The Vale of Glamorgan Council is introducing a new textiles recycling collection service to help residents give unwanted clothes and household fabrics a second life.
From Monday 17 November 2025, reusable textiles such as clothing, shoes, belts, handbags, towels, bed linen, and curtains will be collected from households and sent to a specialist off-taker that redistributes quality items both in the UK and abroad.
This ensures the items can be reused by people who need them, whilst also helping to reduce waste and carbon emissions.
The launch of the new service also coincides with Wales Climate Week 2025.
Residents in Barry will be the first to benefit from the new service, and then the scheme will gradually be introduced to all homes across the county.
Residents are requested to ensure that all items presented for collection are clean, dry, and in wearable condition, and that shoes are paired together.
Accepted items include:
- Everyday clothing and garments
- Pairs of shoes
- Belts and handbags
- Towels and other household linens
- Bed sheets, duvet covers, and pillowcases
- Tablecloths, runners, and napkins
- Curtains and similar fabric items
Items not accepted include:
- Branded or corporate uniforms
- High-visibility or safety workwear
- Duvets, quilts, pillows, or cushions
- Any items that are damaged, torn, heavily soiled, or wet
Residents who live outside of Barry are encouraged to continue taking reusable textiles to their local Recycling Centre or consider donating or selling items online or at local charity shops until the service is rolled out across the county.
Cllr Mark Wilson, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhood and Building Services, said: “We’re delighted to introduce this fantastic new scheme, which will make it easier for residents to recycle textiles from home.
“The textiles recycling service aligns closely with the Council’s Project Zero ambitions to reduce our carbon emissions to net zero by 2030 and also supports the Welsh Government’s national approach to recycling and waste management by ensuring that we are recycling at least 70% of our waste.
“By giving unwanted clothing and fabrics a second life, we are creating a more sustainable future for everyone, and will add to the choice of where people donate their clothes and other textiles”
As this is a brand-new service, the Council is asking residents to limit their textiles to one bag per collection during first few months after the launch to help collection teams understand how much material they’re likely to receive as the service rolls out.
