Circular Innovations Supports LABFRESH in Measuring Shirt Durability and Impact

Circular Innovations proudly partnered with LABFRESH to independently test and validate the performance of their classic non-iron shirts. By acting as the bridge between the brand and the lab, Circular Innovations conducted detailed analysis to turn raw lab data into actionable insights and marketing-ready claims.

Project Approach
  • Independent Testing: LABFRESH shirts were tested by CITEVE, a leading Portuguese textile institute, against a comparable competitor shirt (Eton) over 50 wash cycles.

  • Key Metrics: Tear resistance, tensile strength, abrasion resistance, pilling, water absorption, water repellency, shrinkage, and appearance were all measured.

  • Analysis and Translation: Circular Innovations analyzed the raw lab results and translated them into clear, consumer-facing claims, compliant with marketing regulations, to showcase measurable sustainability impact.

Project Outcomes


LABFRESH shirts outperformed the competitor in 6 out of 6 durability tests:

  • Tear Strength: Over 7x higher after 50 washes

  • Abrasion Resistance: Withstood 4.5x more cycles

  • Tensile Strength & Shrinkage: Maintained full strength and reduced shrinkage

  • Water Repellency: Absorbed liquid 20x slower

  • Appearance: Maintained smoother seams and no color change

Circularity Impact


Durability is a key lever for a circular economy. By demonstrating that LABFRESH shirts are made to last, Circular Innovations provided the brand with credible, data-backed insights that help reduce clothing waste, encourage fewer washes, and enable consumers to wear garments longer.

Team Behind the Project


The project was led by Nout Knabben, CEO, and Juliana Vasconcellos, Circularity Associate, in close collaboration with the LABFRESH team.

Conclusion

This project is a clear example of how independent validation and careful analysis can transform brand claims into measurable, impactful sustainability stories, helping consumers and

See the full durability analysis and results here

Latest Posts

More Posts

COP30 Is Coming Up This November: Why It Matters for Businesses Embracing Circularity

COP30 is heading to the Amazon this November — and it’s shaping up to be one of the most important climate summits yet. From ecosystem protection to global sustainability goals, the pressure for real action is rising. And businesses are right at the center of the transformation. Discover why circularity matters more now than ever. What do you hope COP30 will deliver?

Recap: How Circular Thinking Can Tackle High Return Rates

High return rates are a major challenge for fashion and retail, impacting both profit and sustainability. In our recent webinar, “Fixing Your Return Problem: Profit Meets Sustainability”, we explored how circular strategies can turn returns into opportunities, and how our AI-powered Circularity Platform helps brands select the right projects, build a roadmap, and quantify impact

Circular Innovations Supports LABFRESH in Measuring Shirt Durability and Impact

Circular Innovations supported LABFRESH in independently testing the durability of their classic shirts, turning 50 wash cycles of lab data into measurable, credible claims. The results? LABFRESH outperformed a top competitor across all key metrics, proving that durable clothes are better for people and the planet. Discover how collaboration, transparency, and circularity are shaping the future of fashion.