Swiss Experiment Reveals Soil Activity Through Buried Underwear

Aug 29, 2026

71 min

Aug 29, 2026 12:30

Scientists asked 1,000 people to bury their underwear — what they found surprised them

## Unusual Experiment with Cotton Underwear

In a unique study, Swiss researchers asked 1,000 volunteers to bury cotton underwear to assess soil activity. The experiment, known as "Proof by Underpants," aimed to measure how different land uses affect soil decomposition.

## Findings from the Experiment

Participants buried over 2,000 pairs of cotton underwear and 12,000 tea bags across Switzerland. The results showed that private gardens had the highest decomposition rates, indicating active soil life. In contrast, lawns exhibited the least biological activity, with croplands and grasslands in between.

## Understanding the Underpants Index

The decomposition of cotton, primarily made of cellulose, was used to create an "Underpants Index." This index was compared to the Tea Bag Index, another method for assessing soil decomposition. The study found that land use was a significant factor in decomposition rates, more so than individual soil characteristics.

## Implications and Limitations

While rapid decomposition can suggest active soil, it may also indicate excessive nutrient levels, such as from over-fertilization. The study's models explained only a portion of the variation in decomposition, highlighting that soil health involves more than just how quickly cotton breaks down.

## Citizen Science Contribution

The project involved citizen scientists, who helped gather data from various regions, contributing to one of Switzerland's most comprehensive soil datasets. Around 240 volunteers were credited as co-authors in the published study, showcasing the value of public involvement in scientific research.

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