Those comfy thongs with a cult following, Hanky Panky panties were first made by Gale Epstein and Lida Orzeck using repurposed embroidered handkerchiefs (so that explains the name). Safe to say that eco-friendliness has been a priority since Day One. Hanky Panky shares its sustainability policy loud and proud, stressing made-in-the-USA carbon savings, low-impact dyes and fibers (expect 100 percent organic cotton by 2025) and recycling of textile waste, packaging and shipping materials. #impressive
“As we all become more dependent on synthetic textiles that don’t biodegrade, we’re also more aware that we must be better stewards of our planet. Most used garments can be handed down, repurposed or donated, but intimate apparel—specifically panties and bras—cannot,” Gale told Bare it All.
For the best support, industry experts, including our Bare Necessities Bra Fit Experts, recommend replacing your heavy-rotation bras about every six months. What’s a girl gotta do to keep pieces that have lived out their useful lives from ending up in the trash heap?
This month, in time for Earth Day, they’re taking things a step beyond…by bringing you into the fold.
Lingeriecycle™, Hanky Panky’s new sustainability initiative, helps divert worn-out, no-longer wearable items from clogging up landfills, where more than 10 million tons of clothes wind up every year. Hanky Panky is even covering the processing costs for customers in exchange for taking greater ownership over the eco impact of its garments.
“It is the right thing to do for the planet. We hope that in the future, all brands and retailers will take responsibility for the entire lifecycle of the items they sell, and we are proud to lead the way for the lingerie industry to transition into a sustainable future,” says the mission statement. “In keeping with Hanky Panky’s 40-year commitment to sustainability, the brand has partnered with a textile waste management organization, B.R.A.Recycling Agency, to make it easy for customers to mail in their old, worn-out bras and panties, which will be shredded and remade into carpet padding.”
Through Lingeriecycle, Hanky Panky will provide single-use envelopes free of charge, which customers can fill with panties and bras of any brand. Add postage and drop into the mail to the recycling center address pre-printed on the envelope.
Look good, feel good, do good.