7 Best Sustainable Wool Sweaters That Keep The Planet Happy

The beginning of fall or autumn means it is time to upgrade your winter wardrobe with warm and cozy sweaters. For me, it will be a repurposed wool sweater, as recycled wool projects is one way to help the planet. It might make you wonder what is recycled wool and what is recycled wool fabric?

One way of helping the planet, is through recycling and reusing, and sustainable wool sweaters, made with recycled yarn, is a great way.

From an environmental viewpoint, recycled wool has a much smaller carbon footprint, than virgin wool. Wool might not be a vegan fabric, but it is naturally produced, and as such is much better for the environment than petroleum derived synthetics.

So why do we need to repurpose a wool sweater and what is recycled wool fabric?

This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links.

What Is Recycled Wool?

Recycled wool is produced by mechanically shredding old wool textiles, and respinning the fibers into new yarn. Both pre consumer textiles, like scraps, and post consumer sources, such as returned or unsold garments, are recycled.Logo for Global Recycled Standard to repurpose a wool sweater

Mechanically recycled fibers can be spun on a carded spinning machine to get yarns for fabric. Apart from sheep’s wool, cashmere, alpaca and angora can also be recycled.

Wool is a natural and a renewable fiber, and is one of the most recycled fibers. Recycled wool has the same great qualities as virgin wool, but at a fraction of the environmental cost.

Producing wool is a labor intensive job. Recycling extends the life span of fiber that has already been produced.

Processing of new wool is discussed in this related post on What is Wool.

One of the biggest impacts of wool, comes from the methane released by sheep growing it. This is why it is important to look at ways to repurpose a wool sweater and other textiles.

Recycled Wool Projects

Wool is readily recyclable with well-established ways. Prato, near Florence in Italy, is home to the European center for recycled wool. Recycling of wool has been taking place there since the early 19th century.

Old garments and textiles are manually sorted by color and type of fabric (knitted or woven). Any trimmings like zips, buttons and linings are removed.Recycled wool projects start with sorting the garments by color

New yarn can then be produced without an additional dyeing process. To attain a specific color, small amounts of freshly dyed fibers can be added.

There are 3 main routes how wool is recycled:

  • Closed loop system: A mechanical process, with a special cutting machine, rips the fabric and takes garments back to the raw fiber state. The fiber is turned into yarn again, to produce new products. This is particularly suitable for recycling wool knitwear.
  • Open loop system: Wool from previous products, forms the basis for a new product. These are usually industrial products like thermal insulation, acoustic insulation and mattress padding.
  • Re-engineering: Designers get creative and recycle or repurpose a wool sweater and unsold items into new products. This could be making a bag out of an old jacket, or a skirt out of a blanket. Production waste, like trimmings, can also be used to make new items. Wool is valuable, so nothing goes to waste.

You don’t lose any of the beneficial properties of wool when you recycle it, making it ideal for producing sustainable wool sweaters.

Reasons To Repurpose a Wool Sweater

Pre and post consumer waste can be used for recycled wool projects.

  • Repurposed wool is sustainable and is a good alternative to virgin wool.
  • Recycling reduces waste and prevents products from going into landfill, thus offering a positive alternative to virgin wool.
  • Recycled wool saves a considerable amount of water, reduce the need to use land for sheep grazing and avoids the use of chemicals for dyeing.
  • It contributes to a reduction of air, water and soil pollution.
    • Every kilogram of recycled wool saves 11 kg of CO2 compared to virgin wool.
    • Every kilogram of recycled wool saves 500 liters of water, compared to virgin wool.
  • Recycled wool respects animal welfare.

Wool is naturally durable and can easily last 20 – 30 years or longer, if looked after. This reduces the environmental footprint of wool.

What is recycled wool fabric, is also called reclaimed wool or repurposed wool. Warm and cozy sweaters, like a repurposed wool sweater made from recycled wool, saves resources and keep you warm.

Properties Of Wool

Wool comes from the fleece of sheep and is a natural, renewable fiber. It has many excellent qualities:

  • Wool is naturally breathable, resilient and versatile. Warm and cozy cape made from what is recycled wool
  • It is completely biodegradable.
  • Wool fiber is hygroscopic, so it draws moisture away from the body and absorbs it inside the fiber.
  • Because of the hygroscopic properties, wool is a very good insulator and allows your skin to breathe.
  • Wool can absorb up to 30% of its weight in water, before it actually feels wet.
  • The outer layer of wool fibers have scales, which makes it difficult for dirt and dust to penetrate. This makes wool stain resistant and easier to clean than many other fabrics.
  • Wool is fire resistant and will not burn easily. It will smolder, rather than burst into flames. It doesn’t melt and stick to your skin like synthetic fabrics.
  • Wool is very easy to recycle and is one of the most recycled fibers in the world.
  • It is naturally water repellent.
  • Wool absorbs moisture from the air, thus, there is less build-up of static electricity in the fabric.
  • It naturally insulates and regulates temperature in all conditions.
  • It absorbs odors.

Man-made fabrics do not match the distinctive properties of wool. Wool is a natural insulator and regulates body temperature, two qualities that synthetic fibers do not have.

Benefits Of Sustainable Wool Sweaters

The properties of wool, make it beneficial to use in warm and cozy sweaters and clothing.

  • Wool is grown, not made. Sheep grow a new fleece every year, so it is natural, renewable and sustainable.
  • Because wool is breathable, it is cozy and comfortable to wear.
  • Wool’s natural structure allows it to absorb and release water vapor into the atmosphere. Therefore, it keeps you warm in winter.
  • No chemicals are required to turn it into clothing.
  • Wool is durable and hard wearing and will keep its good appearance for a long time if you look after it.
  • Wool can be knitted or woven into many textures and styles.
  • Less energy is required to make wool yarn, than man-made fibers.
  • Wool has a high nitrogen content and when disposed of, will decompose in a few years. So it could act as a fertilizer.

The most popular wool for clothing, is merino wool. Merino sheep have wrinkly skin, which mean they provide more wool than other types of sheep. It is also the softest sheep’s wool and without any itchiness.

There are lobbyists that argue that sheep are not treated humanely. But there are certifications to ensure good animal husbandry is followed.

Certification Of Wool

The International Wool Textile Organization (IWTO) tests wool and issue certificates for quality.

The Responsible Wool Standard (RWS) is a voluntary standard that addresses the welfare of sheep and the land they graze on. The goal is to provide the industry with a tool to recognize the best practices of farmers.

Responsible Wool Standard logo

This ensures that wool comes from sheep that have been treated responsibly and without harm. It also ensures that farmers have a progressive approach to managing their land, with strong animal welfare and soil protection practices.

Responsible Wool Standard helps farmers to meet consumer, retailer and brand demands. It bans museling.

ZQ is a wool certification standard that stands for a better quality of life for animals, people and our planet. This ensures sustainable, ethical and traceable wool.

Alpaca wool is generally regarded as eco friendly wool. This is because alpacas are more efficient eaters, and as such, do not destroy their environment in the same way that many other livestock do.

Alpacas are related to camels and most of the world’s alpaca population is still raised in Peru in their natural habitat. Generally speaking, Peruvian farmers still raise their animals more humanely.

So do look out for brands that use certified wool or recycled wool.

The Best Sustainable Wool Sweaters

So, whether you like it or not, colder weather creeps up and you need warm and cozy sweaters to keep you comfortable all through the season.

The climate crisis means many consumers want to be greener in every aspect of their lives, and that includes your winter wardrobe. With these eco friendly brands, there is no need to sacrifice style for sustainability.

Thought 

Thought is an all-natural company that produces timeless fashion using recycled wool, organic cotton and sustainable fabrics. They blend what is recycled wool with organic cotton to create luxuriously soft knitwear and cozy winter coats.

You have several options to choose from: recycled wool projects from Thought eco friendly clothing

  • Recycled wool jumper: 55% recycled wool, 25% lambswool and 20% nylon.
  • Jacket made with what is recycled wool fabric: 95% recycled polyester, 5% recycled wool.
  • Organic cotton and wool blend is made with 15 % wool and 85% organic cotton to create luxuriously soft knitwear.
  • Warm and cozy sweaters and cardigans with a blend of 80% lambswool and 20% nylon.
  • Bamboo wool is a blend of 20% recycled wool and 80% bamboo.
  • Thick warm socks in a blend of 60% wool, 15 % recycled nylon, 22% recycled polyester and 3% elastane.

All recycled materials are Global Recycled Standard (GRS) certified.

Thought use recycled paper for labels and mailing bags and garment bags are made from compostable corn starch.

Thought has partnered with Traid, a UK charity that has a recycling program. They will take your preloved clothes and repurpose a wool sweater.

Traid works to minimize, improve and transform the impact clothes manufacturing has on the environment. They provide recycling bins and charity shops. This partnership promotes circular fashion economy and gives unwanted clothes a new life.

Thought clothing uses what is recycled wool for warm and cosy sweatersOrganic Basics

Organic Basics is a Danish brand that specialize in everyday basics, active wear and underwear. Repurpose wool sweater from Organic BasicsThey use recycled materials and organic cotton. Sustainability is at the core of what Organic Basics do.

They use both recycled wool and recycled cashmere for their sustainable wool sweaters.

  • Recycled wool is made from pre consumer garments that would have ended up in landfill. So waste is diverted from going into landfill, and recycled to make men merino wool jumpers.
  • Recycled cashmere is made in Italy from well-worn cashmere garments. The old garments are shredded and then re spun into new yarn. Recycled cashmere is Global Recycled Standard (GRS) certified and is made without the use of chemicals or dyes.

100% Recycled wool and recycled cashmere have a much smaller carbon footprint than new wool and cashmere. Carbon emissions are reduced by 95% compared with virgin wool.

Apart from a repurposed wool sweater, you can also get beanies, scarves and socks as recycled wool projects they produce. Get a repurpose wool sweater from Organic Basics

PrAna

PrAna is an ethical North American company that only uses sustainable fabrics and ethical practices. They do a full range of yoga, climbing, hiking, traveling and active wear for men and women.

warm and cozy sweaters from recycled wool

PrAna uses recycled wool made in Prato. 24% of their wool styles are made with what is recycled wool. When they use virgin wool, it comes from farmers that meet the Responsible Wool Standard (RWS).

You have different blends to choose from:

  • Sustainable wool sweaters for men and women are made with 48% recycled wool, 47% recycled polyester and 5% other fibers.
  • Men merino wool jumpers are made with merino wool blended with organic cotton.
  • Ladies sweaters with 44% recycled polyester, 37% recycled wool, 13% recycled nylon, 3% elastane and 3% other fibers.

Farms and production facilities are Fair Trade certified, ensuring workers are all paid a fair wage and they have safe working conditions.

Shop a repurpose wool sweater from prAnaVitamin A

Vitamin A believes style and sustainability are inseparable. Apart from their signature swimwear, they also produce leisure wear in linen and recycled cashmere. Vitamin A recycled wool projects using recycled cashmere

Vitamin A Clean Cashmere is a fresh take on cashmere and is sustainably made in California from recycled Italian yarn.

The recycled cashmere is a blend of 95% recycled cashmere and 5% wool. It is super soft and used to make sweaters and lounge pants.

The soft wide-rib fabric is used in a V-neck sweater and pants and are priced at $225 and $250 respectively. It has a boxy, slightly over sized fit and is available in grey or cream and in sizes XS to L.

Recycled cashmere uses a water saving, closed-loop process. Recycled cashmere is hypoallergenic and breathable and 3 times warmer than virgin wool. Clean cashmere garments should only be dry-cleaned.

The positive impact of buying a repurposed wool sweater, is that waste is diverted and carbon emissions avoided.

Vitamin A is a member of 1% For The Planet, a charity who gives back to organizations who work to protect our oceans and the environment.

Shop recycled cashmere sweater from Vitamin ABeaumont Organics

Beaumont Organics is a British based organic and ethical clothing company that was started in 2008. Recycled wool projects from Beaumont Organics include sweaters and trousersThey create contemporary conscious clothing for the modern woman.

Beaumont Organics use recycled wool, alpaca and virgin wool. Alpaca has a slightly different appearance to merino wool and looks softer and fluffier.

All alpaca knitwear is made from brushed alpaca, which is softer than normal wool, making it perfect for warm and cozy sweaters. Compared to normal wool, it has no piling, so looks new and good for a very long time.

With Beaumont Organics you have a choice of:

  • Blend of alpaca and recycled wool is used for sustainable wool sweaters, trousers, cardigans and skirts. It is made from 45% alpaca, 40% recycled wool and 15% nylon.
  • Alpaca jumpers, scarves and hats are also produced.
  • Virgin wool sweaters and garments using RWS wool.

Knitwear is ethically made in Portugal and alpaca is sourced in Peru. Beaumont Organics call their alpaca and what is recycled wool fabric “affordable luxury”, with prices starting at £175 for a skirt.

Shop Beaumont Organics for recycled wool projectsAllbirds

Allbirds, the popular sustainable footwear brand, has expanded into apparel. Apart from wool shoes, you can now get warm and cozy sweaters, caps, beanies and scarves from Allbirds. They have everything to keep the cold out. Allbirds men merino wool jumpers

Men merino wool jumpers are made with 100% QZ certified merino wool. QZ is the leading organization to ensure wool is produced to high standards of farming, land management and animal welfare.

It has a double knit structure and a thicker gauge yarn.

Merino wool is super soft and cozy and treads lighter on the planet than synthetic materials.

The wool cardigan is independently tested for any harmful substances. This is done to the strict global criteria of standard 100 by OEKO-Tex

Buttons are crafted from recycled polyester.

Sweaters, cardigans and jumpers are made with responsibly sourced merino wool. Puffer jackets are made with a blend of merino wool, recycled polyester and nylon and Tencel cellulose fiber.

Sweaters are knitted in China, where their partner ensures that excess yarn is recycled and reused, so that nothing goes to waste.

Allbirds has a carbon footprint tool to measure their impact on the environment. All Allbirds garments are carbon neutral, due to a combination of sustainable practices, like using natural materials and carbon credits.

Shop Allbirds men merino wool jumpers

Gentle Herd

Gentle Herd fuse natural materials with urban style to create luxurious garments from wool and cashmere to suit any occasion. Wool and cashmere are sourced from inner Mongolia. This area has abundant grass and water. Sustainable cashmere sweater from Gentle Herd

Animal welfare is a huge priority for Gentle Herd. They have strict codes of practice to protect their sheep and goats. The size of the herd and their grazing are both vigorously controlled and monitored.

Fair Trade practices are upheld and no animals are harmed in the making of their products. Their mission is to deliver the finest sustainable and ethical wool and cashmere garments to you.

Apart from taking care of their animals, they also take care of their workers. Standardized practices for breeding, shearing, feeding and transporting livestock have been established. This keeps the farming community thriving and prosperous.

Throughout the process, from sourcing to production to distribution, sustainable practices are used. Gentle Herd is transparent about what goes into their garments.

Gentle Herd is perfect for fashionistas that value high quality. The long-lasting garments are classic and refined and represents their ethos of environmentally friendly lifestyle.

Apart from cashmere and wool, Gentle Herd also uses Yak wool and camel hair, both sustainable wool options. Undyed cashmere is also available. Worldwide shipping is available for the sustainable wool garments.

Shop Sustainable wool garments from Gentle Herd

Final Thoughts On Sustainable Wool Sweaters

Wool is one of the world’s most sustainable fibers for reuse. So, don’t chuck your old sweaters, they are perfect to be used in recycled wool projects. To repurpose a wool sweater, is easy and kind to the planet.

With a climate crisis threatening our planet, we should all think green and take action. So get a repurposed wool sweater this winter.

Artisan and rural communities often rely on the income they receive from sheep farming and the wool they produce. It is therefore important to remember it provides a livelihood to farmers, even if it is not vegan.

If you have any comments or suggestions about what is recycled wool fabric, then please leave them below

52 thoughts on “7 Best Sustainable Wool Sweaters That Keep The Planet Happy”

  1. Hey there! I have just finished checking out your article about sustainable wool sweaters and it was a pretty interesting read.  It is really good to see fashion being discussed in an eco friendly light. 

    I have been trying to make more conscious choices in my wardrobe, and your post has given me some cool ideas.

    Do you mind if I ask you, do you have any personal favorites among these brands? Or any tips for first time buyers of sustainable wool sweaters? 

    Thanks for sharing.

    Reply
    • When buying a sustainable wool sweater, I would select a timeless classic that will last you for many years. These brands all offer very good value for money, and your favourite choice will depend on the style that you prefer. I support all these brands, and I am sure you will find something that is suitable for your needs.

      Reply
  2. I love wool sweaters. Period. To me , wool is one of the safest fabrics in this planet. It’s natural, versatile, and I can testify that it absorbs odors easily. Actually, when I was in high school, I had some heavy wool sweaters. During the day, we would go in rooms where the heating was quite high and we would sweat; but when we got out, I was already dry, with no sweat smell. Unlike my friends unfortunately… 

    Reply
    • I agree with you that wool is so much nicer to wear than any synthetic fabrics. It is good to hear about your positive experiences with wearing wool. All the best.

      Reply
  3. Hello plz

    I am Sirjana Adhikari, a felt maker, from Nepal. I have been manufacturing felt products for 15 years. The felt products like rug , dryer balls, cat cave, soap nuts,shoes & All types of felt products are 100% NZ sheep wool and are made with experienced hands.

    We can provide you with the products with the best quality with the minimal price that cost you less. We can deliver the products in time as we have experienced working hands.

    Reply
  4. I believe in taking care of our ecosystem and mother earth and this I why I am a strong proponent of the “REDUCE, REUSE, RECYCLE” means of waste management. We should all be encouraged to help in any way we can and this includes using recycled wool fabric for sweaters this winter season.

    I live in one of the 2 coldest places in our country and so shopping for winter clothes like sweaters and jackets has become a norm in the months of October to November. 

    Thanks for sharing all this essential information about wool recycling and the benefits of recycled wool sweaters. More importantly, we have been looking for the best places to shop for eco-friendly wool fabric. It’s really nice to know that there are shops such as Thought, Organic Basics, Vitamin A, Gentle Heard, etc, that offer sustainable activewear made of recycled wool. 

    Reply
    • Using recycled and reclaimed materials, like wool, does help to prevent clothing from ending up in landfill. It is a great way to become more sustainable. By supporting brands that use eco-friendly materials, we can prioritize our social and environmental responsibility. 

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  5. I can’t explain how much I love wool products. My grandma use to make winter gloves and winter socks, and much more. I still wear them and how they protect from the cold. Definitely the best material for winter. I will wear them forever and ever, not just because it is a good material, but because they heat the best.

    Reply
    • Wool is indeed one of the best insulators of heat, and what is even better, is that it is a natural fiber. There is nothing better than wearing handknitted wool garments. 

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  6. Thank you Liné for this detailed article. I can’t imagine the time you dedicated on this. I am truly amazed by how this blog explained well the advantages of wearing wool sweater made out of repurposed wool. Clueless that wool can be recycled and how wool recycling can reduced pollutions. I am one of those who buys wool sweaters as a gift without even considering a way to help our environment. It is indeed a good idea to start buying clothes from these eco friendly brands. 

    Reply
    • Recycling wool is very easy and has been done for many years. It is a sustainable way of reusing wool, rather than using a virgin fiber. 

      Reply
  7. As a nation, we are very aware of the planet and how we can help so by buying sustainable wool is a great idea!

    I wasn’t aware of it until I read your article and I love to keep warm. I do feel the cold but I also like to feel like I can breath whilst being wrapped up too.

    Sometimes sweaters are too warm for me so I tend to wear layers. One item I do love to wear are the wooden shawls. A great item when a coat may be too heavy and love the fact that wool can be so many different colours to brighten up any outfit. 

    I never realised there were so many benefits to wearing wool either so thanks for sharing your article.

    Reply
    • Dressing in layers works very well if you are in an area where the temperature fluctuates a lot. Personally I find that wool keeps me warm, but because it is breathable, it is very comfortable to wear. Buying sustainable and recycled wool products will keep you warm and happy, while also looking after the environment. 

      Reply
  8. I love wool clothing because of how comfortable and soothing they feel on the body. Some wool clothings are good for all season and weather. Especially for my children, they love cuddling up in wool blankets. It’s good to know that wool materials such as sweaters can be recycled and repurposed. I enjoyed reading through this article. Thanks for sharing 

    Reply
    • If you look after wool clothing and bedding, it can last for many years. Wool can also be recycled and repurposed to extend the life of the wool. All the best.

      Reply
  9. I am a big lover of a cosy wool jumper. My biggest issue is bobbling, even with more expensive pure wool / cashmere mixes. I suspect that recycled wool will be less prone to bobbling, do you know if you still need to follow the same ‘gentle wash care’ instructions? Where and if at all possible, I think we all need to collectively look at how our clothes are being made and try to make the sustainable choice – before purchasing. Thanks for sharing.

    Reply
    • It is best to follow the care instructions on the label of your clothes. Recycling wool doesn’t change the structure of the fiber, so the care instructions would be the same for new and recycled wool. I hope it helps. 

      Reply
  10. What a great read, I love it!

    Honestly, I didn’t know about recycled wool projects. Wow, that’s incredible.

    Wool is fantastic, soft, breathable, and comfortable. It also looks nice.

    Many people forget about the benefits of wearing wool clothes. They’d rather spend their money on stuff made of synthetic materials.

    I am going to explore sustainable wool sweaters more. Thank you for the article!

    Reply
    • Wool is one of the easiest natural fibers to recycle, and a fiber that has been used for centuries. To keep you warm, there is nothing that beats wool. And even better if it is a recycled wool sweater. 

      Reply
  11. What fantastic idea sustainable wool sweaters with Christmas right on top of us. I am a great supporter of renewable, sustainable, and eco-friendly products. In fact, I have a blog called topportablesolarpanels.com that highlights environmentally friendly solar power.

    I was looking for a Christmas jumper for my wife so I will take a look at Beaumont Organics website

    Reply
    • I am sure your wife will enjoy an eco friendly sustainable Christmas gift and with winter upon us, a stylish and cozy sweater from Beaumont Organics sounds perfect.
      I’ll check out your site.

      Reply
  12. I think it’s really cold over here now and I think I will be needing some sweater and I will also describe this website to some of my friends who I know needing some good sweater and don’t know where to find the better best one online.  And  I like the articles of the website and it’s properly easy to read and understand. 

    Reply
  13. I grew up on the family farm which maintained a small sheep herd, so wool production has always been close to my heart. I love many of the characteristics of good wool products, especially when it comes to keeping warm in the winter.  There are many synthetic products out on the market today but despite all the science behind them I still find wool to be one of the best materials available. I’ve never really considered recycling wool, but because of its durability and longevity I can totally see why that makes sense. Thank you for sharing, I’ll have to check out some of the sites you suggested.

    Reply
    • Synthetic fabrics do not have the unique properties of wool. Recycling wool is easy and have been done for many years in the Prato area of Italy. By using recycled wool, we can save fabric waste from going into landfill and extend the life of the fibers. 

      Reply
  14. very cool idea and love the end result products too, i m big on recycling and living as green as possible and this is certainty an amazing alternative to all the commercial stuff you can find on the market! 

    Also liked the care for the welfare of the animals the wool is taken from and the recycling ideas of wool products!

    Reply
    • Recycled wool projects are great and I love the repurposed wool sweater that I have. I agree with you that what is recycled wool fabric, is an awesome alternative to a lot of the commercial stuff available. I am sure you will love a warm and cozy sweater made from recycled wool. All the best, Liné

      Reply
  15. I always thought that wool sweaters are “heavy” and I can’t wear them because I will be sweat in them. Recently I’ve found out that none of this is true and today I encountered your text. I also didn’t know that there is recycled woolen fabric at all! Very informative!

    Reply
    • Wool is breathable and very comfortable to wear. It can be very fine and lightweight, to thick and heavy, depending on the ply and knit or weave that is used. Recycled wool is far better for the environment than virgin materials, and is durable and soft. All the best, Liné 

      Reply
  16. Wow, what a great article. I had no idea that there was so much information on wool. You have really schooled me today.  I find it fascinating. I didn’t realize there were different types of sheep with different wool such as the merino sheep. And I also didn’t know that Alpaca was considered wool. 

    I like finding out that there is a certification for humane treatment of the sheep and alpaca.

    You can bet my next sweater will be made with recycled wool.  Thanks for all the listings of where I can purchase items made with recycled wool, alpaca, cotton, and cashmere.

    Reply
    • Recycled wool is soft and durable, and is kind to the planet. Not that you know what is recycled wool fabric, I am sure you will enjoy wearing warm and cozy sweaters made from recycled wool. All the best, Liné

      Reply
  17. Recycling is a nice way to reduce waste and recycled wool these days are very important to keep our environment clean also supports the rural population who are depending on sheep (the main source of natural Wool). In order to reduce the use of synthetic wool, we must encourage the companies to use more recycled wool. Apart from sheep’s wool, cashmere, alpaca, and angora, all these types are recycled. Recycled wools are more skin-friendly and reduce carbon emissions and save the planet’s water. Wool is the necessary garment in these winter seasons and natural insulator and regulates body temperature. These days many new designers sweaters are made from recycled wool and they all maintained the RWS standards. Thanks, Line Cowley for a detailed post on Recycled Wool and all the different options to purchase form.

    Reply
    • Wool is one of the easiest fibers to recycle and should be recycled more. Recycled wool is far more sustainable than virgin materials and leaves a fra smaller carbon footprint than petroleum derived synthetics. 

      Reply
  18. Interesting article about the sustainability of wool. I never even realized that it could be recycled or even thought about it as a matter of fact, but it certainly makes a lot of sense. I am surprised to hear that clothing made of wool can last twenty years or longer.  I have yet to find this, as eventually the wool gets little balls on it and the item starts to look tatty.

    Reply
    • Wool can last for many years if it is looked after. Pilling can occur in certain garments and one can get a “shaving” tool to remove the little balls to make the garment look new for much longer. I hope that helps. 

      Reply
  19. I love everything that helps to save our planet.  Thank you for this great post.  I learned so much from your post, I did not know wool can be recycled.  That is so cool.  In future all my old wool garments will be sent for recycling, thank you so much.  

    Your information on all the different brands and companies are in dept.  Also how wool is recycled is really interesting.  We just started with summer on my side of the world.  But come winter I’ll be sure to bookmark your page for a new “old” sweater for sure.  

    Reply
    • Recycled wool projects is certainly an awesome way to help the planet and it is very easy to repurpose a wool sweater. So do send your old wool garments for recycling and enjoy your new “old” sweater. 

      Reply
  20. I think that this is a wonderful idea and I really enjoyed reading about the process. I can now see that we should all be recycling and reusing our wool garments, what a waste for them to go into landfills. My only negative about these garments is the earthy colors that they all seem to have when recycled and the styles always seem very unflattering to most women. I’m sure if these companies designed garments to flatter women they would have many more sales as this is a wonderful resource worth improving on.

    Reply
    • Designs do vary from brand to brand, but most colors are neutral or earthy. This is because additional dyes are not added. I agree that more flattering styles will increase sales of these sustainable wool sweaters. 

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  21. I just loved reading your article on Sustainable Wool Sweaters ! To be honest I didn’t even know this was a thing, but with our planet experiencing so much climate crisis at the moment it’s something I would love to support.

    Wool is my preferred winter texture and I have many winter woolen garments in my closet so the thought that I can buy garments made from recycled wool is a really comforting,  ~ I can wear recycled wool knowing I am helping the planet and I can also offer my used woolen garments for recycling after I know longer need them. Every little bit we can do for the planet will help. Thanks  so much for a really helpful article!

    Reply
    • Wool is great to wear, as it insulates the body, but is also breathable, so you always feel comfortable wearing wool. You can certainly donate your old wool clothing and to repurpose a wool sweater is easy, and helps the environment. 

      Do look out for what is recycled wool fabric being used in clothing, and these brands are a great starting point. All the best, Liné

      Reply
  22. From studies, The natural health benefits of wearing wool are said to be massive. Not only is it very warm, I’ve learnt it can also improve my sleep, help with skin conditions, has antibacterial properties and is suggested to help with asthma. … Wool is the new mud-mask and it’s here to stay.

    Reply
    • I am not sure what you mean by new “mud-mask”, but wool certainly has many beneficial properties. When you repurpose a wool sweater, you do not lose any of the beneficial properties of wool. Recycling is far better for the environment than producing virgin materials. All the best, Liné

      Reply
  23. Wow, what a detailed review and explanation. I always thought vegan was an eating thing, not sure how wool is vegan or not. I live in Texas where its only cold enough for a sweater probably 2 or 3 times a year, and definitely not a wool sweater. Unfortunately the stores around here all carry them and they are pretty. I’ll keep an eye out for recycled wool garments from now on; doing by bit to help the environment. 

    Reply
    • Wool sweaters are warm, but also breathable, so far more comfortable to wear than a synthetic sweater. 

      Vegan is a food thing yes, but some vegans will not wear any textiles derived from animals. So that would include wool, silk and leather. Recycled wool leaves a much smaller carbon footprint, than petroleum derived synthetics, so I will recommend looking for a repurposed wool sweater. 

      Reply
  24. Hi Line, Sustainable Wool Sweaters as a natural fibre does not shed microplastics which can negatively affect ocean health. The traditional way sustainable wool was used, consisted of taking the clippings of the sheep’s fleece and working it by hand into yarn for knitting but today there are machines doing most of this work, including the knitting.

    Sustainable wool is among the best choices for our textiles, from sweaters or clothing to blankets. Sweaters made of sustainable wool will keep you comfy and cozy, and the earth comfy and cozy as well.

    Thanks for sharing great companies to buy wool sweaters.  I think all these brands are worth considering when looking for wool sweaters.

    Reply
    • Hi there, to repurpose a wool sweater is much kinder to the environment, than making new materials. What is recycled wool fabric has a variety of uses, and is far more sustainable, than petroleum derived synthetics. All the best, Liné

      Reply
  25. I live in an area that is always warm and I will never need a sweater.  But my dad lives in Alaska, and I don’t ever have warm things to wear.  I end up borrowing his warm sweaters, which you know don’t really fit me right LOL.  So having a couple on hand would be wonderful as I do visit him several times a year.

    Reply
    • One can never go wrong with having your own warm and cozy sweaters, even if you only use it for visiting your dad in Alaska or other holidays. Your dad might appreciate one of the men merino wool jumpers next time you visit him. All the best, Liné

      Reply
  26. Hi Liné:

    Recycling is an essential part of any industry these days, where raw materials are becoming scarce. Wool is an excellent choice to consider. These fine products are not only beautiful, but their transformation produces an added value. Winter is just around the corner; they will be an excellent option and a very appreciated gift. 

    Cesar M

    Reply
    • Hi Cesar, Sustainable wool sweaters certainly make an ideal gift, and by using recycled wool, it saves textile waste going into landfill.All the best, Liné

      Reply

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