, a textiles recovery company, to collect from Cambridge on a weekly basis. Collected items are sorted into textiles that are suitable for the secondhand market, textiles that can be repaired, and textiles to remanufactured into new items (e.g., industrial rags, insulation, or padding).

“This new curbside textile recovery program will make disposing of textiles easier for residents while helping the city reach our goals to reduce trash and greenhouse gas emissions in Cambridge.” said Cambridge City Manager Louis A. DePasquale.

All clean and dry textiles, regardless of stains or tears, can be recycled or repurposed in this program. “Textiles” refers to all clothing, footwear, bedding, and other fabrics. While it’s estimated that 95% of all textiles could be given a second life, only 15% are diverted from the landfill or incinerator. In Cambridge, textiles make up 7% of our trash. By recovering textiles from the trash, we can reduce our climate emissions, water consumption, and our waste in landfills.

Organizations, such as schools and nonprofits, can also partner with HELPSY to host a textiles drop-off bin or textile drive, and in turn, will receive funds based on pounds collected. Those interested should contact the Public Works Recycling Division by emailing recycle@cambridgema.gov.

In addition to scheduling curbside collection of textiles online, residents will be able to use drop-off bins placed at select City parks and buildings, including schools. To schedule a curbside collection or find the nearest drop-off bin, visit www.CambridgeMA.Gov/Textiles or use the Zero Waste Cambridge app.