planet
- MATERIALS
- ANIMAL WELFARE
- REGENERATIVE AGRICULTURE
- ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP
- PACKAGING
- CHEMICALS & WATER
- CIRCULARITY
- REPAIR & CARE
We are committed to using the highest quality natural fibres, using toxic-free processes that are gentle on people and on the planet.
PHOTO CREDIT | NATIVA
FIBRES
Organic cotton is grown from non-genetically modified seeds, without the use of toxic fertilisers or pesticides which not only pose detrimental health risks to farmers and local communities but also play a significant role in the degradation of our soils.
Removing pesticides is essential to addressing climate change, increasing biodiversity and safeguarding human health. With an estimated third of the world’s soil already degraded, we must do our part in supporting its regeneration.
Cloth & Co’s 100% Hemp Collection has a luxurious hand feel much like a fine quality linen. Like linen, hemp moves easily with the body, is breathable and easy to wear across different seasons. Hemp wrinkles less and softens quickly with each wash and wear.
Hemps key attributes:
1. Strongest natural fibre
2. UV-resistant & anti-bacterial
3. Carbon negative
4. Organically cultivated
5. Requires far lesser water to grow than any other natural fibres
The Chanderi collection is produced by a community of artisans in Varanasi who specialise in a unique weaving technique that has been passed down through generations. The investment in hand-loomed fabrics provides continuous opportunities for employment in the sector – ensuring the craft is preserved and the communities that practice it thrive. Artisanal craftsmanship and heritage is woven into the very fabric of these pieces.
Our locally grown cotton hand loomed denim has been created by village artisans in northern. India giving it a softness that is unique to hand-woven fabrics. Our denim collection is the epitome of luxury, as time passes, the fabric takes the shape of the body and becomes like a second skin. Our handmade denim is a labor of love - a symbol of the connection between the weaver, the wearer, and the land. Our denim weavers are based in a village community 5 hours outside New Delhi and have skills that have been handed down through generations.
Our denim is available in natural cotton and where dyed we use only natural, vegetable and mineral dyes.
Handloom Denim fabric significantly reduces the immense energy and water consumption typically associated with weaving conventional denim. Importantly, it plays a vital role in creating employment opportunities and supporting traditional craftsmen and their families.
Our linen scarves have been hand-loomed using European linen which is also one of the most sustainable fibre crops grown. Linen is one of the oldest fibres used in textiles and precedes chemical fertilisers and pesticides as well as synthetic fibres
Our recycled cashmere yarns redefine waste by transforming it into luxurious and beautiful products. We are dedicated to the circular economy, creating a restorative and regenerative industry for future generations.
By creating beautiful yarns from re-engineered cashmere we are redefining the idea of "waste’ turning our recycled cashmere.production into beautiful luxurious yarns. Our recycled yarn collection demonstrates our commitment to being part of the circular economy helping to create an industry that is restorative and regenerative for future generations.Recycled Cashmere is one part of our company commitment to sustainability which is centred on four key directives:
•SUSTAINABLE AND RECYCLABLE - we produce 200 to 500 tons of high grade natural recycled yarns annually
•ORGANIC AND TRACEABLE- initiating special breeding programs in China to make organic and traceable cashmere possible
•GREEN AND ECO-FRIENDLY-pioneering new production processes to use green energy and implement energy recycling
•ANIMAL PROTECTION- conscientiously caring for animal welfare and the protection of grazing pastures
Our core knitwear collection has been created with 100% RWS (Responsible Wool Standard that addresses the welfare of sheep and the land they graze on) Extra Fine Merino Wool. The Yak we use is Shokay Certified which means that the Tibetan yaks are semi-nomadic, graze on natural and pollution-free grass and have the space to roam and explore! Most importantly, the herding process involves no cruelty, caging or unnatural treatment towards these beautiful animals.
Designed with elements to be mixed and matched and worn layered with our woven collections. The fibres are dyed and spun with care and finesse to
create a yarn with exceptional qualities. Our yarns are responsibly sourced, traceable and GRS Certified.
Our Khangri collection is made from a mix of precious Shokay Yak, Alpaca and RWS Extra Fine Merino fibres with a small percentage of recycled nylon to keep its shape; creating a lofty yarn with a lightly felted handle to keep you warm and cosy during the coldest days of winter. TheThe fibres are dyed and spun with care and finesse to create a yarn with exceptional qualities. Our yarns are responsibly sourced, traceable and GRS Certified.
CERTIFICATIONS
The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) was developed by leading standard setters to define world-wide recognised requirements for organic textiles. From the harvesting of the raw materials, environmentally and socially responsible manufacturing to labelling, textiles certified to GOTS provide a credible assurance to the consumer.
When products are Fairtrade Certified it means that they were produced in accordance with Fairtrade International's rigorous environmental, economic and social standards. This is independently verified through regular audits by an accredited third-party auditor.
The Organic Content Standard (OCS) is a voluntary global standard that sets the criteria for third-party certification of organic materials and chain of custody.
The Responsible Wool Standard aims to improve the welfare of sheep and the land they graze on.
The Responsible Wool Standard (RWS) requires all sites, from wool farmers to the seller in the final business-to-business transaction, to be certified. RWS farmers and ranchers must meet animal welfare, land management, and social requirements.
The NATIVA™ Regenerative Agriculture Program is a robust system with a triple impact based on scientific research and backed by data. It protects the land by bettering its soil quality, safeguards the animals by ensuring their healthy keeping, and supports farmers and local communities by improving their livelihoods.
The NATIVA™ wool comes from the most breathtaking lands in Argentina, Uruguay, New Zealand, Australia, United States and South Africa.
Shokay purchases raw yak wool from Tibetan herders to produce premium knitwear and accessories. Not only does this enable brands to connect directly to these local communities, but it also contributes towards real social change.
Yaks are naturally sustainable, low-carbon emission animals compared to sheep and goats due to their gentler grazing habits.Shokay started partnering with Tibetan environmentalist Drakyom Palzang in 2021
Over the last 15 years, Palzang has developed a unique methodology that empowers local Tibetans and their yak herds to work together to combat desertification and has led over 1000 Tibetans to recover 13,000 mu of grassland.
The GRS is an international, voluntary, full product standard that sets requirements for third-party certification of recycled content, chain of custody, social and environmental practices and chemical restrictions.
OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 is one of the world's best-known labels for textiles tested for harmful substances. It stands for customer confidence and high product safety.
If a textile article carries the STANDARD 100 label, you can be certain that every component of this article, i.e. every thread, button and other accessories, has been tested for harmful substances and that the article therefore is harmless for human health.
Sedex stands for Supplier Ethical Data Exchange, which is an online system that allows suppliers to maintain data on ethical & responsible practices and allows them to share this information with their customers.
Haelixa offers proprietary and innovative solutions to physically mark, trace, and authenticate products from producer to retail creating transparency along the entire supply chain (linear or circular).
materials we don't use
We avoid oil-derived synthetics, reserving their use for technical necessity only.
Oil-based synthetic materials such as polyester have gained significant prevalence in global fashion, but their environmental impact is extensive. The complete journey of producing 1 kg of traditional polyester fabric results in the emission of over 30 kg of CO2 equivalents into the atmosphere, exacerbating the greenhouse effect and contributing to global warming. Additionally, these materials persistently harm the environment by releasing micro-plastics with every washing cycle.
One of the reasons we opt not to use polyester is its environmental impact. Approximately 35% of primary micro-plastics released into the environment are attributed to the laundering of synthetic garments. Surprisingly, a single laundry load containing polyester clothing can release around 700,000 micro-plastic fibres, which have the potential to enter the food chain.
Moreover, most polyester materials are non-biodegradable, taking anywhere between 20 and 200 years to decompose. This extended lifespan contributes to the accumulation of waste in our environment.
Furthermore, clothing primarily composed of polyester lacks the comfort provided by natural materials like cotton and linen. Polyester does not allow for proper breathability, leading to increased sweating and discomfort while wearing such garments.
Annually, global producers of conventionally-grown cotton expend approximately $3.3 billion on chemical inputs. Despite being cultivated on just 2.5% of the world's agricultural land, cotton accounts for the utilisation of 16% of all insecticides and 7% of all herbicides worldwide. This makes cotton the highest-consuming crop in terms of chemical pesticides, surpassing any other crop on the planet.
In the realm of conventional cotton farming, growers commonly rely on insecticides such as organophosphates, pyrethroids, and neonicotinoids, all of which have been linked to detrimental effects on the environment. Notably, organophosphates, originally developed as toxic nerve agents during World War II, rank among the most toxic pesticides to vertebrates.
In contrast, organic cotton production offers a more sustainable approach by eschewing the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilisers. This not only mitigates environmental harm but also contributes to the conservation of freshwater resources. Notably, around 80% of the land dedicated to organic cotton cultivation is situated in predominantly rain-fed areas. Furthermore, adopting organic practices can lead to a reduction in energy consumption by an estimated 30-70% per unit of land.
Our standard is the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), and all our sources are accredited to this level, ensuring compliance with rigorous organic production criteria.
The procurement of wood pulp for the production of viscose has been recognised as a significant contributor to worldwide deforestation. Moreover, as the manufacturing process of viscose involves intensive chemical usage, further environmental violations occur throughout the supply chain. Disturbingly, there is compelling evidence indicating that manufacturers of viscose discharge untreated wastewater, resulting in the pollution and contamination of lakes and watercourses.
One of the primary reasons we opt not to use viscose is the significant environmental impact associated with its production. Every year, more than 200 million trees are logged to produce cellulosic fabrics like viscose. Notably, the production of viscose has doubled between 2013 and 2020, and the demand for pulp used in packaging is projected to increase by 3.5% annually until 2030. These trends contribute to deforestation and have adverse consequences for global ecosystems.
Furthermore, the production of viscose involves the use of toxic and endocrine-disrupting chemicals, such as carbon disulphide. This chemical is still widely utilised in the production process and has been linked to numerous severe health conditions. Notably, it is notorious for its capacity to induce insanity in factory workers. Additionally, exposure to carbon disulphide has been associated with illnesses ranging from Parkinson's disease to heart attacks and strokes. These health risks further underscore the reasons for avoiding viscose.
Our decision to abstain from using cellulosic fibres is rooted in concerns regarding the inadequately regulated chemical usage during production, which subsequently leads to adverse environmental consequences throughout the supply chain. The conventional sourcing practices associated with these fibres have played a significant role in deforestation and the loss of critical habitats. Nevertheless, we actively monitor advancements aimed at enhancing these supply chains and actively participate in industry-wide working groups that aim to build capacity and knowledge for a more sustainable future of these fibres.
Acrylic fibers are widely regarded as unfavorable for several reasons. Firstly, they have a significant environmental impact as they are derived from petroleum, a non-renewable resource. The extraction and processing of petroleum contribute to habitat destruction, air pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, acrylic fibers are non-biodegradable, meaning they persist in the environment for a prolonged period, adding to the issue of plastic waste. When acrylic garments are washed, they release microplastic particles that are difficult to filter out, leading to water pollution and harm to marine ecosystems. Moreover, acrylic fibers lack breathability compared to natural fibers like cotton or wool, causing discomfort and excessive sweating. Lastly, acrylic fibers are known for their lower quality and durability, often exhibiting pilling, fuzziness, and fading over time. Considering these factors, acrylic fibers pose challenges in terms of sustainability, eco-friendliness, and garment longevity.
We are dedicated to animal welfare, avoiding fibres that harm animals, educating on supply chain realities, and supporting farm-level relationships for animals to live their full natural lives in comfort.
PHOTO CREDIT | SHOKAY
At Cloth & Co., we believe in the ethical treatment of animals within the fashion industry and choose to work with third party certified (RWS) animal fibres. We recognise the significance of animal welfare and strive to ensure that our practices align with this principle.
We are committed to the highest standard of care and treatment of all animals and diligently explore and utilise alternative, cruelty-free materials that maintain high standards of quality and aesthetics. We are currently minimising our use of silk while we are in the process of transitioning over to Ahimsa which is a method of nonviolent silk breeding and harvesting.
Education is a vital aspect of our approach. By raising awareness and promoting transparency, we aim to empower individuals to make informed choices and support cruelty-free fashion.
As we strive to create a fashion industry that embraces compassion and empathy, we continually seek opportunities to improve our practices. We collaborate with experts, engage in research and development, and invest in sustainable solutions that prioritise animal welfare.
Our commitment to animal welfare in the fashion industry is unwavering, and we invite others to join us in creating a compassionate future. Together, we can foster positive change and make a meaningful difference in the lives of animals worldwide.
REGENERATIVE AGRICULTURE improvES and restores the health of ecosystems, soil, and biodiversity.
OUR PARTNERSHIP WITH amiha agro
We are excited to announce our partnership with Amiha Agro. Driven by our unwavering commitment to progress, we are continuously seeking better approaches. Over the past four years, we have extensively researched regenerative agriculture for our cotton supply. Now, in an exciting collaboration with Amiha Agro, we are embarking on a journey that kicks off in June 2023 with the planting of seeds. We are eagerly looking forward to sharing our progress and discovering the promising future that awaits us.
WHAT IS REGENERATIVE AGRICULTURE
Regenerative agriculture is an approach to farming and land management that focuses on improving and restoring the health of ecosystems, soil, and biodiversity. It is a holistic system that aims to regenerate and replenish the natural resources utilised in agricultural practices, rather than depleting or harming them.
The principles of regenerative agriculture involve working in harmony with natural processes and utilising practices that promote soil health, water conservation, carbon sequestration, and biodiversity enhancement. Some key aspects of regenerative agriculture include:
1. Soil health: Regenerative agriculture emphasises the importance of building and maintaining healthy soils. It employs techniques such as cover cropping, crop rotation, minimal tillage, and the use of compost or organic matter to improve soil structure, fertility, and microbial activity.
2. Carbon sequestration: One of the main goals of regenerative agriculture is to sequester carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and store it in the soil. Healthy soils with high organic matter content have the capacity to store significant amounts of carbon, helping to mitigate climate change.
3. Biodiversity conservation: Regenerative agriculture promotes the preservation and enhancement of biodiversity on farmland. This can be achieved through measures such as planting hedgerows, creating wildlife habitats, and providing space for native plants and animals to thrive.
4. Water management: Effective water management is another important aspect of regenerative agriculture. Techniques such as rainwater harvesting, contour plowing, and the use of cover crops help to reduce water runoff, improve water infiltration, and enhance water conservation on agricultural lands.
5. Integration of livestock: Some regenerative agricultural systems integrate livestock into the farming practices. Well-managed grazing can mimic natural herd movements, enhance soil fertility through nutrient cycling, and contribute to overall ecosystem health.
Regenerative agriculture aims to create a sustainable and resilient agricultural system that not only produces food but also restores and enhances the health of ecosystems. It recognises the interconnectedness of all components in an ecosystem and seeks to work in harmony with nature rather than against it..
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ORGANIC AND REGENERATIVE COTTON FARMING?
Organic cotton farming and regenerative cotton farming are both approaches that prioritise sustainable and environmentally friendly practices in cotton cultivation. While there are some similarities between the two methods, there are also key differences in their principles and objectives.
Organic cotton farming refers to the cultivation of cotton without the use of synthetic fertilisers, pesticides, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs). It focuses on maintaining soil health, conserving water, and promoting biodiversity. Organic farmers rely on natural inputs like compost, cover crops, and biological pest control methods to support the growth of cotton plants. Organic certifications ensure that strict standards are met throughout the production process, from seed to finished product.
On the other hand, regenerative cotton farming goes beyond organic practices by aiming to improve and restore ecosystems and soil health. It is a holistic approach that considers the entire farming system and its impact on the environment. The core principle of regenerative farming is to regenerate the natural resources utilised in cotton production, rather than merely sustaining them. Regenerative farmers adopt practices such as crop rotation, conservation tillage, agroforestry, and the use of cover crops to improve soil fertility, enhance water retention, and increase carbon sequestration. These practices encourage biodiversity, build resilience to climate change, and create a more sustainable agricultural system.
In summary, while organic cotton farming focuses on avoiding synthetic inputs and GMOs, regenerative cotton farming goes further by actively restoring and enhancing the natural ecosystem. Regenerative farming aims to improve soil health, promote biodiversity, and mitigate climate change impacts, while organic farming primarily seeks to eliminate the use of synthetic chemicals and preserve natural resources.
WHY WE HAVE PARTNERED WITH AMIHA AGRO
Amiha Agro is dedicated to sustainable cotton production through a systematic and knowledge-intensive approach. Their goal is to establish a diverse and sustainable farming ecosystem where cotton is one of the core elements. The primary objective of regenerative cotton cultivation is threefold: restoring soil fertility, reducing production costs, and obtaining better prices for the certified regenerative harvest.
They have implemented the Regenerative Agricultural standard as a pilot for their projects, with the objective of preserving aquatic life by maintaining buffer water courses and riparian areas. At the organisational level, they have devised a biodiversity guideline to address the present crisis. Consequently, they are engaged in activities such as biodiversity mapping and time indexing of species and their habitats. Based on this, they have formulated a Biodiversity Action Plan that concentrates on the following:
1. Ensuring the survival of indigenous ecosystems and species into the future through effective management of site ecology.
2. Landscaping different types of land, including farmland, grazing land, and barren land.
3. Promoting community biodiversity management through diverse initiatives such as plantation efforts, maintenance of riparian areas, and the establishment of water buffer zones.
59,243 MT of Fertilisers
63.58 Million Cubic Meter of Water
1,59,243 MT of GM Materials
447 MT of Pesticides
21,723 Megawatt of Power
we prioritiSe sustainability, adopting eco-friendly practices, sourcing responsibly, and raising awareness to protect the environment for future generations.
OUR PHILOSOPHY
As fashion continues to play a significant role in human communication and expression, the global recognition of its substantial environmental, climate, and biodiversity impact has grown. We acknowledge that our actions have consequences and are committed to minimising our footprint as responsible global citizens. We prioritise treating the Earth with respect and actively strive to contribute to its restoration.
THE PRINCIPLES WE UPHOLD
These principles guide our actions as we strive to operate in an environmentally responsible manner.
WASTE REDUCTION
- We exclusively create high-quality, timeless products as well as educate and provide tools to extend their lifespan and reduce raw material consumption.
- Throughout our design and production process, we design out and minimise waste and recycle materials that cannot be salvaged.
- We operate on limited runs and made to order models, we have a strong standpoint against overdevelopment and overproduction.
STEWARDSHIP OF THE ENVIRONMENT
- We use natural materials including organic and regenerative fibres that support soil health, ecosystems, and communities.
- We observe the importance of rigorous policies on chemicals and wastewater treatment and support our supply partners in implementing systems and processes to address these concerns.
- We have a strong stance against the use of synthetic fibres and petrochemical based materials that contribute to micro-plastic pollution with the exception to technically required instances where it impacts the longevity of the garment, where we prioritise recycled and compostable fibres when necessary.
- Packaging materials consist solely of environmentally friendly materials, and waste is reduced across our entire supply chain.
MINIMISING CARBON EMISSIONS
- We are dedicated to offsetting carbon emissions from our entire operations.
- We are striving to become Carbon Positive and are in the process of measuring, auditing, reducing and offsetting our Carbon to reach this goal within the next 2 years.
- Although our garments are made in India and Nepal as the people we work with and our social impact are at the core of our business, we maintain a short supply chain to minimise the carbon footprint of our logistics.
CARBON FOOTPRINT ASSESSMENT
- We are in the process of conducting a comprehensive carbon footprint assessment to determine the total greenhouse gas emissions associated with the company's operations.
- Once we have a wholistic understanding of our carbon footprint we will first work to reduce and minimise our emissions wherever possible.
- We will then seek to offset any remaining carbon emissions
- Achieving Carbon Neutrality will be the first goal in our mission to become Carbon Positive.
AREAS FOR GHG REDUCTION
1. TRANSPORTATION & LOGISTICS
At the moment we use airfreight and in order to minimise this, we are building into our production timelines and contingency enough time to allow for sea freight.
2. SUPPLIER ENGAGEMENT
We see opportunity to continue to collaborate with our suppliers in India and Nepal to promote carbon reduction measures, encourage them to adopt energy-efficient practices, reduce waste, and transition to renewable energy sources. This will require investment, resources and support from Cloth & Co. beyond a traditional supplier / client relationship.
3. SUSTAINABLE MATERIALS & PRODUCTION
We pride ourselves on the quality, social and environmental commitment we have towards our fibre sourcing, but there are always opportunities for improvement. We are committed to our Regenerative Agricultural project and will continue to invest in the most environmentally positive raw materials available. We will also continue to seek out and prioritise trims and hardware that have lower emissions throughout their lifecycle. Furthermore we are committed to continuing to explore circular economy initiatives.
4. CONSUMER AWARENESS & EDUCATION
We will continue to raise awareness among customers about the carbon footprint of the fashion industry and the importance of making sustainable choices including providing options to extend the lifespan of their garments. We will always strive to provide complete transparency on the information about the carbon footprint of Cloth & Co. products, including the materials used, manufacturing processes, and transportation emissions.
5. MONITORING & REPORTING
Transparency is really important to us, and we will regularly report on our carbon emissions, progress made, and initiatives implemented to engage stakeholders
We are committed to ONLY LEAVING A POSITIVE IMPACT ON the planet.
We view the impact on our environment as a responsibility that we are passionately taking on and that includes removing all plastics from our supply and operations. All of our orders will be shipped to you in a home compostable mailer.
Home compostable means that the material undergoes degradation by biological processes during composting to yield C02, water, inorganic compounds and biomass at a rate consistent with other known compostable materials and does not leave visible, distinguishable or toxic residue.
All of our mailers are made from renewable plants; cornstarch and PLA (synthesised from corn) & PBAT (Polybutyrate Adipate Terephthalate), they are produced partly carbon neutrally using some wind and renewable energy, they are durable and tough making them perfect for protecting your beautiful pieces as they make their way to you and the best bit is, they will breakdown under the right conditions in your home compost in less than 6 months!
Our home compostable mailer partner is Better Packaging, find out more about them here.
We try to avoid as much unnecessary packaging as possible, however, in order to keep our products in good condition and to protect them, we have sourced a home compostable apparel bag. Our apparel bags are made from biopolymers (also called renewable polymers), which are produced from biomass. Biomass comes from crops such as sugar beet, potatoes or wheat. The printing on the bag is done with natural dyes which are environmentally friendly and non-toxic. At the end of their life cycle, they are completely assimilated by the microorganisms present in the environment.
Biobased polymers help to avoid the depletion of fossil resources (petroleum) and considerably reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Just pop it in your home compost and wait for it to return to the earth!
Cotton textile waste has been recycled to make paper for centuries. The recycled cotton in our swing tags helps to divert textile waste sent to landfills every year. Cotton fibres are one of the most durable fibres for making paper and are made from "linters" or "rags." Linters are fine fibres left on the seed of a cotton plant after the ginning process, while rag refers to cotton clippings from textile mills. Using a combination of heat, water, and time, those scraps are transformed into a pulp which becomes a beautiful, strong and sustainable paper.
Growing conventional cotton uses 11 times more water than organic cotton and is grown with harmful pesticides that leach into the environment. It’s also disastrously harmful to the farmers that grow the cotton and contributes more than double the C02 emissions that organic cotton does. That is why we are committed to only using organic cotton, even down to the labels on our garments and scarves!
For our larger shipments we use 100% recycled boxes with recyclable craft tape that is FSC certified and made from recycled or renewable sources.
WE ARE COMMITTED TO THE RESPONSIBLE USE OF WATER AND NON-TOXIC CHEMICALS
We source the fibres we use with the intention of only utilising those from suppliers that have a dedication to responsible water and chemical usage and have obtained third-party certifications to validate their practices. Organisations such as GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) and OEKO-TEX® certify compliance with stringent guidelines and restrictions on the use of hazardous chemicals.
We maintain a strong collaborative relationship with our supply partners, all of whom have endorsed and signed our Supplier Code of Conduct. This code explicitly outlines guidelines and standards pertaining to the responsible use of chemicals and water management.
The circular economy addresses climate change and other global issues such as biodiversity loss, waste, and pollution, by breaking the link between economic activity and the use of limited resources.
Aligned with the Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s definition of a circular economy, our three guiding principles are:
1. Eliminate waste and pollution
2. Circulate products and materials (at their highest value)
3. Regenerate nature
“In our current economy, we take materials from the Earth, make products from them, and eventually throw them away as waste – the process is linear. In a circular economy, by contrast, we stop waste being produced in the first place.” - Ellen MacArthur Foundation
Eliminate waste and pollution
Employ strategic planning, meticulous design, and efficient production methods to minimise waste generation from the outset.
Approach every stage of production with waste-free design principles, leaving no room for unnecessary resource depletion.
Maintain an unwavering commitment to exclusively use premium fibres that are independently certified, attesting to their safety for both individuals and the environment.
Circulate products and materials
Promote the longevity of our garments through preservation, repair & care
Implement a comprehensive system for gathering textile waste, and utilise recycled materials where ever possible
Regenerate nature
Work towards becoming Climate Positive
Continue to invest in renewable and regenerative methodologies, ensuring a net positive ecological impact.
You can increase the longevity of your pieces by how you wash, dry, iron and repair THEM.
WASH
Switching to cold water can reduce your energy impact by up to 90%.
Hand wash or machine wash on a cool, gentle cycle with similar colours.
Use a gentle, eco-friendly detergent and avoid harsh chemicals or stain removers, which can affect the colour. Chemical laundry detergents not only coat your clothes which can cause skin irritations but also drain into the waterways increasing toxicity levels and depleting oxygen that is vital for aquatic life. To remove persistent stains, gently rub with soap and water before washing.
DRY
We recommend air drying your clothes as opposed to tumble-drying as it preserves the fibres and in turn, extends the life of your clothes. Avoid leaving your clothes on the line in direct sunlight as this may cause some fading over time.
IRON
Caroline (co-founder of Cloth & Co.) loves nothing more than a perfectly ironed tee!
To remove creases, gently steam iron the garment whilst still slightly damp.
REPAIR
It is possible and highly recommended to mend a hole in a tee or a pair of jersey pants by turning them inside out and using either a fusible webbing material or hand stitching the hole.
RECYCLE
If you are no longer getting use out of your garment you can also send it to our upcycling partners at Upparel® where they will either donate or recycle your garment.
COMPOST
If your tee has lived a long and well-loved life you can put it in your home compost, and in the right environment it will completely break down in 3-6 months.
WASH
We highly recommend that you don’t over-wash your garments and scarves as this impacts the longevity of the fibres.
When you are washing, we recommend a hand wash or machine wash on a cool, gentle cycle with similar colours. Use a gentle, eco-friendly detergent and avoid harsh chemicals or stain removers, which can affect the colour. To remove persistent stains, gently rub with soap and water before washing.
We don’t use any harsh chemicals in our dying process so colours may fade over time.
DRY
We recommend air drying your clothes and scarves as opposed to tumble-drying as it preserves the fibres and in turn, extends the life of your clothes. Avoid leaving your clothes on the line in direct sunlight as this may cause some fading over time.
IRON
To remove creases, gently steam iron the garment or scarf whilst still damp.
REPAIR
Our linen scarves are handwoven and sometimes it may appear as though there is a hole when actually the warp and weft have slipped apart. This is easily fixed by massaging the spot between your fingers to slide the yarn back into place.
If there are any little holes in your garments or scarves it is possible and highly recommended to mend them by hand stitching the hole in a linen thread of the same colour.
RECYCLE
If you are no longer getting use out of your garment or scarf you can send it to our upcycling partners at Upparel® where they will either donate or recycle your garment.
COMPOST
Linen is a very fine material and in the right composting conditions can break down in as little as two weeks. To speed up the process, we recommend cutting the fabric into really small pieces before putting it in your home compost.
WASH
Hand wash in cool water. Use a gentle, eco-friendly detergent or wool detergent and avoid harsh chemicals or stain removers, which can affect the colour. Soak for 5-10 minutes and rinse thoroughly with cool water.
DRY
Roll in a clean towel and gently apply pressure to absorb excess water. Do not twist. Reshape and dry flat, to preserve the fit and shape. Avoid drying in direct sunlight as it may cause the colours to fade over time.
STEAM IRON
Gently steam to remove creases, we do not recommend using a hot iron on delicate fibres.
CARE
Store your delicates in the soft cotton bag that comes with your scarf or garment. Ensure they are securely stored away from pests, mould and mildew. Avoid hanging your knits and hand-loomed pieces as they may become misshapen over time.
REPAIR
Piling is a natural occurrence when wearing soft wool and cashmere fibres and can gently be removed by hand.
Our scarves and garments are handwoven and sometimes it may appear as though there is a hole when actually the warp and weft have slipped apart. This is easily fixed by massaging the spot between your fingers to slide the yarn back into place.
Snagging can easily be resolved by gently pulling the long, loose yarn back inside the garment and tying a knot.
Mending is a wonderful way to preserve the life of a hand-loomed scarf or knitted garment. We recommend darning; the process of sewing over the hole with new yarn thread, in vertical and horizontal strokes.
RECYCLE
If you are no longer getting use out of your garment or scarf you can send it to our upcycling partners at Upparel® where they will either donate or recycle your garment.
COMPOST
Wool and cashmere take a relatively long time to decompose in home compost, up to 2 years. However, this can be seen as a great advantage as the fibre is high in nitrogen so can provide a slow and steady release into the surrounding soil. Wool is also considered a great mulching material preventing water and nutrient runoff. Silk can take even longer than wool and cashmere with signs of degradation showing after 4 years, however, this can be sped up to just 12 - 24 months through hot composting and cutting up your fabric into really small pieces.
WASH
Hand wash or machine wash on a cool or 30 degrees, gentle cycle with similar colours. Use a gentle, eco-friendly detergent that is suitable for knitwear.
DRY
We recommend air drying your clothes as opposed to tumble-drying as it preserves the fibres and in turn, extends the life of your clothes. Dry top flat to ensure the longevity.
IRON
To remove creases, gently steam iron the garment whilst on a low heat.
WASH
Only use natural, eco-friendly fabric detergents that are PH neutral and free from any chemicals, fragrance and essential oils. Cold, gentle machine wash your garments with similar colours.
DRY
It is best to line dry your garments in the shade and inside out. Do not expose to direct sunlight as this will fade or change the overall colour. Drying on a hanger in the shade or in a breezeway and ironing when slightly damp will give the best results.
STEAM IRON
Hot Iron
CARE
Preferably "Green" Dry Clean