Soil scientist Franz Bender led a unique experiment in 2021, enlisting 1,000 volunteers to bury and retrieve underwear in various locations across Switzerland. The unconventional study aimed to shed light on soil health and microbial activity. Surprisingly, the underground microbes had feasted on the buried underwear, leaving them nearly disintegrated.
The research, which recently received an Ig Nobel Prize, showcased the vibrancy of soil ecosystems that are often overlooked. Published in Plants People Planet in August 2026, the study revealed intriguing findings about the decomposition rates of underwear in different soil environments.
The concept of burying underwear for soil analysis originated in Canada, where the “Soil Your Undies” campaign gained popularity. Alan Kruszel, a farmer and advocate for soil health, highlighted how the initiative sparked interest and awareness about the importance of soil ecosystems.
Beyond farmers and researchers, diverse groups participated in burying underwear, including senators, school children, and gardening clubs. The unconventional method drew attention and engagement, prompting Bender to expand the project into a citizen science endeavor.
In Switzerland, over 1,000 citizen scientists were recruited to bury organic cotton underwear and teabags, providing valuable data on soil conditions. The experiment revealed that private gardens exhibited the highest microbial activity, leading to significant underwear decomposition. In contrast, lawns showed lower decomposition rates due to less diverse soil ecosystems.
Despite the light-hearted nature of the study, it served as a valuable tool for soil analysis, offering a cost-effective and engaging alternative to traditional lab tests. Experts like Asim Biswas and Joann Whalen emphasized the importance of raising awareness about soil health and the role of citizen science in environmental research.
The success of the underwear burial project has not only advanced scientific understanding but also inspired creative collaborations. Bender and his team collaborated with a fashion designer to repurpose the exhumed underwear, showcasing the intersection of science and art in a unique and engaging manner.
