The Best Sustainable Knitwear Brands | UK Guide

Knitwear: FAQs

Is wool ethical and sustainable?

Wool is a natural insulator and biodegradable, and is a completely renewable fibre due to sheep growing a fresh fleece every year. However there is much debate around its production. For many, the ethical considerations of wool hinge on the treatment of the animals. While shearing sheep, goats, or alpacas doesn't typically harm or kill them, recent exposés, like those by PETA, have highlighted mistreatment in certain sheep farms, raising concerns about the overall welfare of animals in wool production. It's crucial to source wool from farms where animals are treated humanely and farmers receive fair compensation. This is why supply chain transparency from brands is so important.

The Responsible Wool Standard (RWS) aims to improve the welfare of sheep ensuring the Five Freedoms of animal welfare are respected and that the land they graze on to protect soil health, biodiversity, and native species, so keep an eye out for this certification along with Responsible Mohair Standard (RMS), and Responsible Alpaca Standard (RAS).

Embracing recycled wool saves waste, conserves resources and can match new wool for quality and feel, or you can opt for vegan wools with other sustainable knitwear materials.

Vegan knitwear materials

If you'd like to consider alternative materials to wool, theres a range of options:

• Organic cotton (Ideally, GOTS Certified)
• Organic linen
• Tencel (made from eucalyptus wood pulp)
• Hemp and hemp blends
• Recycled or second hand synthetic materials (though these do still shed microfibres—consider buying a Guppyfriend wash bag).
  

Natural wool vs synthetic knitwear

Cost

Wool garments, while pricier upfront, offer long-term affordability. Their higher initial cost reflects quality materials and ethical production. However, sustainable knitwear doesn't always break the bank – prices vary across brands and styles, and preloved items offer budget-friendly options. Durable, timeless wool pieces often outlast fast fashion, making them cost-effective over time.

Performance

Wool's natural properties outshine synthetics in many ways. It's breathable, antibacterial, retains warmth even when wet, and is flame retardant. In contrast, low-quality synthetic garments may quickly develop odors, stain easily, and offer poor insulation. However, synthetics do have advantages in drying quicker and stretchiness.

Longer Lasting

Wool's natural resilience, due to its crimp and elasticity, resists wear, tearing, and mildew, outlasting synthetic fibres. Its structure prevents crushing and matting, sustaining its quality through continuous use. Consider a fast fashion jumper priced at £49.99, blending 30% natural and 70% synthetic yarns – you might get a few years of wear. In contrast, a 100% natural yarn jumper for £105, with proper care, could last much longer, possibly indefinitely.

Biodegradable

Wool's biodegradability is a significant plus. Unlike synthetics that can take 20 to 200 years to break down, wool decomposes much faster, reducing pollution in waterways and soil. This aspect underscores wool's eco-friendliness and aligns with a more sustainable approach to fashion.

The "Wear Wool, Not Fossil Fuel" campaign by The Woolmark Company below urges consumers to opt for wool to combat environmental issues associated with synthetic textiles. 

Are sustainable knitwear items more expensive?

Although sustainable knitwear may come with a higher price tag compared to its cheaper, synthetic fast fashion counterparts, this cost reflects the use of higher quality materials and ethical production methods. However not all sustainable knitwear comes with a hefty price tag, as prices can vary based on brand, quality, and design, especially when purchasing preloved items. Over time, the durability of high-quality made knitwear can provide better long-term value as they withstand years of wear.  It's time to channel our inner David Rose and cultivate a timeless knitwear collection that will keep you warm and snug for many years to come.

How to wash knitwear

Caring for knitwear properly is crucial to maintaining its quality and longevity. Here's a friendly guide on how to wash your knitwear effectively:

1. Wash Sparingly: Knitwear doesn't need frequent washing. A cool, gentle hand wash or wool wash setting is ideal, with minimal or no spinning.
2. Drying Technique: After washing, gently squeeze out excess moisture (rolling in a towel prevents stretching). Lay your knitwear flat to dry, avoiding direct heat to maintain its shape and quality.
3. Follow Care Labels: Always check the care instructions, as different materials require different care.
4. Choosing Detergents: Use mild, PH-neutral, and eco-friendly detergents. Steer clear of heavy-duty or bio detergents with enzymes, and avoid any containing bleach.
5. Water Temperature: Cold water is generally best to preserve the fabric's integrity and sustainability.
6. Air Drying: Let your knitwear air dry to keep it in top condition.
   

CLOTHES DOCTOR

Eco Wash for Cashmere & Wool Detergent

from £8.10

Expertly formulated Wool Detergent uses a gentle and softening formula that extends the life of your knitwear. It is lightly scented with Himalayan cedarwood and orange oil, to provide natural moth defence while doing your laundry. The perfect alternative to dry cleaning. Packaged in a plastic free, infinitely recyclable bottle.

How to care for your knitwear

Caring for your knitwear extends beyond just washing. Pilling is a natural side-effect of most knitwear, so it's certainly not time to throw it out1 An occasional, gentle brush with a pilling comb or fabric shaver will make it look good as new. For repairs, small holes can often be mended with a matching thread, preserving the garment's life. To keep your knits smelling fresh we love Clothes Doctor's Cedarwood & Vaniilla Knitwear Mist with additional moth-repellent properties. Regular, mindful care of your knitwear ensures it stays beautiful, functional, and soft for years.

How to store your knitwear

Storing your knitwear correctly is key to maintaining its shape and quality. Always fold your knitwear instead of hanging it, to prevent stretching. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight which can fade colours. For extra protection, use breathable storage bags or containers to keep them dust-free and use natural moth deterrents like cedar balls or lavender sachets in your wardrobe.

How to recycle your old knitwear

When it's time to part with your old knitwear in the UK, selling, donating or recycling old knitwear is an excellent way to contribute to a circular fashion economy.

1. Return - Some brands offer garment collection schemes, often providing discounts on future purchases as an incentive.
2. Sell - If it's still in wearable condition consider selling on a second-hand platform like eBay or Vinted.
3. Donate to charity or a secondhand clothing retailer.
4. Recycle - Check with your local council for textile recycling programs where you can drop off unwanted garments.

We hope you enjoyed our list of the best places to buy knitwear 🧶 in the UK. Where's your go-to for your jumpers and cardies?