Odour control technologies: managing bacteria in textiles and clothing

Odour control technologies: managing bacteria in textiles and clothing

Odour control technologies are key in preventing the development of odours and maintaining freshness in textiles and clothing. They function by helping to manage the presence of microorganisms on the surfaces of substrates to which they are applied. Odour control technologies were originally developed for sportswear and active apparel end uses. However, they have also become popular in other applications, including home textiles, health care, technical textiles and workwear, because of the benefits they offer. The increasing popularity of odour control technologies also stems from growing consumer awareness of the value of personal care and healthy lifestyles, and a growing understanding of the benefits of odour control. The market for odour control textiles is forecast to expand in the ten-year period between 2022 and 2032, and manufacturers of odour control technologies who are likely to make significant gains will be those who are able to develop products which provide high levels of performance and, at the same time, address concerns relating to existing odour control technologies. In particular, certain lobby groups have raised concerns about the potentially detrimental effect on the environment and human health of existing odour control technologies which employ antimicrobial agents and nanomaterials. In response to these concerns, some manufacturers have turned to plant-based materials as alternatives to existing ingredients. On another note, some manufacturers have focused on improving the durability of their odour control technologies in a bid to stake a lasting claim on the market for anti-odour textiles and clothing. In particular, the development of odour control technologies which can withstand more than 50 domestic wash cycles without affecting the natural bacterial flora of the skin would represent a significant advancement.