The preparation for reuse is achieved through the sorting of used textiles. During this sorting process, interfering materials are removed, and secondly, necessary decisions are made for every single article regarding its wearability (durability) and marketability. The sorting of used textiles represents the only process in the entire waste management sector where waste is predominantly and significantly prepared for reuse.

Picture:      Requirements for the storage and sorting of used textiles

The sorting of used textiles is a complex, typically multi-stage process that, as of current technology, cannot be fully automated at its core. Modern sorting facilities often offer the possibility of automating internal transport processes; however, the preparation for reuse requires that each individual used textile is manually inspected and assessed by an expert sorter.