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| Figure 1. Callewaert et al. (2014). Odor levels of cotton (green) versus polyester (red) based on five odor characterizations ranging in value from 0 (no odor) to 10 (strong odor/intolerable). |
Performing aerobic activity has a multitude of health
benefits but an aspect individuals may overlook is choice of clothing may encourage
the growth of specific microorganisms and enhance the malodor emitted. A study carried
out by Callewart et al. analyzed the odor profile of cotton versus polyester
t-shirts after an extensive bout of exercise. The researchers found that the polyester
t-shirts were more repugnant when compared to their cotton counterparts on all
five characteristics analyzed (Figure 1). It was theorized that this finding
was based on the fact that polyester is a synthetic fiber, which adsorbs odors
less readily and encourages the growth of malodor creating microbes such as Micrococcus spp. This study has several
health implications beyond what we find unpleasant due to the growth of these particular microbial species. So the next time you’re thinking of hitting that
gym hard, consider reaching for the 100% cotton tee instead of your polyester
number.
Original Article:
Callewaert C, Maeseneire ED, Kerchof FM, Verliefde A, Wiele T, Boon N (2014). Microbial odor profile of polyester and cotton clothes after a fitness session. Applied Environmental Microbiology. 88: 6611-6619.
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