On cold days, there is hardly anything better than slipping into a warm wool sweater. But which sweater is a good choice?
Düsseldorf – How do I recognize a wool sweater that has been manufactured as sustainably as possible and is comfortable to wear? The North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) consumer advice center provides tips for buying woolen items:
Tip 1 – Pay attention to seals
Wool is a natural product. Compared to synthetic fibers, it has the advantage that it does not release any microplastics. But their production is not always environmentally and animal-friendly.
Therefore, according to the consumer center NRW, it makes sense to use organic wool. They can be recognized by seals such as the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) or the seal of the International Association of the Natural Textile Industry (IVN). There is also the Textile Exchange Responsible Wool Standard.
Tip 2 – Pick up the sweater
Cuddly or scratchy? This is difficult to find out from an online product description or a photo. The consumer center therefore advises sensitive people to buy woolens locally so that they can touch them beforehand.
Tip 3 – Do not wash the new piece directly
Off to the laundry? This often does not have to be the case with wool. Because odors can be easily ventilated. And: The fat in the wool has a stain-resistant effect. If the pullover has to be washed, then only with a special wool detergent and at low temperatures or even hand wash. So you can be sure that you will have something of the new wool sweater for a long time. dpa
