Abstract: A process for imparting antimicrobial properties to textile fabrics by applying an antimicrobial substance to the fibers from which the textile is woven, knit or constructed. Preferably the antimicrobial substance is applied, prior to weaving, to warp yarns on a slasher or warper or similar coating or finish application device before the warp ends are rolled up onto a loom or section beam. The warp yarns are then woven with fill yarns, not treated with the antimicrobial, into a cloth which is then sold in the loom state or subjected to subsequent finishing. A preferred cloth end use is mattress ticking.