In the world of household cleaning, hygiene is essential—especially when it comes to laundry. But how can we ensure a truly clean result without relying on harsh chemicals? The answer comes from DeatexGroup, with an innovative, patented textile solution: Bacteria Catcher, also known as B-Catcher.

What is Bacteria Catcher?

Bacteria Catcher is a nonwoven fabric sheet designed to attract and trap bacteria during washing. Its action is based on a physical rather than chemical mechanism, and it is not classified as a biocidal product under European Regulation 528/2012—it doesn't destroy, it traps.

How does it work?

Thanks to cationic polymers and the study of weak electrostatic interactions (such as Van der Waals forces), the fabric creates a charge difference between its surface and the bacterial cell membrane. This attracts the bacteria in the presence of water or humidity, activating the mechanism.

🌀 The mechanism of action is clearly illustrated in the electrostatic diagram provided in the research study, which helps visualize how bacteria are physically pulled toward the sheet.

This process was validated by the Italian National Research Council (CNR), which confirmed an antibacterial effectiveness of 73% to 100% in vitro, tested against E. Coli, K. Pneumoniae, and S. Aureus.

Why it’s not a biocide

Unlike traditional antimicrobial agents, Bacteria Catcher does not kill bacteria, but physically binds them. This means there are no inhibition zones (a hallmark of biocides), and bacteria can only be removed with intense treatment, such as ultrasonic baths with surfactants for at least 30 minutes.

🧪 “Bacteria catcher” fabric before (a) and after (b) removal from the agarized soil at the end of the test; (c) standard cotton fabric at the end of the test; (d) standard method ISO 20645/2004 test with inhibition zone taken from literature.

Proven results in laundry applications

Bacteria Catcher has been independently tested under real laundry conditions:

• 2-hour cycle at 40°C, both with and without detergent (Dixan and Winni’s)
• Contaminated test fabrics included E. hirae, E. coli, S. cerevisiae, A. niger

🧫 The performance data shows significant bacterial reduction even with high biocontamination levels (10⁵ and 10⁹ CFU/ml), validating its functionality without soap.

🧴 Comparative test results clearly show that in the absence of Bacteria Catcher, microbial load remains significantly higher. The sheet ensures a safer, cleaner wash.

Safe to use

• Patch test (ISO 10993-10, 48h): not irritating
• Food contact compliant (EC 1935/2004) with 10-day migration tests in acetic acid, sunflower oil, and ethanol 15%
• Post-use safety: microbial growth remains insignificant even after 48h from use

✅ Independent safety testing confirms the sheet poses no health risks, even with direct skin contact or food contact exposure.

Two-in-one functionality

Bacteria Catcher’s polymer structure is compatible with color transfer inhibition, enabling it to function as both an antibacterial and anti-color migration sheet in one.

Sustainability first

In line with DeatexGroup’s commitment to sustainability, Bacteria Catcher is made with biodegradable materials, free from PFAS and toxic substances. The company is certified FSC, PEFC, GRS, and actively pursues innovative, eco-conscious textile technologies.

Conclusions

Bacteria Catcher is a game-changing antibacterial innovation for the laundry market. It is:

• Highly effective
• Non-biocidal, so not subject to EU Regulation 528/2012
• Safe, sustainable, and suitable for everyday use

It provides a tangible response to growing consumer demand for chemical-free hygiene solutions—without compromising on cleanliness or safety.

Interested in learning more? Contact DeatexGroup to explore customized laundry care solutions for your product line or brand.