Deodorizing Finish

Definition and Overview

Deodorizing finish is a functional finish that uses methods such as adsorbing odor-causing components with fibers or finishing agents, or chemically breaking down or neutralizing them. Because the mechanism and target odors vary depending on the material and finishing conditions, the stated details and test conditions should be checked.

The finish may be applied in the dyeing and finishing process of the textile, or it may be applied at the product stage. The base fabric can be cotton, polyester, nylon, and many other materials, and deodorizing finish is a term that indicates an added function rather than a material name or a weave or knit structure name.

Features and Hand Feel

In many cases, deodorizing finish does not greatly change the appearance, but depending on the type of finishing agent and the amount applied, there may be slight differences in hand feel such as firmness, stiffness, or a moist feel. Whether the textile is light or dark in color, the effect on hue and luster should also be checked with a sample.

The persistence of the function depends on the finishing method, the bonding properties with the fibers, washing conditions, and similar factors. It does not always completely eliminate odors, and perception also varies depending on the amount of odor generated and the wearing environment, so it is important not to overstate the scope of the claim when planning the product.

Main Applications

It is used for innerwear, socks, nightwear, and sportswear, which are worn close to the skin and are likely to collect sweat and sebum during wear. For uniforms and workwear, adoption may be considered with long hours of wear or situations where changing clothes is difficult in mind.

Although it is often used for thin garments for spring and summer, it is also applied to autumn and winter garments that are worn in layers, as well as bedding-related products. When deciding the application, consider not only deodorizing performance but also the combination with performance needed for the wearing environment, such as absorbency, quick-drying properties, warmth retention, and breathability.

• Innerwear and underwear
• Sportswear
• Nightwear
• Uniforms and workwear

How to Choose and Handling Precautions

When selecting, check the target odor, the working principle of the finish, performance after washing, the target material, and the hand feel. For products that are washed repeatedly in particular, confirm with the supplier how many washes were used and by what test method the performance was evaluated, and judge whether the durability suits the application.

Shrinkage is affected more by the base fabric material, knit or weave structure, whether heat setting or shrink-resistance treatment was applied, and washing conditions than by the deodorizing finish itself. Before mass production, carry out a washing test and confirm the shrinkage rate, hand feel, color change, and retained function, then align the washing instructions and product specifications.

In sewing, it can often be handled in the same way as ordinary textile, but the effect of heat and steam, and whether a pressing cloth is needed during ironing, should follow the finishing specifications. If fusible interlining, printing, or product washing are used together, confirm the effect on finishing performance and appearance through trial samples in advance.

Differences from Similar Terms

Antibacterial deodorizing is a finish that aims to control odor by suppressing the growth of bacteria that cause odors. By contrast, deodorizing finish may focus on adsorbing, breaking down, or neutralizing odor components that have already been generated. However, some finishes have both functions, so performance should not be judged by the name alone.

Quick-drying moisture absorption is a comfort function that absorbs sweat and helps it dry more easily, and it does not directly indicate deodorizing performance. Reducing dampness from sweat may make odors less noticeable, but its mechanism and evaluation items differ from those of deodorizing finish.

Frequently Asked Questions