Recycled wool sourcing: what to check about composition and certificates
A recycled-fabric description is a starting point, not the complete evidence for a product claim. Confirm the actual blend, the recycled share and the documents applicable to the fabric and supply chain you are buying. Fred Textile's FREDECOTEX programme describes wool and plastic recycling routes; a programme description does not certify every fabric or shipment.
Separate fibre composition from recycled content
Ask for the complete fibre composition and the recycled proportion, including how that proportion is expressed. Recycled wool, virgin wool and recycled polyester describe different inputs; a wool blend is not necessarily entirely recycled. Request the material origin and traceability information relevant to the selected style. Compare the physical sample, finish and test requirements as well as the recycling description.
GRS, RWS and OEKO-TEX answer different questions
- GRS: addresses verified recycled material and chain of custody, with additional processing requirements. Check the scope and the claim allowed for the specific product.
- RWS: addresses responsible wool production and chain of custody. It is not proof that wool is recycled.
- OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100: concerns testing textiles for harmful substances within the certificate's scope. It does not establish recycled content or replace the other standards.
Which documents should a buyer ask for?
Ask for the current certificate number, certified organisation, validity period, covered products and processes, and whether the intended fabric falls within that scope. Where the applicable standard requires transaction documentation, confirm its availability for the order and how it identifies the material or shipment. Verify the issuer or scheme's official records when available. A logo or an unrelated certificate is not sufficient evidence for the selected lot.
Agree the claim before approving the order
Tell the supplier which recycled-content statement, certification reference or product label you intend to use, and in which market. Confirm the supporting documents and permitted claim with the relevant scheme before printing labels. Do not infer that a recycled blend is fully biodegradable, recyclable in every collection system, or guaranteed to have a particular environmental saving. Those are separate claims that need their own evidence. Certification schemes can change; check current requirements for the shipment and proposed label.
Review FREDECOTEX, then discuss the selected recycled fabric and required documents with Fred Textile. Confirm certification coverage and supporting evidence for the actual order, rather than assuming every collection item is covered.
Discuss your fabric project