Sustainable underwear brands are on a mission to create the clothes they've always made with environmentally friendly materials and ethical practices. Specifically becoming a trend in intimate fashion, is organic cotton underwear. These garments take care of female intimate health while also caring for the environment using biodegradable fabrics and dyes that are tested for chemicals. Knickey is a New York-based brand that uses GOTS-certified organic cotton, ideal for both environmental and reproductive health reasons. The brand uses high-quality natural materials that biodegrade, and its factories are also Fair Trade certified. Its workers are safe because they prohibit the use of pesticides and only use natural fertilizers in their products. In addition, Knickey also partners with a New York recycling company to recycle old leggings, socks and underwear from other brands and keep them out of landfills.
Knickey’s Mission As around 300 people suffer from yeast infections each year, Knickey’s mission is to create safe undergarments for women that are made from 100% organic cotton. Yeast infections are caused by the use of synthetic fabrics like nylon, polyester, acrylic, and lycra, and harmful chemicals that are found in garments that haven’t been tested for harmful chemicals, as is verified by standards such as Standard 100 by OEKO-TEX®. Knickey presents its customers with a verified organic product which helps women to experience much less infections of their intimate areas. Most medical professionals recommend undergarments made from natural fibers over synthetic, due to their breathable qualities and its ability to prevent moisture retention. The best natural fibers that sustainable brands should take into account are cotton, hemp, wool, or linen, as these fabrics regulate heat and maintain proper airflow, leading to better comfort and hygiene.
Recycling Program Knickey also has an underwear recycling program for "retirement-ready underwear." Known as "The World's First Intimates Recycling Program", it has recycled more than 750,000 items so far to date according to their website. Hoping to divert as many pieces as possible from the landfill, Knickey promises to create 'ready-to-remove' intimate apparel. It receives underwear, bras, socks and tights, including for men and boys, as stated on its website, noting that people who send in their used underwear will receive a free pair of cotton panties as a thank you on their next order from the company.