Sustainable antibacterial finishing of cotton fabrics using leaves extract from Rumex steudelii Hochst

Cotton fabrics are frequently used in clothing, medical textiles, and home furnishing applications; however, they are prone to bacterial development. To enhance the antimicrobial properties of cotton fabric, this study investigates the use of extracts from the leaves of Rumex steudelii Hochst as a natural antibacterial agent. The bioactive components were extracted by using Aqueous extraction method, with optimal conditions achieved at 1 g of leaf powder in 15 mL of water at 90 °C for 50 min, Yielding a 56.6% extract. The extract was then applied to the cotton fabric using the Pad-Dry-Cure method. The treated fabrics demonstrated significantly higher antibacterial activity compared to untreated controls. Untreated cotton fabric showed a 20 mm zone of inhibition against both Gram-positive S. aureus and Gram-negative E. coli. In contrast, the treated fabrics exhibited larger zones of inhibition after five wash cycles, measuring 31 mm for S. aureus and 32 mm for E. coli. Notably, even after ten wash cycles, the treated fabrics maintained substantial antibacterial activity, with zones of 22.5 mm and 23.5 mm for S. aureus and E. coli, respectively. These results highlight the effectiveness of Rumex steudelii Hochst leaf extracts in providing durable antibacterial properties to cotton textiles. Additionally, the study underscores the potential of these extracts to enhance the overall durability of cotton fabrics against microbial challenges. The findings suggest that incorporating natural extracts not only boosts antibacterial capabilities but also promotes the sustainability of textile treatments. Future research will explore the molecular mechanisms behind the antibacterial action and assess the long-term effects on fabric integrity. This eco-friendly approach addresses both health and environmental concerns, offering a viable alternative to synthetic antibacterial agents in the textile industry. The long-lasting antibacterial activity of the treated cotton materials can significantly improve against microbial contamination in various settings.