Antimicrobial Fabric: What Is It and How Does It Work?
The pandemic encouraged us to rethink how we can stay healthy. This life-changing event has also sparked curiosity around antimicrobial fabric. Not sure what differentiates it from other materials out there? We’re going to briefly identify what antimicrobial fabric is and how it works.
An Introduction To The Textile
Antimicrobial fabrics prevent harmful microorganisms—such as bacteria, mildew, mold, and viruses—from living within the textiles. Over the years, people have mainly praised these fabrics for mitigating infections in the healthcare space. So, the next time you see hospital drapes, linens, or employee and patient attire like gowns and scrubs, know that manufacturers produce those goods from antimicrobial fabric. As we know, the medical industry must maintain cleanliness 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year. Fortunately, this material can help facilities decrease microbe exposure.
The Science Behind Antimicrobial Fabric
Typically, fabrics are breeding grounds for microbes, which can encourage illness. However, antimicrobial fabric is the exception; this fabric features a chemically-treated layer that deters pathogen growth and reproduction. In other words, this material doesn’t offer an environment that’s suitable for microbe survival. The crazy part? It looks like normal fabric—the plain eye wouldn’t be able to tell the difference.
Manufacturers can apply an antimicrobial agent to several types of fabrics, including cotton, nylon, polyester, wool, and other materials. Some materials themselves also naturally exhibit antimicrobial properties. Wool, hemp, and bamboo are examples, as well as silver ion and copper. Fabric can boast a level of protection from the coating that penetrates all through the fiber or the yarns themselves. In the case of silver ion and copper, these elements can be added as a finish or actually made into yarn and spun with other fibers. It’s also possible to add other effects, such as moisture-wicking, to the fabrics that are antimicrobial. While you may be skeptical about the agents added to the fabrics, know that most of them are completely safe. In fact, as a result, you have a clean, fresh, fabric that lasts and reduces the likelihood of virus transmission. If you have the option, consider antimicrobial fabric over regular fabric—especially while we’re still wearing masks.
Now that you’re familiar with what antimicrobial fabric is and how it works, you can outfit yourself with the best options for travel. Check out apparel and accessories from NxTSTOP. We’re a travel clothing company offering the best clothing to keep you comfortable and safe on your future trips. Our online selection also includes various antimicrobial items, such as men’s and women’s apparel, face masks, and accessories. However, what makes us different is our Travleisure® technology that is built into the fabric of each item. All our products are specialized for travel situations to be breathable, cool, dry, odor-free, and wrinkle resistant. Shop with us and you can explore the world with confidence.
