Chelmsford's Pink Bag Textile Recycling Program To Change

CHELMSFORD, MA — If you ever wondered whether old sheets, dusty curtains or socks too worn out to be reused could be recycled, the answer is yes.

Across Massachusetts, residents and businesses dispose of approximately 230,000 tons of textiles annually. About 95 percent of this material could be reused or recycled instead of thrown away, according to the state.

For a time Chelmsford helped facilitate the recycling of textiles through the Pink Bag textile recycling program, operated by Simple Recycling.

But now, that program is changing.

Rather than tossing your textiles in the pink bags and putting them out next to the recycling, residents need to schedule a pickup with the company, based on the company's availability.

Although it's an extra step for residents, town officials said it makes the process more efficient and convenient for the company.

To schedule a pick up, go online to www.simplerecycling.com plug in your zip code and a calendar will pop up showing what days work for the company. You can also call 1.866.835.5068.

The pickups will now be at the front door instead of the curb, and you will no longer need to use a pink bag.

If you have questions email: mjoyce@chelmsfordma.gov