What makes the fabric antibacterial?

　　Antibacterial fabrics and textiles are fiber-based substrates, and antibacterial agents have been applied to their surfaces or incorporated into fibers to produce products that kill or inhibit the growth of microorganisms. The popular technologies used to make antimicrobial fabrics are heavy metals, silane (Si-Quat) and chlorine retention/regeneration technologies. Learn more about how antimicrobial technology works.

　　This finish can be applied to al any fabric, so when specifying antibacterial fabrics, you don't have to sacrifice style for function. We offer a variety of colors, textures and patterns. look by youself!

　　In recent discussions with our customers, the following are some frequently asked questions about antibiotics. We hope this information will help you make an informed decision when specifying fabrics and products.

　　Frequently asked questions

　　Is there a more cost-effective method than adding silver to the fabric for antibacterial? Since the demand will be higher, will silver fabric technology be more budget-saving?

　　Yes, there is a silver substitute with antibacterial properties. The specific application, product usage, laundry specifications, durability requirements and cost constraints will determine the accurate/ technology. There are more cost-effective alternatives than silver, but it is important to note that if these elements are not inherent to the fiber or must be added, there will be additional costs per yard.

　　In the post-COVID-19 world, we believe that designated fabrics will change, paying more attention to fabric durability during cleaning and increasing laundry treatment. We expect that the demand for antibacterial/antiviral fabrics and bleached cleaning fabrics will increase. For upholstery, adding a barrier between the cushion and the fabric also helps to improve durability and longevity.

　　If customers are looking for products that can be bleached and cleaned, how will you solve this problem? Is the antibacterial function sufficient?

　　When customers are looking for bleachable cleaning products, the key is to check the manufacturer's listed tests or recommendations for bleaching ratios. In addition, please check which cleaners your customers use, as these cleaners may work differently than bleach. When using bleach, some antibacterial fabrics may lose their effectiveness. You need to ask if the cleaning process is tested or if they need to be tested with bleach to ensure that the antibacterial performance is still maximized.

　　Do you have specific recommendations for cleaning and disinfection?

　　Knowing how to take care of your upholstery is essential to keep your fabrics in top condition. It is important to ensure that you use tested and approved disinfectants and cleaners on all surfaces of the hotel. View our recommendations for cleaning procedures for fabrics and upholstery by pattern and content type.

　　Will natural fibers contain fewer microorganisms than synthetic fibers?

　　Although some "natural" fibers are advertised as having "better" antibacterial properties, in actual controlled microbial growth studies, there is al no difference between untreated synthetic fibers and natural fibers. Synthetic fibers may have more microbial growth, but natural fibers do have some growth.

　　Do heavy metals kill microorganisms or just inhibit the growth of microorganisms?

　　In cases, heavy metals tend to work through the leaching process, which will inhibit the growth and spread of microorganisms, because antibacterial agents (heavy metals or quaternary ammonium salts) physically destroy cell membranes. Pay attention to any claims related to fabrics. If the fabric manufacturer says that the fabric kills microorganisms when it comes in contact, the fabric needs to be registered with the EPA.

　　Can we single-finish our fabric and expect it to work?

　　Using the same finish for every fabric is not the answer. The application of the fabric and its function will determine how it needs to function, including consideration of whether to wash or clean it with disinfectants and how much.

　　Hospitality is driven by design and customization. How do we find antibacterial or bleached cleaning fabrics that have been tested and approved for flame retardancy, are in stock, are affordable, and meet these high standards? How do you foresee that the work of custom fabrics will move forward with the development of these inventory attributes?

　　We understand that price points and delivery times are critical in the hospitality industry, and the design must fit the application. We provide customized digital printing options (for example) on base fabrics with antibacterial, dirt/stain and splash properties, so no additional surface treatment is required. We are also considering adding more stock fabrics, which are more suitable for hotels/designs, but have undergone antibacterial treatment and can withstand commercial washing.

　　What is the difference between cleaning and disinfection? Also, what should I use to clean fabrics that won't damage them?

　　Cleaning is the removal of liquid and food contaminants, while disinfection is the elimination/killing of microorganisms that can survive in water and food sources.