FAQ on BS EN ISO 20743:2021 for Antibacterial Textile Testing

FAQ on Determination of Antibacterial Activity of Textile Products

Overview of Antibacterial Textile Testing

At Airmid Healthgroup, we specialize in textile microbiology testing to help manufacturers verify the performance and integrity of their antibacterial treatments. As an ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratory, we apply internationally recognized methods such as ISO 20743:2021 to provide scientifically robust and independently validated results.

The ISO 20743:2021 standard specifies quantitative test methods to determine the antibacterial activity of textile products incorporating antibacterial finishes. It applies to a broad range of fabrics, including woven and nonwoven materials used in clothing, bedding, and home furnishings.

Test Description

Under controlled laboratory conditions, samples of both treated (test) and untreated (control) fabrics are inoculated with specified bacteria — typically Staphylococcus aureus or Klebsiella pneumoniae. Other bacterial strains can be tested upon request.

Following incubation for a defined period (usually 18 to 24 hours), viable bacteria are extracted from each sample and enumerated. The antibacterial activity of the treated textile is then calculated according to the criteria set out in ISO 20743:2021.

Sample Submission for Antibacterial Textile Testing

A detailed quotation will be provided based on:

• The number of samples submitted, and
• The number of bacterial strains requested for testing.

Turnaround Time

We aim to deliver a comprehensive test report within four weeks of receiving your samples.

Third-Party Validation

Products that meet the test criteria may reference that they have been tested by Airmid Healthgroup to BS EN ISO 20743:2021 (formerly BS EN ISO 20743:2013) in support of any related performance claims and associated data.

Related Tests and Services at Airmid Healthgroup

BS EN ISO 20743:2021: Determination of antibacterial activity of textile products

Biomedical Textiles Testing Services

ISO 18184 standard : Determination of antiviral activity of textile products.

Related Blogs and Case Studies

Protect-A-Bed®: Leading the Way in Mattress Protection with AAFA-Certified Allerzip Encasements

Airmid Healthgroup Validates Allergen Barrier Efficacy of AeroSleep Baby Protect Mattress

Spring Air and Airmid Healthgroup Partner to Launch the First Certified asthma & allergy friendly® Mattress in the United States

Oliver Dsa MSc

Oliver Dsa, MSc, is a senior scientist at Airmid Healthgroup and a leading specialist in environmental virology and the transmission dynamics of airborne pathogens. With extensive experience in high-containment laboratory research and virological assay development, Oliver plays a central role in the design and execution of GLP-compliant studies that evaluate the real-world performance of antimicrobial, antiviral, and air purification technologies. At Airmid Healthgroup, Oliver’s work supports global manufacturers, healthcare innovators, and regulatory teams by generating scientifically robust data that withstands scrutiny from FDA, EPA, ISO, and CE marking bodies. He is deeply engaged in testing solutions for infection prevention across healthcare, residential, commercial, and transport environments. Through his contributions to Airmid’s blog, Oliver translates complex virology and bioaerosol science into actionable insights. His writing supports product developers, indoor air quality experts, and public health professionals in navigating the fast-evolving intersection of airborne disease control, ventilation standards (including ASHRAE 241), and surface decontamination strategies. In his blog contributions, Oliver breaks down complex scientific issues—ranging from airborne pathogens to surface decontamination and beyond—into clear, actionable insights for professionals in healthcare, building science, consumer product development, and public health.

See Full Bio