Megha International

Antimicrobial finishes for textiles are treatments that inhibit the growth of bacteria, fungi, and sometimes viruses on fabrics. They’re used to reduce odor, staining, and hygiene risks—common in sportswear, medical textiles, home textiles, and uniforms.

Common Types of Antimicrobial Agents

1. Silver-based compounds

   • How they work: Release silver ions that disrupt microbes.

   • Pros: Broad-spectrum, durable.

   • Cons: Costly; environmental concerns if poorly managed.

2. Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (QACs)

   • How they work: Damage microbial cell membranes.

   • Pros: Effective, relatively low cost.

   • Cons: Can wash out; overuse concerns.

3. Triclosan (limited/restricted in many regions)

   • Note: Use is regulated due to safety and environmental issues.

4. Chitosan (natural, bio-based)

   • Source: Derived from crustacean shells.

   • Pros: Eco-friendly, good for skin-contact textiles.

   • Cons: Moderate durability unless crosslinked.

5. Zinc or Copper compounds

   • Pros: Effective against odor-causing bacteria.

   • Cons: Color impact on some fabrics.

6. Herbal / Plant-based extracts

   • Examples: Neem, aloe vera, turmeric.

   • Pros: Sustainable, mild.

   • Cons: Lower durability; variable efficacy.

Application Methods

• Padding/Exhaust (most common in finishing)

• Coating or Lamination

• Incorporation into fiber/polymer (e.g., during melt spinning for synthetics)

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An antibacterial textile treatment prevents or reduces the growth of bacteria on fabrics. This helps control:

• Odor

• Stains

• Fabric degradation

• Hygiene issues (especially in medical or activewear)

Common antibacterial agents used in textiles 1. Silver-based agents

• Very effective against a wide range of bacteria

• Long-lasting

• Common in sportswear, socks, medical textiles

• More expensive

2. Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (QACs)

• Kill bacteria by damaging cell membranes

• Used in home textiles and uniforms

• Moderate durability (may wash out over time)

3. Zinc-based compounds

• Good odor control

• Often used with other agents

• Safer and more eco-friendly than some alternatives

4. Triclosan (now restricted in many countries)

• Previously common

• Many brands avoid it due to environmental and health concerns

5. Chitosan (natural option)

• Derived from shells (crabs/shrimp)

• Biodegradable and skin-friendly

• Less durable unless properly fixed

6. Herbal / plant-based extracts

• Neem, aloe vera, bamboo, etc.

• Eco-friendly

• Lower durability and antibacterial strength

Water Repellent for Textiles