# Textile Nanotechnology Breakthrough Self-cleaning Fabrics By Ayman | Published 2008-02-12 | Eco Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/self-cleaning-fabrics References: [telegraph](http://www.telegraph.co.uk/earth/main.jhtml?view=DETAILS&grid;=&xml;=/earth/2008/02/11/scisock111.xml) Great news for us clumsy/ lazy people and for the environment as well. With the help of nanotechnology, self cleaning forms of wool and silk have been developed. The technology used is a nano particle coating, similar to the one already used to keep windows clear, that could lead to "self-cleaning" versions of wool and silk fabrics. The coating, which is non-toxic, can be permanently bonded to the fibre and does not alter its texture and feel. Besides the convenience and usefulness, this is also a wonderful environmental advance, as self-cleaning technology will help in reducing the consumption of chemicals, such as detergents and dry-cleaning solvents, water, and energy. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 4.6/10 - Popularity: 53% | Activity: 78% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 30% men, 70% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Eco](https://www.trendhunter.com/eco) ## Key Themes ### What's Driving This Trend - **Self-cleaning Fabrics:** The development of self-cleaning wool and silk fabrics using nanotechnology presents an opportunity to disrupt the textile industry. - **Nanoparticle Coating:** The use of nanoparticle coating to create self-cleaning fabrics has the potential to disrupt the manufacturing industry. - **Sustainable Fashion:** Self-cleaning fabrics can contribute to the sustainable fashion trend, offering environmentally-friendly alternatives to traditional cleaning methods. ### Who This Affects Most - **Textile Manufacturing:** The textile industry can innovate by incorporating self-cleaning technology into their products. - **Cleaning Products:** The development of self-cleaning fabrics presents an opportunity for cleaning product manufacturers to expand their offerings. - **Environmental Sustainability:** The use of self-cleaning fabrics can be integrated into sustainable fashion initiatives and contribute to reducing environmental impact. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [PFAS-Free Anti-Wicking Finishes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/green-theme-technologies-launched.md) - [Hydrophobic Technical Tees](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/technical-tee.md) - [Fire-Preventing Coatings](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nanoscale-coating.md) - [Advanced Self-Cleaning Sheets](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/selfcleaning-sheets.md) - [Ultra-Thin Solar Panel Coatings](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/solar-panel-2.md) - [Self-Cleaning Glass Bottles](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/self-cleaning-glass.md) - [Eco-Friendly Fashion Color Dyes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cone-denim-1.md) - [Grown Microbial-Woven Fabrics](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/compostable-fabric.md) - [Durable Cotton-Enhancing Products](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cottonworks.md)