Sustainability and Social Responsibility

Wash it, or wear it? Perceptions of odor control technologies on activewear and their influence on the likelihood to launder

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Abstract

The consumer phase in the clothing life cycle significantly impacts energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. As odor can compel laundering, assumptions that odor-control technologies will reduce laundering frequency can be made. This study examined the effectiveness of antimicrobial (AM) and anti-odor (AO) finishes in reducing washing frequency for activewear. An experimental survey with university students (n=115) was used to test the null hypotheses that AM and AO treatments on activewear would not significantly differ from no odor control treatment. The experimental survey used hypothetical scenarios regarding wear and laundering choices. Results showed no significant differences among treatments in prompting extended wear without washing. Hence, AM- or AO-treated garments did not result in less laundering than untreated activewear. These findings challenge assumptions about the impact of such treatments on laundering habits, highlighting consumers' ingrained laundry practices.

Keywords: Performance apparel, antimicrobial, anti-odor, consumer behavior, laundering

How to Cite:

Marsha, S., McQueen, R. & Dolez, P., (2024) “Wash it, or wear it? Perceptions of odor control technologies on activewear and their influence on the likelihood to launder”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 80(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.17443