November 24, 2015
It is a question that continues to be asked throughout the industry: how many washes will it last? As a supplier of antimicrobial and anti-odor solutions, our answer is simple: let the brand decide.
The home laundering (HL) specification for a garment can vary widely depending on the product category and intended use. Because of this, it’s difficult to standardize one number that applies to all treated fabrics.
For example, if an anti-odor technology is applied to socks, should it be held to the same durability expectations as high-performance athletic wear or outerwear? Probably not.
Each product type carries its own wash frequency, performance needs, and life cycle—all of which influence how durable the treatment should be.
In general, the industry standard for wash durability is around 50 home launderings (50HL).
This benchmark roughly translates to a garment being washed once a week for about a year. However, the right number depends on how often the product is worn and washed.
Underwear, socks, and base layers are washed frequently, so they may require a more durable antimicrobial or odor-control finish.
Outerwear or technical apparel is laundered less often, meaning a lighter treatment may still meet performance expectations.
Durability should always be evaluated alongside the product’s expected lifespan—not just its washing frequency.
Working with an antimicrobial and anti-odor partner that offers customized performance levels allows brands to align treatment durability with product use and cost targets.
A tailored approach can make odor-control finishes more cost-effective while maintaining performance—whether the application is an everyday undergarment or a premium sportswear line.
So, how many washes should a treated garment last?
It depends on the fabric, chemistry, and performance requirements of the end use. The most accurate way to determine durability is through standardized wash testing and real-world performance evaluation.
There are many variables that influence how long a treated garment should last—fiber type, finish chemistry, application method, and consumer care habits all play a role.
Ultimately, the “desired number of washes” isn’t a fixed standard. It’s a design decision based on how the product will be worn, washed, and expected to perform over time.
There are certainly a lot of factors to take into consideration for what seems like a simple question. With that said, there are several questions to consider when adding an antimicrobial or anti-odor solution to fabric.
We’ve put together a list of 7 questions every apparel brand should ask when considering odor control, which you can download below.