Clothing producers are always striving to make apparel that is durable and fashionable. Among the many properties they look for as they pursue this goal is one that is not often discussed in the fashion press – odour control. It may not be a glamourous subject, but it is a vital one. As International Wool Textile Organisation (IWTO) reports, it is also an area in which wool is leading the way.
Wool’s Odour Resistance – Not Only a Matter of Personal Comfort
Australian Wool Innovation (AWI) recently ran a research project which emphasized wool’s superior odour-resistance qualities. However, it placed these qualities in a whole new light. While it is already widely accepted that wool has the ability to keep wearers feeling fresher for longer, and does not have to be washed as often as other fibres, the AWI study shows that these odour-resistance qualities also add to wool’s status as an eco-friendly fibre.
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Key Findings of the AWI Study
Conducted by AgResearch in New Zealand and Consumption Research Norway (SIFO), the study focused on energy consumption associated with washing garments made from different fibres. Volunteers were asked to wear base-layer and mid-layer garments made from three fibres: Merino wool, cotton and polyester. They were further asked to assess each garment’s odour to determine how many days they could be worn before needing to be washed.
In the end, wool garments required much less frequent washing than those made from the other two fibres. Cotton ranked second, while polyester clothing was found to require the most frequent washing. In addition to needing less washing, woollen clothing was also found to use less energy during laundering.
AWI Chief Executive Officer John Roberts commented, “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. This research reinforces our commitment to promoting sustainable practices within the wool industry and supporting Australian woolgrowers.”
The study also highlighted the importance of educating consumers about more sustainable laundering practices. Consumers need to know that their wool garments require much less washing, and thus be encouraged to wash their wool sweaters and other garments much less frequently.
AWI, like the IWTO, is committed to promoting all the qualities of wool – its durability, versatility, comfort, and sustainability. This latest study about wool’s odour control abilities and laundering requirements is an extremely useful reference in our ongoing efforts to make both producers and consumers in the fashion industry more aware of wool’s many virtues.
Learn More About the World’s Leading Woollen Apparel Producers on IWTO’s Website
For more information on the wool industry around the world, take a look at our fact sheets, statistics and guidelines.
We invite all stakeholders in the wool industry to join our Congress in Lille from 20 to 25 May 2025. Visit our website to find out more and to register.
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