Written by Carlos Leiva, Outreach Specialist, Department of Public Works and Environmental Services Solid Waste Team
Take a quick look at any closet or dresser drawer, and it's easy to see the problem. Old clothes with holes in them, worn-out shoes, and faded, stained linens piling up with nowhere to go. Most people would try to donate them if there is a chance they could be sold again, but realistically, they will end up in the trash. When looking for ways to reduce waste, most turn to curbside or local recycling programs, but those typically only accept plastics, metals, glass, and cardboard. That leaves countless everyday items, like clothing, shoes, and linens, without a simple way to be recycled. As a result, textiles often end up in the waste stream, even though most of them don’t belong there.
Textile waste is a growing issue across the United States. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), millions of tons of textiles are discarded each year, even though 95% of them could be reused or recycled. By recycling textiles, we save natural resources, conserve energy, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. It’s a simple way to make a big impact, keep usable materials in circulation and support a more sustainable, circular economy.
To tackle this challenge locally, Fairfax County launched the Helpsy Textile Collection Pilot at the West Ox Transfer Station in early 2025. The program makes it easier than ever for residents to give their unwanted clothing and household textiles a second life. Items accepted include clothing, footwear, accessories, and home textiles such as sheets, towels, and curtains. Whether they’re gently used, worn out, or stained, all items collected through Helpsy are sorted and directed to their best possible next use: resale, donation, upcycling, or recycling.
In just six months, the Helpsy Textile Collection Pilot gathered more than 60,000 pounds of textiles, proof that when given the opportunity, residents are eager to do their part. Building on this success, Fairfax County recently expanded the program to the I-95 Landfill Complex and will add more locations soon.
Every resident who participates helps Fairfax County move closer to its zero waste goal, which aims to divert 90% of the total waste stream away from disposal. Nearly all textiles collected through Helpsy are reused, ensuring less material ends up in landfills and more are given a new purpose.
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Carlos Leiva joined the Solid Waste Management Program in the Department of Public Works and Environmental Services in October 2022. He quickly found his passion in creating content that encourages waste reduction, managing projects and connecting with residents during outreach events. Outside of work, he is pursuing a Master’s in Public Administration at George Mason University.