Reducing our Footprint

Step 2: Wear & Care

1. Returns

  • Providing a clear and detailed description of each product is a must including high-quality imagery

  • Provide as much sizing information as possible. Tables with the correspondence of dimensional grids are insufficient. Measure all apparel parameters and provide this information to the buyer, including the smallest details such as pocket-size, zipper length and armpit distance.

  • Digital fit and sizing solutions can help customers find the perfect size

  • Consumer reviews for fit, uploading fit photos

  • Show product color in different lighting

  • Charge for returns

    Add product videos

  • Enhance customer support

  • Deliver on time and intact

  • Ship to store to limit return logistics footprint

  • Virtual fitting room

  • Data analysis on reasons for returns

  • Services that encourage resale or repair

  • Extend return policy – then company sells return as used item.

  • Packaging that can be repurposed for returns

  • Return to recycle, when best option

2. Washing/Drying

  • Items that can be washed effectively in cold water and with a minimum of detergents will have a reduced impact throughout their life – where possible, always indicate cold wash on your care instruction labels

  • Consider the life of the garment, select the right textile to minimize wear, tear, stains or the need for specialist cleaning

  • Limit dry cleaning

  • Use natural sustainable soaps, detergents

  • Use liquid detergent

  • Wash less often

  • Design to hang or air dry

  • Reduce use of fabric softener

  • Support and use energy saving washing appliances

  • Use of antimicrobial materials

  • Re-waterproof in washing machines to extend life

3. Durability

  • Durable fabrics are:

    • Odor-resistant

    • Stain-resistant

    • Antibacterial

    • Moisture absorbent

    • Breathable

    • Resilient (with good stretch and memory)

    • Not prone to pilling

    • Not prone to losing their shape

    • Not prone to shedding

    • Not prone to losing its shine or softness

  • Function follow form

  • Correct fit

  • Appropriate care instructions

  • Consider using linen, hemp, rayon (from certified eucalyptus), wool, silk

  • Ensure materials are appropriate for desired function/performance

  • Do more extensive wear testing – ensure your quality

  • Use products, such as running shoes, for intended purpose

  • Quit using cheaper materials to reduce cost

  • Understand stress points of products and reinforce them

  • Understand your claims – consult your legal team

  • Eliminate unnecessary design components (especially duplicate components)

4. Repair

  • Establish repair program

  • Include sustainably produced and packages repair kit, extra pieces (buttons, etc.)

  • Provide repair instructions online

  • Establish repair stations in physical store fronts

  • Partner with third=party repair services, collaborate with other brands on a third-party solution

  • Simplify construction so consumers can repair themselves, limit technologies like heat seals that consumers can't repair

  • Provide DWR recoating kit

  • Market repair programs (Worn Wear)

  • Sell spare parts (zippers, buttons, etc.)

  • Buy back resale programs

  • Invest in people to ensure repairs occur in program (rather than just replacement)

  • Set consumer expectations

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