Clothing

Keeping clothing from landfill

I work at a small hospital thrift store and hate to take bags of dirty, ripped clothing to the local landfill. Are there companies that can recycle these textiles?

If you have significant quantities you can post your supply on Recycle World or do a yellow-page search under "rags" or "wiping" categories. Hospitials are big sources for companies that cut what the industry calls "wipers."

Jana Hawley
Assistant professor
Department of Textile and Apparel Management

Charcoal capsule stains

How can I remove charcoal capsule stains from cotton clothing? I accidentally left a charcoal gelatin capsule in the pocket of my pants and it melted in the laundry.

I don't know of anything specific for charcoal, but you might try some of the standard stain removal products like Spray and Wash or Dawn Dishwashing liquid. Be careful that it doesn't also remove the color.

Sharon Stevens
Resident instruction assistant professor
Department of Textile and Apparel Management

Writing textile labels

I need to know the regulations of clothing labels in the United States. Could you please help me?

MU Extension publication MP712, Writing Labels for Textile Products gives information about US labeling laws. It is available from

University of Missouri
Exension Publications
2800 Maguire
Columbia, MO 65211

Request MP712. Cost is $2 per publication plus $l handling fee. Use your charge card to order by phone: 800-292-0969.

Sharon Stevens
Resident instruction assistant professor
Department of Textile and Apparel Management