BTN News: We’ve all been there—after a good workout, our clothes smell nothing like when we first put them on. It’s clear that sweat and fabric together create a distinct odor. But there’s more to it. Some clothes seem to smell worse than others after a trip to the gym. Science now has an explanation for why some fabrics retain odors more strongly.
The Study
A study from the University of Alberta delves into why certain fibers smell more than others when exposed to sweat. The research, led by Rachel McQueen from the Faculty of Agricultural, Life & Environmental Sciences, revealed that natural fibers like cotton and viscose (derived from plants) absorb and release fewer odor-causing compounds compared to synthetic fibers such as polyester, nylon, and wool.
Mimicking Sweat
To conduct their research, McQueen’s team used a simulated sweat solution. This solution was agitated with different fabrics for a couple of minutes and then left to rest for half an hour. The fabric was then removed, slightly dehydrated, and left to allow odor particles to permeate the material.
Measuring the Odor
The researchers employed mass spectrometry to measure the odor levels in the fabrics. This technique measures the mass-to-charge ratio of ions, allowing for real-time detection of odors in the air. This method provided a precise and objective measurement of how much each fabric smelled after being soaked in sweat.
The Results
The findings were clear: natural fibers like cotton, linen, and hemp absorbed and released fewer odor-causing compounds. In contrast, synthetic fibers such as polyester and wool absorbed more odors and released them more intensely.
The Chemistry of Sweat
McQueen explains that sweat consists mainly of water but also contains oily compounds that cause odor. These oily substances interact differently with various fibers. While water-loving fibers like cotton and viscose absorb more sweat, polyester prefers oils and thus absorbs more odor-causing compounds, which do not dissolve in water and can become malodorous.
Polyester: The Worst Offender
Interestingly, the study found that while nylon and wool initially smelled stronger, their odors dissipated significantly after 24 hours. However, polyester retained its smell, indicating that it needs to be washed thoroughly after each use. This makes polyester one of the least favorable fabrics for workout clothes, despite being one of the cheapest.
Final Advice
Given these findings, researchers suggest that those who exercise frequently or sweat a lot should avoid polyester clothing. Even garments labeled as anti-odor might not be effective if they rely on antimicrobial treatments. The fabric’s chemistry and its interaction with odors play a crucial role.
Conclusion
We already know that the fabric of our clothes can influence how hot or cold we feel. Now, science has identified which fabrics are the worst when it comes to holding onto bad smells. If you sweat a lot, steer clear of polyester. Choosing natural fibers like cotton or linen could save you from some embarrassing post-workout odors.
