The Importance of Scientifically Designed Antimicrobial Fabric Technology for Towels

Towels are an everyday essential. If a towel still emits an unpleasant odor after washing, it indicates a microbial issue. In fact, given Hong Kong’s humid climate, towels could be turned into breeding grounds for bacteria and viruses. With the findings from the Consumer Council's first-ever test on 40 different bath towel samples available in the market, the importance of scientifically designed and verified antimicrobial fabric technology has never been clearer.

Of the 40 cotton-based towels tested, 32 were regular towels, and 8 claimed to have antimicrobial properties. Prices ranged from $29 to $1,120. The tests compared absorbency, drying speed, durability, and the accuracy of fiber composition labels, and examined the antimicrobial performance of the 8 towels claiming such functionality.

The results were disappointing: only one of the eight towels with claimed antimicrobial properties was effective at inhibiting the growth of both Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella pneumoniae based on the JIS L 1902 standard. Six samples only inhibited one bacterium, and their antimicrobial ability decreased after 50 washes.

It is crucial to highlight that the price of a product does not necessarily correlate with its quality. Consumers should make informed decisions rather than basing them solely on price or design.

Bath towels are prone to microbial growth due to constant contact with water and body oils, especially in the warm, moist environment of a bathroom. To reduce the chances of bacterial and mold growth, there is an evident need for towels with scientifically verified antimicrobial fabric technology. Such towels not only provide the basic functionality expected of them but also ensure a higher standard of hygiene and health safety for consumers. As the market evolves, manufacturers must prioritize the development of fabrics that can reliably offer these benefits. Consumers, on the other hand, should seek out and invest in towels that promise and deliver scientifically backed antimicrobial properties, ensuring their well-being and getting the best value for their money.

Source: https://www.consumer.org.hk/tc/press-release/p-546-bath-towels