Demanding more from home textiles: Bridging sustainability and durability
Consumer expectations have evolved beyond product aesthetics and essential functionality as the global spotlight intensifies on climate change and environmental preservation.
Today’s shoppers seek home textile products that align with their environmental values while maintaining product quality and freshness over time. In a recent study, two-thirds of Brits cited finding high-quality, durable homeware as their top priority. This dynamic landscape has led manufacturers to seek innovative solutions that help them meet product sustainability and longevity demands.
The problem: microbial attack on home textiles
Microbial growth on textile products is a longstanding issue. However, it has recently gained attention due to its impact on sustainability.
According to the EPA, 9 million tons of furniture and approximately 5 billion pounds of carpeting end up in North American landfills annually.
Beyond the ever-changing trends, household items such as sofas, carpets, and rugs are susceptible to the effects of microbial growth. Their porous, fibrous structures readily absorb moisture from various sources, including humidity, food spillages, and even body perspiration. This moisture, combined with warmth and limited ventilation in indoor spaces, provides an ideal breeding ground for microbes, leading to premature product degradation and ultimately contributing to the global waste crisis as consumers opt for replacements.
The cleaning challenge
Cleaning can seem like a straightforward activity. That is until you encounter bulkier items or grapple with hard-to-reach nooks tucked between furniture crevices.
While the rise of abrasive chemical solutions has become a norm, they often result in unintended consequences. Textile fibers suffer irreversible damage, causing them to weaken and fray, thereby diminishing their quality and lifespan.
Furthermore, the use of harsh cleaning agents can have adverse effects on the environment. These cleaning products often contain volatile organic compounds (VOC), which can escape into the air during and after cleaning, adding to indoor air pollution. Disposing of water used for cleaning upholstery or carpets down storm drains or on the ground can cause chemicals to enter waterways, further impacting the environment.
By championing innovative formulations, home textile manufacturers can promote a greener future using innovative and sustainable formulations.
The solution: Microban antimicrobial treatments for textiles
By enhancing the durability and longevity of home textiles, built-in antimicrobial and/or odor control protection can help home products remain functional and appealing for longer.
Antimicrobial or odor control agents are added to textiles during manufacturing, thus becoming a durable feature of the product that works between cleaning. This means consumers can worry less about bacteria and focus more on enjoying life.
Common home textile applications for Microban technologies
Bedding: mattresses, mattress toppers, mattress covers, duvet covers, sheets, pillowcases, and bedding sets
Upholstery fabrics
Bathmats
Shower curtains
Mats and rugs
Carpets
Cushions
Towels: bath towels, hand towels, tea towels
Curtains and drapes
Table linen
Plus, much more.
An antimicrobial brand that consumers can trust
The Microban® brand has become synonymous with durable, safe, and effective product protection. Consumers and decision-makers in the commercial sector have come to trust the brand, giving Microban partners a unique competitive advantage.
Microban takes pride in our collaboration with leading independent testing and certification bodies such as OEKO-TEX and Bluesign®. These partnerships exemplify our commitment to attaining the utmost environmental sustainability, safety, and regulatory compliance standards. Furthermore, our technology helps conserve valuable resources - saving water, time, and energy.
Explore Microban’s network of home textile partners.
With built-in Microban technology, Korhani's indoor and outdoor rugs and utility mats boast a protective backing. The technology will remain active for the lifetime of the treated backing, which is often difficult to clean.
Mayzon has partnered with Microban to bring extended freshness and cleanliness to home products like shower curtains and towels.
