During a discussion at LaundrexNet 2024, professional laundry operators raised concerns that, with the use of enzymes, they have observed linen losing its texture within six months. While enzyme-based detergents are generally considered gentle on fabrics, the operators’ observations prompted the Clean India Journal team to explore potential explanations. It is important to note that any washing solution, whether chemical-based or enzyme-based, can damage fabric over time if used excessively.
Enzymes are biological catalysts, typically proteins, that accelerate chemical reactions without being consumed in the process. They exhibit high specificity, meaning they target particular substances (substrates) for specific results. In laundry detergents, enzymes break down stains by binding to stain molecules, forming an enzyme-substrate complex, and triggering a reaction that breaks the stain into smaller, water-soluble fragments. These fragments dissolve in water and are washed away, leaving the fabric clean.
Enzymes in laundry detergents are highly effective at breaking down various types of stains: proteases target protein stains, amylases handle carbohydrate stains, lipases deal with grease, and cellulases improve fabric brightness.
Enzyme-based detergents work effectively when used rightly. Although they may seem a little expensive initially, their efficiency and energy-saving properties make them more cost-effective in the long run.”
– Bharat Panchal, Managing Director of Vikr Bioscience Pvt. Ltd
Factors Leading to Fabric Damage
One significant factor contributing to fabric damage is overuse. Whether cleaning floors or washing linens, overdosing on either chemical or enzyme detergents can result in fabric degradation. When enzyme-based detergents are used in excess or at improper concentrations, the enzymes may break down not only stains but also the fabric itself, leading to faster degradation of fibres, fraying, or thinning over time.
The solution lies in understanding the correct dosage, which can be better managed with automated dosing systems. Additionally, the effectiveness of enzymes can be influenced by water temperature and pH. Enzymes function best within a specific range of conditions, and if the laundry operation uses them at high temperatures or in harsh conditions, they could become overly aggressive, impacting fabric integrity.
Further, commercial laundry operations often use high-speed washers and dryers that add mechanical stress to the fabric. When enzymes are combined with these conditions, the combined stress from both the mechanical action and enzymatic breakdown may lead to quicker fibre breakdown.
Certain fabrics, especially delicate or older ones, may be more vulnerable to the action of enzymes. In such cases, enzymes may cause fibre breakdown faster than traditional chemical detergents, leading to a reduced lifespan for the linen.
Comparison Between Enzyme-Based and Chemical-Based Detergents
Sustainability
Enzyme-based laundry liquids have clear environmental advantages over chemical detergents. They are biodegradable and break down naturally, posing less harm to aquatic life compared to detergents with harmful substances like phosphates. These detergents also tend to have a lower pH, further reducing their environmental impact. Additionally, enzyme-based formulas are often concentrated, reducing packaging waste and minimizing their ecological footprint. Chemical detergents, on the other hand, contribute significantly to environmental pollution. Many of their chemical compounds are not biodegradable and can persist in the environment, causing long-term damage.
Fabric Quality
Enzyme-based laundry liquids are gentle on fabrics, helping to reduce wear and tear while preserving the fibres. They are effective at breaking down dirt and stains without damaging the fabric, helping to maintain colour and texture. Enzymes are especially effective in removing protein-based stains such as blood, grass, and sweat. Additionally, they break down odour-causing molecules, leaving clothes smelling fresh longer. Enzyme-based detergents also reduce pilling and fuzzing, which helps fabrics maintain a newer look for longer. Unlike harsh chemicals in traditional detergents, enzymes do not cause fibre breakdown, colour fading, shrinkage, or damage to fabric finishes like water repellence or anti-wrinkle treatments.
Safety and Health Benefits
Enzyme-based detergents are typically safer for sensitive skin compared to chemical detergents, which often contain synthetic surfactants, phosphates, and fragrances that can cause irritation, allergic reactions, or respiratory problems. Enzymes, being natural proteins, target stains without causing irritation, making them gentler on the skin. This makes enzyme-based detergents a better choice for individuals with skin sensitivities or allergies, offering effective cleaning without the risks associated with chemical detergents.
Energy and Cost Efficiency
Enzyme-based detergents are energy-efficient, working effectively at lower temperatures and reducing the need for hot water. This lowers electricity usage, which helps decrease energy consumption, carbon emissions, and the overall environmental impact. Although enzyme-based detergents may appear more expensive initially, they are cost-effective in the long run. Their effectiveness at lower temperatures means less energy is required, and their superior stain removal power means that less detergent is needed per load, leading to long-term savings.