I shop at thrift stores as well, sometimes it's hard to be polite when people ASK what your intended purpose is. I usually say I recycle it, if they ask "into what?" I'll say quilts. If they seem annoyed I have been known to say "If you didn't want to hear the answer... why did you ask the question? Mostly I just tell myself they forgot to take their medication today. I said that out loud once and the lady looked at me like she was trying to remember if she did or not. Our thrift stores have volunteers, some are there because they REALLY want to help, others are there being nosy to see WHO comes in to BUY things (those are the askers... Its a gossip game) Very rarely do you find good clothing. because most people are buying from discount marts, it is sad to see what some people will donate. The better clothing is old and outdated, so don't feel bad recycling, that's what quilters have done for years.