In a world where almost every new item of clothing is declared to be essential, sustainable knitwear truly stands out as indispensable. It protects us against the elements, regulates our body temperature and there are options for every season. But when greenwashing is rife, how do you know which knits are sustainable?
Research shows that wool knitwear has the longest lifespan in our wardrobe, which represents quality and sustainability. Not only that, wool is a biodegradable natural fiber. As people become more aware of the environment and climate, there is increasing demand for durable and fair clothing.
Natural fibers over synthetic
In recent decades, the knitwear market has been flooded with synthetic fibers like polyester and nylon. Derived from non-renewable fossil fuels and known to pollute our natural environment and oceans by shedding microplastics, they cause many layers of environmental harm.
Natural fibers on the other hand will naturally biodegrade in the environment, won’t shed microplastics and, unlike synthetics, act to regulate the body’s temperature keeping you comfortable year-round. Wool is also known to be antimicrobial, so your clothes stay fresh. And cultivating natural fibers isn’t just ‘less bad’, in many cases it’s an actively positive force for the environment.
You can also read: Artisan knitting vs Industrial knitting
Traceability and transparency
Traceability and transparency are important to ensure that high animal welfare and environmental standards are maintained. Some natural fibers are grown and processed using chemicals and pesticides or are cultivated on land which has been stripped of its biodiversity. Look out for certifications like GOTS, Climate Beneficial, ZQ and ZQRX when shopping for knitwear.
Upcycled and recycled knits
The upcycling and recycling trend is great news for sustainability. It makes use of resources which already exist, and prevents valuable materials from going to waste.
Recycled wool allows you to enjoy the warmth and high quality of natural fiber without guilt, as you are not resorting to synthetic alternatives. However, it is important to be aware that products made from recycled materials may only contain a small proportion of recycled materials, mixed with new "virgin" materials.
High quality fibers
Investing in high quality fibers is the difference between a piece lasting for months or decades. Low quality fibers are prone to stretching and pilling, whereas high quality fibers maintain their structure much better.
Timeless design
Microtrends are the antithesis to sustainability as they encourage a wasteful buy-discard-buy again cycle. Choosing timeless designs over trends is the true antidote because the pieces will never look dated. Classic lightweight crews, v-neck cardis and sweaters, layering-friendly roll necks, and versatile wraps have stood the test of time for decades.
Repairing or replacing
The most sustainable knitwear is the knitwear you already own, so if your favorite piece develops a pull or a hole, the best thing you can do is repair it and keep it in circulation for years to come.
If you purchased a wool knit sweater, it is important to take proper care of it. Use special, ecological wool detergents and wash the garments at the lowest temperature or preferably by hand. Also avoid wringing or ironing wool, as this can damage the fibers. Instead, gently squeeze them out and let them air dry on a hanger.
Sustainable knitwear and wool
To summarize, wool can be a wonderful material if it is vintage or recycled, thereby avoiding animal suffering. Especially for knit sweaters, recycled wool is excellent when mixed with other recycled materials, and becomes even softer and more comfortable when mixed with recycled cashmere.
Contact us if you want to obtain alpaca knitwear! We have the certification of Fair Trade Good Practices in Peru and we can help you with any doubt.
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