While interior experts have been working with what is known as “performance fabrics” for years, the emphasis now is on a certain fabric within that class. Unlike others that offer surface-level stain-resistance, Crypton is a textile uniquely created with a patented system that encases textile fibers with a copolymer formula. This process infuses the fabric with stain, moisture, mildew, odor-reducing, and that all-important anti-bacterial protection. Initially adapted in the healthcare industry and hospitality sector scenarios, Crypton is now used regularly within the residential home market for both indoor and outdoor fabric applications. Companies like Brentano offer many custom upholstery options that offer the added protection of Crypton.
HOME DESIGN
Spring Clean THE BEST IN GERM-BUSTING MATERIALS & SURFACES By Lisa J. Gotto
There has probably not been a more anticipated spring than this one of 2021. (Closely rivaled, of course, by spring 2020.) But with this spring, we see an even greater light at the end of the tunnel. Life at home will change as we slowly progress to doing more outside of the house. And who isn’t looking forward to that? As predicted, however, the pandemic has altered some things in our lives for the foreseeable future, if not for good. The concept of the annual ritual of spring cleaning seems to take on more significance now that we have realized just how precious and essential our interior spaces really are. To that end, home industry professionals including manufacturers and fabricators are assessing and addressing new needs when it comes to what our interiors are made of and what they need to do for us now.
What We Touch, Touches Us Surfaces and materials within the home are taking center stage as it makes sense going forward that they work to protect us, as well as comfort and serve us. 110
What’s Up? Annapolis | April 2021 | whatsupmag.com
With demand for fabric coatings that also possess virus-resistant properties now high, scientific research in this area has been robust. The University of Pittsburgh has been actively studying how to make more efficient PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) for healthcare professionals and is making significant strides. Currently, a coating is being developed that can be applied to PPE and furnishings such as those in doctor’s offices and schools where viruses easily spread. With consumer interest high, the goal is to eventually provide coatings of this nature to manufacturers of home furnishings, as expediently as possible.
COMING TO A LIVING ROOM NEAR YOU? These marvels are already being used in hospitals, and for commercial and industrial applications. Using UV light that kills 99.9 percent of bacteria, the autonomous ZenZoe robot can treat an entire room in 15 minutes. Can residential applications be too far behind? Smaller, portable personal home sanitizer units are already available for in-home applications. These little wonders also use UV light to remove 99.9 percent of illness-causing microbes. For just under $80 you can purchase a PhoneSoap 3 for your mobile phone.
