A durable antiodor finish for cotton textiles

Poly(hexamethylene biguanide hydrochloride) can be used as an antiodor finish for cotton textiles and other cellulosic materials. Application is by conventional means such as padding or exhaustion. Controlling the populations of bacteria living on the fabric, which generate volatile odor molecules, is the mechanism of odor prevention. A reduction in viable bacteria of two to three orders of magnitude is sufficient to significantly reduce detectable odor. Odor on domestic articles such as toweling and socks is reduced by treatment. Ammonia generation by bacterial metabolism of urea on cellulose is reduced to below the human limit of detection by treating the cellulase.