The exceptional mite- and mildew-resistant properties of mulberry silk fabric stem from its dual protective mechanism of natural ingredients and fiber structure. As a natural protein fiber made from silkworm cocoons, mulberry silk is coated with a layer of colloidal protein—seric acid. This substance not only serves as a protective layer during silk formation but also endows the fabric with unique antibacterial and mildew-resistant properties. Seric acid molecules contain natural antibacterial components such as flavonoids and phenols. These active substances can directly disrupt the cell membrane structure of microorganisms, inhibiting the reproduction of bacteria and fungi. For example, when Staphylococcus aureus or Escherichia coli come into contact with sericin, their cell membranes are penetrated by the hydroxyl and amino groups in the sericin, causing leakage of cell contents and thus loss of activity. This antibacterial mechanism based on natural ingredients does not rely on chemical additives, making it gentler on human skin, especially suitable for people with sensitive skin.
The fiber structure of mulberry silk further enhances its mite- and mildew-resistant capabilities. A single silk fiber is only one-tenth the diameter of a human hair and is hollow and porous, allowing countless tiny pores to form within the fiber. When sweat or moisture released during sleep comes into contact with the fabric, the pores quickly conduct the moisture to the fiber surface through capillary action, accelerating evaporation. Experiments show that mulberry silk fabric's moisture absorption is 1.5 times that of cotton, while its breathability far surpasses that of synthetic fibers. This "breathable" feel keeps the fabric surface dry, stabilizing humidity at 40%-50%—a level far below the 60%-80% humidity required for dust mites to survive, thus cutting off their breeding chain at its source. Simultaneously, the hollow structure of the fibers effectively blocks the attachment of dust mite food sources such as dander, further compressing their living space.
The waxy components in sericin also provide additional protection against dust mites and mildew. These natural waxes form a hydrophobic film on the fiber surface, preventing external moisture from penetrating the fiber and avoiding fiber deformation due to moisture absorption and expansion. This synergistic effect of physical barrier and chemical antibacterial properties allows mulberry silk fabric to maintain its stability even in humid environments. For example, during the rainy season or in humid southern regions, ordinary cotton fabrics are prone to mold growth due to moisture absorption, while mulberry silk fabric maintains a relatively dry interior even after several weeks of continuous use, preventing mold spores from germinating due to lack of moisture. Furthermore, the waxy layer reduces the fiber's contact with allergens such as dust and pollen in the air, lowering the risk of allergic reactions.
From a microscopic perspective, the interweaving pattern of mulberry silk fibers also significantly impacts its mite-proof properties. High-quality mulberry silk fabric is hand-drawn, resulting in a mesh-like interweaving of fibers. The resulting "microspaces" allow for air circulation but prevent mites (adults are approximately 0.1-0.5 mm long) from burrowing in to lay eggs. This tight yet flexible fiber network ensures both the fabric's soft touch and creates a physical barrier against mites. In contrast, synthetic fabrics, with their coarse fibers and larger pores, allow mites to nest and reproduce within the fiber gaps; while cotton fabrics, although soft and delicate, easily attract dander, becoming a "food reservoir" for mites.
The anti-mold properties of mulberry silk fabric are also reflected in its inhibitory effect on common molds. Molds such as Aspergillus niger and Penicillium citrinum easily form mold spots on the fabric surface in humid and hot environments, and secrete corrosive substances such as citric acid and oxalic acid, leading to fiber degradation. However, the sericin in mulberry silk can adsorb mold spores, blocking their contact with the fiber. Simultaneously, the released antibacterial components inhibit the activity of mold metabolic enzymes, preventing them from synthesizing the nutrients needed for growth. This dual anti-mold mechanism of "contact inhibition + metabolic interference" allows mulberry silk fabric to maintain a clean state for a long time during storage, even without the addition of anti-mold agents.
Durability under long-term use is another advantage of mulberry silk fabric's anti-mite and anti-mold properties. Traditional chemical anti-mite finishing agents are gradually lost through washing, while the antibacterial and anti-mite properties of mulberry silk originate from its natural components and fiber structure, thus exhibiting stronger wash resistance. After more than 50 washes, high-quality mulberry silk fabric can still maintain more than 80% of its initial sericin content, with an antibacterial rate decrease of less than 10%. This durability makes mulberry silk fabric an ideal choice for baby and maternity products, as well as medical textiles. For example, babies have delicate skin and are prone to eczema caused by dust mite excrement, while mulberry silk bedding significantly reduces this risk. Hospital bedding requires frequent disinfection, and mulberry silk fabric maintains its antibacterial properties even after high-temperature steam treatment, reducing the possibility of cross-infection.
From an ecological perspective, the anti-mite and anti-mildew properties of mulberry silk fabric also embody the harmonious coexistence of nature and technology. Its antibacterial components originate from the biotransformation of silkworms consuming mulberry leaves, requiring no artificially synthesized chemicals, thus making the production process more environmentally friendly. Furthermore, the biodegradability of the fiber avoids environmental pollution from discarded fabrics. This "from nature, back to nature" circular model aligns perfectly with current green consumption trends. When consumers choose mulberry silk fabric, they are not only investing in their health but also supporting a sustainable lifestyle—a choice that is driving the textile industry towards a more environmentally friendly and healthier direction.
