Wool wins in washing frequency research exercise
A research team in New Zealand has confirmed the environmental benefits of wool’s natural resistance to odour.
A new research project at Canterbury-based AgResearch, funded by Australian Wool Innovation (AWI), focused on the energy consumption associated with laundering garments made from different fibre types.
Volunteers participated in the study, wearing baselayer and midlayer garments and socks made from merino wool, cotton, and polyester. Participants recorded the number of days each product could be worn before laundering was necessary.
Wool garments required the least frequent laundering, followed by cotton, with polyester garments needing the most frequent washing.
Over the course of a year, wool garments demonstrated the lowest energy consumption during laundering, making them the most environmentally friendly option, AWI said.
Chief executive of the wool promotions body, John Roberts, said: “We are delighted with the results, which further highlight the environmental benefits of wool. Wool’s natural odour resistance and reduced laundering frequency make it an excellent choice for environmentally conscious consumers.”
