Antimicrobial Textiles Market Size By Fabric (Polyester, Polyamide, Cotton), By Application (Healthcare, Apparels [Sportswear/ Active Wear], Home Textile), By Active Agents (Metal & Metallic Salts [Silver & Silver Salts], Synthetic Organic Compounds, Biob

Antimicrobial Textiles Market Size By Fabric (Polyester, Polyamide, Cotton), By Application (Healthcare, Apparels [Sportswear/ Active Wear], Home Textile), By Active Agents (Metal & Metallic Salts [Silver & Silver Salts], Synthetic Organic Compounds, Biobased Agents), COVID-19 Impact Analysis, Regional Outlook, Growth Potential, Competitive Market Share & Forecast, 2023 - 2032

The global antimicrobial textiles market is projected to witness sizeable growth through 2032. High prevalence of infectious diseases should propel the demand for antimicrobial textiles. The use of antimicrobial agents in fabrics can protect users in case of contact with microbes and pathogens.

A substantial rise in hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) has accelerated the use of antimicrobial fabrics in medical textiles. According to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, the COVID-19 pandemic increased the number of cases of HAIs. For instance, acute care hospitals in the U.S. reported a 7% rise in central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) between 2020-2021.

Some of the commonly used antimicrobial compounds in wound management include ions of copper, silver, and zinc. Leading manufacturers of antimicrobial textiles are introducing innovative products to address the growing need for HAI-resistant fabrics. In March 2022, HeiQ launched HeiQ Synbio, a novel portfolio using probiotics & prebiotics that helps create a surface microbiome capable of reducing antimicrobial resistance genes associated with HAIs.

The antimicrobial textiles market is bifurcated into fabric, application, active agents, and region.

Based on fabric, the industry landscape is fragmented into polyester, polyamide, cotton, and others. The other fabrics segment is estimated to exceed USD 1 billion by the end of 2032. Acrylic, vinyl, and rayon fabric are some of the prominent antimicrobial textiles.

Among these, acrylic fabrics are known for their high performance, lightweight & luxurious feel. Due to high moisture management and insulation, these fabrics are comfortable to wear in both dry and cold conditions. Rising disposable income along with a growing focus on luxury items and hygiene will boost the segment growth.

In terms of application, the antimicrobial textiles market is segregated into apparel, home textiles, healthcare, and others. The apparel segment is expected to witness substantial growth between 2023-2032. Antimicrobial apparel includes sportswear, jackets, caps, and a wide range of other clothing materials.

Sports brands are using antimicrobial agents to manufacture sports textiles as it eliminates the concerns associated with fabric degradation by microbes, and the formation of foul odor. It helps consumers with fewer washes and increased product shelf life.

With regards to active agents, the industry is classified into bio-based agents, metal & metallic salts, and synthetic organic compounds. The antimicrobial textiles market share from bio-based agents is expected to reach over USD 1.7 billion by 2032. Bio-based agents are typically extracted from aquatic animals. Chitosan is a commonly used bio-based agent derived from the shells of crustaceans such as crawfish, shrimp, crab, and squid pen.

From a regional perspective, Middle East and Africa antimicrobial textiles market is poised to surpass USD 890 million by 2032. Increasing demand for finished textile fabrics in the MENA region will offer lucrative opportunities for antimicrobial textile manufacturers. Furthermore, the rising number of healthcare facilities along with expanding textile manufacturing capacity will complement regional market growth.