Polygiene in Underwear – Antibacterial Underwear Technology

When looking for high-quality, comfortable underwear, we traditionally base our decision on a few key considerations – the fit, style, material, and, in some cases, features. But more and more consumers are expanding that list to include factors like odor control, longevity, and sustainability. 

Manufacturers that are ahead of the game and understand this trend are increasingly incorporating advanced antibacterial technologies like Polygiene StayFresh™ into their products. With this in mind, we created a quick guide to antibacterial underwear technology and how odor control technologies are changing the way consumers think about their purchases. 

What is antibacterial underwear?

Antibacterial underwear includes any undergarment specifically designed to inhibit the growth of odor-causing bacteria. While traditional underwear often provides bacteria with the perfect growth conditions, this specialist underwear incorporates technologies that prevent the spread of microbes. This results in clothing that stays fresher for longer, is more comfortable, and requires less frequent washing. They are ideal for day-to-day wear, travel, and physical activity, but also appeal to consumers who simply desire more sustainable, longer-lasting underwear.

What types of antibacterial underwear are there?

As manufacturers can integrate Polygiene StayFresh into almost any textile, the antibacterial and antimicrobial underwear category includes all types of underwear. We regularly see antibacterial solutions in:

• Briefs and boxer shorts
• Bras
• Leggings
• Undershirts
• Base layers

Why choose antibacterial underwear? 

Traditional underwear often suffers from issues with bacterial build-up, lack of longevity, unpleasant odors, and sustainability. Antibacterial briefs, panties and other antibacterial underwear solutions overcome many of these challenges. For instance:

• Prevents bacterial growth – whereas sweat and bodily fluids create the perfect conditions for bacterial growth in standard fabrics, antimicrobial underwear features advanced technology that prevents this.
• Odor-control – bacteria are one of the primary causes of unpleasant odors. By preventing bacterial growth, antibacterial underwear stays fresher for longer.
• Less frequent washing – unpleasant odors and bacterial build-up means traditional underwear needs washing daily. This specialist underwear requires less frequent washing, saving you time and money and reducing resource consumption associated with laundry. This also makes antibacterial underwear more environmentally friendly.
• Enhanced longevity – frequent washing is harsh on fabric fibers, causing premature wear and tear. Consequently, the underwear lasts longer, making it better for the environment and kinder on consumers’ pockets.

The science behind antibacterial underwear technology

Polygiene StayFresh uses silver chloride, a naturally occurring salt found in soil and water, to prevent bacterial growth. It works in three main ways:

1. It binds to the cell wall to disrupt growth.
2. It interferes with bacterial DNA to prevent cellular replication.
3. It interrupts enzyme action to prevent energy production.

This triple-threat action is highly effective, nullifying most bacterial growth and preventing the bad smells associated with it.