New recycling program from Terracycle & Parade gives a second life to your used undies.

What can you do with your underwear after you’re done using it?

Terracycle and Parade have launched a recycling program for your undies, called Second Life by Parade. The collected materials will be shredded into textile shoddy and made into materials used for acoustic insulation, bedding, carpet padding, furniture, and automotive underlayment.

How to recycle used underwear

It’s free to participate, and any brand of underwear (for any gender) qualifies. You can send new or used underwear, but no bras, bralettes, or swimsuits at this time. Make sure to wash the old apparel before you send it in.

Just sign up on Terracycle’s website to receive a free shipping label to send from your existing boxes or envelopes. Fill it up with clean old underwear, mail it back and it will be recycled.

Bonus: if you order the recycling kits through Parade’s website, you will receive 20% off for your completed recycling efforts.

If you only have a spare pair (or other materials) to recycle, you can consider other options like Retrievr or other clothing recycling programs.

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Julie Hancher is the co-founder and Executive Director of Green Philly, an independent media organization making sustainability accessible, affordable and actionable. Since launching Green Philly in 2008, she has grown it from a passion project into a leading voice for local climate storytelling, pairing impactful journalism with community events and experiences. Julie is a frequent speaker on climate, media innovation and the future of local journalism, and is the creator of SustainPHL and EcoFair. Outside of Green Philly, you can find her hiking, biking, traveling, or exploring Philadelphia. View all posts by Julie Hancher