Hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) are one of the leading causes of preventable death in healthcare settings worldwide. In South Asia, where ward overcrowding and high patient turnover are the norm, the clothing worn by doctors, nurses, and dentists is a significant — and often overlooked — vector for pathogen transmission. Silvadur™ was developed to change that.
What Is Silvadur™?
Silvadur™ is a silver-based antimicrobial technology developed by Dow Chemical Company and licensed to premium fabric manufacturers globally. It works by embedding silver ions directly into the fabric fibre — not as a surface coating that washes off, but as a permanent part of the textile structure. Silver ions disrupt bacterial cell membranes, preventing bacterial replication on the fabric surface.
Silvadur™ in dews COMFex scrubs maintains antibacterial efficacy through 50+ industrial wash cycles — tested to AATCC 100 standards.
Why It Matters for Nepal's Healthcare Workers
MRSA, Clostridioides difficile, and Klebsiella pneumoniae are among the most common HAI-causing bacteria found on healthcare workers' clothing. Standard fabrics harbour these bacteria for hours to days. Silvadur-treated fabric actively eliminates over 99.9% of tested bacteria between wash cycles.
Does Antibacterial Treatment Affect Fabric Feel?
No. The Silvadur™ treatment is fully integrated at the fibre level and does not affect the 4-way stretch, softness, or moisture-wicking performance of COMFex fabric. You get the same premium comfort with an invisible layer of clinical protection.
How to Preserve Silvadur™ Through Washing
- Wash at 30°C — high temperatures degrade silver-ion bonds
- Use mild non-bleach detergent — chlorine bleach permanently neutralises silver ions
- Line dry or tumble dry on low heat only
- Rated for 50+ wash cycles under correct care conditions
