When sweat odor comes from more than just the body

Have you ever noticed that some shirts still smell of sweat even after being washed thoroughly?
The cause actually lies not only in the body, but in the fabric we wear every day.
According to the Journal of Applied Polymer Science (2020) , each fiber has a different ability to absorb and retain odors – like the body's “second skin,” reacting differently to sweat and bacteria.
That means: same person, same day, but cotton shirt, polyester shirt or silk shirt will "retain smell" completely differently.

Cotton – breathable but easily retains body odor

Cotton is a natural material that is loved for its ability to absorb sweat well. However, that also makes cotton easy to absorb body odor deep into the fabric fibers.
According to Textile Research Journal (2019) , cotton fibers have a porous and hydrophilic structure, easily absorbing sweat and fatty acids from the skin – the main cause of odor.
When exposed to bacteria, these compounds break down into aldehydes and isovaleric acid – creating the characteristic smell of cotton shirts after a long day.
The good news is that cotton is easy to clean and if dried quickly, the smell will disappear almost completely.
👉 Effective way to deodorize cotton clothes: wash immediately after wearing, dry in a well-ventilated place, avoid leaving damp clothes in the washing machine for too long.

Polyester – dries quickly but retains the scent the longest

Polyester is a popular synthetic material used in athletic clothing because it is durable and quick-drying. However, studies have shown that polyester is the fabric most likely to retain body odor.
According to the International Journal of Clothing Science and Technology (2021) , the hydrophobic surface of polyester causes sweat to accumulate with body oils – an ideal environment for Staphylococcus hominis bacteria, the bacteria that causes strong and persistent sweat odor.
Therefore, although polyester dries quickly, it still retains odors that are difficult to wash off.
👉 How to deodorize polyester sports shirts: wash in warm water at 40°C, use protein-reducing enzyme detergent and dry in mild sunlight.

Silk – the highest quality material that retains the least amount of odor

In complete contrast, silk retains almost no odor.
According to Materials Chemistry and Physics (2018) , silk fibers have a smooth, shiny surface, and are naturally antibacterial – preventing bacteria from growing.
Perspiration on silk evaporates quickly without leaving an unpleasant odor. However, silk requires careful care because it is sensitive to bleach and high heat.
👉 Tips to keep silk clean and fragrant: hand wash gently with mild solution, dry in the shade to keep its natural shine.

When materials come into contact with body odor – it's not just about cleaning

Body odor forms when sweat meets bacteria, and it's the fabric that holds that interaction.
If you choose the wrong material, the smell can linger and make your body feel unclean even after bathing or using perfume.
Therefore, experts recommend combining effective body deodorants and choosing airy clothes to help control odor from the root.

Breeze – deodorizes the body, keeps fabrics clean

Clean fabrics start with a clean body. Breeze Spray Fresh Protection 150ml and Breeze Roll-on Fresh Protection 50ml help reduce perspiration and prevent odor-causing bacteria on the skin – before odors can penetrate the fabric.
48h effective deodorant formula with fresh Italian perfume scent, blends with the body's natural scent, giving a clean, delicate and pleasant feeling all day long.
Whether you wear cotton, polyester or silk – Breeze keeps your body smelling light and confident like you just stepped out of the Italian breeze.

Conclusion – when we understand fabric, we also understand body odor

Each fabric is a "companion" of the skin.
Knowing which fabrics retain odors easily and which are naturally antibacterial helps us choose clothes that are more suitable for our bodies and living environment.
And when the body is cared for from the root – clean, dry, lightly scented – the clothes will naturally retain a feeling of freshness and elegance, just like the spirit of Breeze Italy.