The Solid Waste Agency of Lake County (SWALCO) has a clothing and textiles recycling program. This program continues “60% recycling rate” goal, which encourages Lake County residents to recycle at least 60% of their waste and unwanted products. The nearest drop off locations are at Fire Station #2 (6581 Dada Dr.) in the parking lot and Warren Township High School's O'Plaine Campus (500 N. O'Plaine Rd.) in the North parking lot at the NW corner.
In the U.S., textile and clothing waste is a significant problem. The EPA estimates that the average person throws away 70 pounds of clothing each year. An estimated 85% of clothing and textiles end up in landfills, making up 5-10% of all waste and consuming significant landfill space. SWALCO’s new clothing and textile recycling program will allow almost 95% of the materials collected to be repurposed or recycled.
Men’s, women’s and children’s clothing in new, gently used, used or unwanted/worn condition will be accepted. Clothing or textiles with stains or holes will also be accepted.
Clothing Items Accepted
- Blouses and shirts
- Coats and jackets
- Hats
- Pants and jeans
- Scarves
- Socks
- Swimsuits
- Sweaters
- Suits and tuxedos
- Ties
- Undergarments
Clothing Accessories Accepted
- Backpacks
- Belts
- Purses and handbags
- Tote Bags
Household Textiles Accepted
- Bedspreads, duvets, comforters, sheets, blankets, quilts
- Curtains
- Drapes
- Sofa Covers
- Towels and washcloths
PLEASE NOTE: Any unwanted shoes can be donated to SWALCO’s Reuse-A-Shoe program. A drop-off box is located outside of Gurnee Public Work's building. Please visit the Shoe Recycling page for more information.
Items Not Accepted
- Wet, smelly, or moldy items
- Carpet
- Cushions
- Foam furniture and foam mats
- Large Luggage
- Mattresses
- Pillows
- Rugs
- Sleeping Bags
- Vinyl Shower Curtains