Sustainable Underwear – What to Look For

Short answer: Sustainable underwear comes down to three things: a responsible material, credible certifications and a durability that means you buy less often. Bamboo viscose from certified bamboo is a good bet, as long as you also choose quality that lasts.

What makes underwear sustainable?

Look at the material first. Bamboo grows fast without irrigation and pesticides, but bamboo viscose is produced chemically, and the process varies from factory to factory. Read the honest review in is bamboo clothing sustainable? before you let the word "bamboo" stand alone as an argument.

Certifications you can trust

OEKO-TEX Standard 100 documents that the finished fabric has been tested for harmful chemicals – see our OEKO-TEX certified products. The FSC label documents responsibly grown bamboo – see FSC certified products.

Durability is the forgotten factor

The most sustainable underwear is the underwear you do not have to buy again six months from now. Quality underwear in bamboo viscose keeps its softness and shape for a long time – see the selection in bamboo underwear for women and bamboo underwear for men, and read why durability pays off in bamboo and economy.

Frequently asked questions

Is bamboo underwear 100 % sustainable?

No, no textile is. Bamboo is a fast growing crop, but the viscose process requires chemistry. Choose certified products and quality with a long life, and you have come a long way.

What does OEKO-TEX Standard 100 mean?

That the finished product has been tested for harmful chemicals and stays within the limit values. It says something about the product you wear against your skin – not about the entire production.

How do I make my underwear habits more sustainable?

Buy fewer and better pieces, wash at a low temperature, skip the tumble dryer and wear the underwear until it is worn out.