Bacillus subtilis is the name of the powerful cleaning bacteria used in Pure Effect’s cleaning products. To us, B. subtilis is a loyal and reliable workhorse - the foundation of our biotechnological solution. This particular bacterium has an unmatched ability to break down dirt and eliminate odors by rapidly and efficiently decomposing and consuming organic material. B. subtilis has also been extensively studied and proven harmless to humans, animals, and the environment. In fact, it is one of the most researched organisms in biological science.
Intensive research and rapid technological advancements have brought us to a point where we can, for the first time, harness the game-changing potential of microorganisms. Inside bacterial cells, an immense variety of enzymes, vitamins, and proteins are produced - substances that can be utilized in everything from medicine, biological pesticides, dietary supplements, antibiotics, and probiotics to thickeners, cleaning agents, and even self-healing concrete. We have domesticated Bacillus subtilis - and modern humans have gained a new, invisible best friend. Read more.Bacillus subtilis, a Swiss Army Knife in Science and Biotechnology.
The Future of Environmental Technology Lies in Living Cells
Microorganisms have had billions of years to refine their biochemical tools, constantly adapting to their harsh surroundings. They are experts at making the most of the materials around them. As soon as something can serve as an energy source or building block, microorganisms develop methods to break it down, transform it, and extract its components. Life finds a way.
As a result, Earth’s smallest life forms have evolved astonishing capabilities. What a microorganism can produce in a single energy-efficient step - thanks to a specialized enzyme - often requires multiple steps, energy input, and a complex chemical process with environmentally harmful byproducts when done through traditional chemistry. Transitioning to more sustainable methods is not only rational but necessary. The key is to find the right organism with the right genes for the intended application.
Nature as a Problem-Solver
So, where does Bacillus subtilis come from? Where does this remarkable bacterium naturally exist? The answer: everywhere. B. subtilis is a common soil bacterium found all around us. It just happens to be highly efficient, surprisingly versatile, and responsive to scientific guidance.
It grows quickly, is robust and resilient, and releases large amounts of valuable biomolecules into its growth medium. This unique combination of traits has made it a true multi-tool with an ever-expanding range of applications.
Originally, however, it thrives in soil, sediments, and even the intestinal tract, living as an aerobic (oxygen-tolerant), spore-forming, Gram-positive rod bacterium specialized in breaking down organic material. To do so, it produces enzymes such as proteases, lipases, amylases, and cellulases—enzymes that break down proteins, fats, and starches, which are the most common types of stains found on clothing and textiles.
From Soil Samples to Biotechnological Cleaning
Bacillus subtilis is present in soil samples collected from forests and natural environments. These bacteria are then cultivated in bioreactors—a controlled setting where they multiply, are tested, and go through a selection process based on the desired traits. Suitable candidates are isolated, and different forms of nutrients are supplied to encourage the bacteria to produce various biochemicals, such as enzymes and surfactants, which enhance the cleaning power of our products.
Because B. subtilis forms spores, the living bacteria can enter a dormant state and remain inactive for long periods. When added to Pure Effect’s products, they are in their spore form, having been purified from metabolites. These spores are highly resilient, protecting the bacteria until environmental conditions become favorable. This occurs, for example, when clothes are treated with Pure Effect and hung up. The bacteria awaken as they suddenly have access to oxygen, nutrients, and moisture.
At comfortable room temperature, they reach peak activity within a few hours. Our bacteria then consume the organic material, breaking it down into odorless components.
Read more about how our workhorse, B. subtilis, benefits us in the article Odor-Removal - How Does It Work?