Let’s talk anti microbial and sustainable fabrics

We all know the Commercial, Cruise and Ferry industries rely heavily on high volume passengers and depend on a large numbers of crew to keep the vessel in operation.

With this in mind, the challenge of specifying and scoping fabrics for newbuild and refit projects can feel overwhelming. Plus, with the ongoing battle to fight against climate change and the spread of COVID-19 or other prominent virus’, such as Norovirus; it has now become the standard to source fabrics with anti microbial and eco-friendly properties.

To alleviate the pain of this procurement process, our maritime customers, such as outfitters, designers and project managers can rest assured that we only use IMO/Med approved flame retardant fabrics. Plus we’re working in partnership with global fabric suppliers to source fabrics that also combat the spread of disease. Many of our customers benefit by saving time (and money) allowing us to source fabrics for their projects, but these are the most common questions we’re asked when we begin the project.

What are…

Anti-microbial fabrics?

Anti-microbial fabrics are treated in a way which permanently kills and inhibits the growth of microbes and bacteria, it has always been popular in healthcare environments but has become more ‘well known’ to the wider market since the pandemic.

and sustainable fabrics?

The focus on climate change has brought textile manufacturers attention toward more sustainable fabrics such as Sea-Tex, which is made from plastic waste.

Solarglide Curtain Fabrics

Where can these fabrics be used?

Both anti microbial and sustainable fabrics are perfect for areas where there’s a high volume of traffic, such as public spaces on cruise ships and ferries, even cabin areas. Curtains and soft furnishings particularly benefit from these types fabric and, thankfully, look aesthetically pleasing while remaining functional.

How does anti microbial fabrics work?

As bacteria and viruses can become trapped in textiles, they can still contaminate with human contact. However fabrics that are treated with anti microbial technology significantly reduces the chances of spreading. The active ingredient is bound to the textile and when the microorganism makes contact, the active ingredient punctures the cell wall, rendering it useless. Fabrics treated with anti microbial technology are a permanent solution.

Does it protect against SARS CoV-2 (Covid-19)?

Depending on the fabric supplier, their textiles may have been tested against other Coronavirus with similar characteristics to Covid-19. We would always request certification from authoritative bodies with any fabric claiming to offer this protection.

What fabric choices do we offer?

We work with a large number of global fabric suppliers (e.g. Edmund Bell, Delius, Drapilux, Panaz and more) who are choosing to focus their attention on anti-microbial and sustainable fabrics. It is our mission to move towards more environmentally friendly materials and we’re happy to source these on behalf of our Clients.

Are you a fabric supplier?

If so, get in touch! We’d love to expand our network of fabric suppliers, particularly those with IMO/MED approved flame retardant fabrics suitable for the maritime industry. We’re keen to source suppliers who are trending towards more sustainable materials, recycled materials and anti microbial fabrics.