When workwear gets sweaty: why the right fabric makes all the difference
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- 3 min read
High temperatures, physical labour and long working days are part of everyday life for many employees in the summer. It is not just a matter of comfort, however. Sweat can also affect hygiene, skin tolerance and the lifespan of workwear.
What happens when we sweat?
Sweating is the body’s natural response to regulate body temperature. It becomes a problem when moisture remains in the clothing. This can make the clothing uncomfortable to wear and put additional strain on the skin.
Damp clothing can increase friction and contribute to skin irritation. Areas subject to a lot of movement or close contact with clothing are particularly affected. At the same time, this creates an ideal environment for the growth of bacteria, which are responsible for unpleasant odours.
Interestingly, sweat itself is virtually odourless. The typical smell of sweat only develops when bacteria on the skin and in clothing break down components of the sweat. The longer moisture remains in the fabric, the more noticeable this effect can become.
Why odours often don’t go away
Many modern textiles are washed at lower temperatures. Whilst this is gentler on the fabric and reduces energy consumption, it can mean that odour-causing bacteria are not completely removed.
Odours can become embedded in the fabric, particularly in workwear that is subjected to heavy wear and tear. The result: although the shirt looks clean, it starts to smell unpleasant again after only a short time of wear.
The material also influences how strongly odours are perceived. Some fibres wick away moisture more effectively than others and dry more quickly. This reduces the amount of time moisture remains trapped in the clothing. The choice of material therefore plays an important role – particularly with daily use and frequent sweating.
Sweat isn’t just a nuisance for the person wearing it
As well as affecting comfort and hygiene, sweat can also have an impact on the clothing itself. Sweat contains, amongst other things, salts and other components that can cause long-term wear and tear on textiles. Combined with UV radiation, dirt and frequent washing cycles, materials are put under particular strain during everyday working life.
That is why high-quality fibres, robust construction and materials tailored to the specific application are key factors in determining the lifespan of workwear.
The role of the material
Not every material handles moisture in the same way. Breathability, moisture management, washability and odour control vary significantly depending on the fibre and finish.
Performance T-shirts and sweaters
Modern performance fabrics are breathable and help wick away moisture. Moisture is drawn away from the skin, keeping you feeling drier.
Another advantage is that these items can be washed at high temperatures, which makes them easier to clean hygienically and can help remove odours from the clothing in the long term.
TENCEL™
TENCEL™ is characterised by high breathability and excellent moisture management. The fibre absorbs and releases moisture, helping to maintain a comfortable body temperature.
This can significantly improve comfort, particularly in changing temperatures and during physical activity. Many wearers also appreciate the pleasant feel against the skin and the fibre’s natural properties.
BIOACTIVE® with zinc finish
Selected shirts feature a zinc-based BIOACTIVE® finish.
This helps to reduce odour-causing bacteria and ensures that the clothing stays fresh for longer – particularly when subjected to heavy wear and frequent use.
This can make a noticeable difference to day-to-day working life, particularly in sectors where workwear is used on a daily basis.
Cooling products also benefit from antibacterial properties
It is not just clothing, but also modern cooling products that can be designed with antibacterial properties. This further enhances hygiene and comfort – particularly when used frequently during hot working days.
Cooling products can be a useful addition when high temperatures become a burden over prolonged periods.
What should companies look out for when choosing summer workwear?
When selecting workwear for hot working days, it is worth considering several factors:
Breathable materials
Good moisture management
Hygienic washability
Help in reducing odour-causing bacteria
High durability despite frequent washing
Comfortable to wear, even during physical exertion
Depending on the job and working environment, different solutions may be appropriate.
Conclusion
As temperatures rise, it is not just the cut of the clothing that determines comfort. Breathable materials, effective moisture management, hygienic washability and antibacterial finishes play a key role in ensuring that workwear remains comfortable to wear even on long summer days.
Choosing the right material can make a noticeable difference – both to employees’ well-being and to the durability of the clothing.
From performance products and TENCEL™ to BIOACTIVE® finishes and cooling products, a range of solutions is now available to meet the demands of hot working days.